If you’re self-publishing or just need another set of eyes on your writing before you send it off to an agent, hiring an editor is a major step toward making sure your manuscript is ready for publication. It can also be quite expensive depending on the type of editorial service you need—not to mention a significant time commitment for both you and your editor. So how do you find the right fit? Read on for some questions you’ll want to ask a potential editor to make sure you are both on the same page—no pun intended!

What services do you offer?
First, do some research and try to pin down what type of editing services you need—from a light copyedit to a more robust developmental edit, there are many choices out there, and you should make sure the editor you’re considering offers exactly what you want.

How much will an editing service cost?
Most writers include a professional editor as part of their publishing budget. First, make sure your idea of what you can pay is realistic. Next, see if your potential editor is within your price range.

Does that price include multiple revisions?
I once had a client who received her edits, made changes, then asked me to edit her book all over again (from the beginning!) to make sure she incorporated the changes correctly and didn’t accidentally insert new mistakes into the copy—all as part of my original fee. The problem is, many editors don’t automatically account for multiple revisions in their initial price quote. If that’s something you know you’re going to want, state that up front so your potential editor can give you a more accurate price.

What else have you edited?
If you’ve written a romance novel, you might not want to hire an editor who’s known for their work on nonfiction history books. While an editor might be competent regardless of the genre, you may feel more comfortable—and get more genre-specific advice—sticking to someone who has experience in your subject matter.

What are your qualifications?
Even freelance editors who are just starting out in the industry will likely have some sort of editing experience—whether it’s doctoral theses, business reports, children’s books, or scientific essays, find out how they got their feet wet and (for more seasoned editors) what they specialize in. As for the editor’s education, you’ll likely want to look for someone with a background in English literature, creative writing, or journalism.

How do you prefer to communicate?
Everyone’s got their own preferred communication style, and it’s always helpful when you and your editor share the same one. While many editors communicate strictly via email, others are more than happy to speak on the phone or via a video call to hash out what you’re looking for and/or to discuss their edits later on.

Are you available for questions after the edit is completed?
This is a big one! You’ll likely have some questions when the edit is over, and some editors allot more time than others for follow-up queries. Establish exactly how long you’ll have to submit questions after the edit, or check if they provide a postedit session in which you can ask your questions during a scheduled time.

What format should my manuscript be in?
Most editors are perfectly fine with Microsoft Word, but others prefer PDFs or even Google Docs. It’s always a good idea to check in with what your potential editor is most familiar with, and if it’s not what you usually use, make sure they are OK switching to a different format.

What tools do I need to use to work with you?
This question goes hand in hand with the previous one. It’s always good to know up front if you need to download a different program to see the editor’s changes or whether what you have on hand will work.

What is your average turnaround time?
Editing, especially more in-depth developmental or content editing, takes time. I once had a client who wanted a content edit for a two-hundred-page memoir finished in one week. Don’t be like that client. Instead, recognize that your potential editor is probably already juggling multiple projects and will, if hired, set aside the appropriate amount of time for your project that works for their schedule and that allows enough time to properly and thoroughly perform the edits for which you are paying. A rushed edit will most likely not be a good edit, and then no one is happy.

Do you also write pitch letters and/or help find an agent?
Some professional editors have contacts in the publishing world and help put their clients in touch with literary agents. Others may write pitch letters that clients can send to various publishing houses if they’re looking to get their manuscript picked up the traditional way. Other editors just stick to editing. First figure out what you want out of your editor, then make sure it’s something they are willing and able to do.

What’s your editing style?
Just as every writer is different, so is every editor. Some are more restrained, only making and suggesting changes that they feel are absolutely necessary. Others take a more heavy-handed approach, filling the margins of manuscript pages with every little idea for improvement. And while editors should maintain professionalism at all times, some are more polite about their feedback than others. Think carefully about your own personality and your ability to take constructive feedback, and be sure your editor’s approach aligns.

Andrea Moran lives outside of Nashville with her husband and two kids. She’s a professional copywriter and editor who loves all things books. Find her on LinkedIn.