How did you go about selecting your editor, Paul? And what were your requirements and expectations?
I'd be interested to hear because I just read today's excellent blog from Rhadin (
http://americaneditor.wordpress.com/...stack-problem/) in which he ponders this thread and -- as I often have -- wonders how a 'professional' editor might effectively offer meaningful evidence of expertise in advance of actually doing a job.
In Rhadin's case, he's highly specialised in a specific field and, no doubt, peer recommendation made by the prefessionals in that field who have employed his service will count for much.
But when it comes to general fiction editing, who do you turn to for independent and meaningful review of an editor's work?
To take any recommendation seriously, I'd guess the referee would have to be willing produce before-and-after versions of a work. Even then, though, there would be open questions about working protocols, etc.
Within the business, word gets around. One pro can identify another at 100 paces and effectively assess his value over time through exposure to his/her work, personal contact, perhaps co-working experience, or even on the grapvine. But when you're on the outside looking in, where do you direct your eye for freelance editorial assistance?
Cheers. Neil
PS: Sorry Richard. I notice our posts crossed in the mail. N