When you’re at a writers’ conference, one of the best ways to learn what editors or literary agents want is to attend open forum-type sessions where they answer questions. We had a few opportunities at the Philadelphia Conference to sit in on panel discussions with literary agents, magazine editors, and book editors.
During one of the sessions, book editors were asked to share their greatest struggle in working with writers. Here’s a sampling of responses from the 10 editors present:
- Working with unteachable writers. Every writer should always be willing to take constructive comments and learn how to become better.
- Not being clear on communication. Don’t read too much into emails – approach the other person directly if you think there might be misunderstandings.
- Finding the 40-45,000 word book desperately struggling to get out of an 80,000 word manuscript.
- Ministering to a writer with a fragile ego. Criticism is meant to make you better at what you’re doing, but editors have to share comments delicately.
- Receiving material from an author who isn’t as prepared as he or she should be. Really check your research and other information for factual errors before submitting to an editor.
- Receiving a book proposal that says the project is aimed for “everybody.” Take the time to shift from writer to reader to know who the manuscript is really for.
- Intellectual and spiritual arrogance – a writer who doesn’t allow for teachability or improvement. Recognize that you aren’t perfect … yet. 🙂
- Being a dream slayer. An editor so wants you to be good – be the best you can before submitting.
- Not following submission guidelines. The material might be good, but the editor will pass on it because it doesn’t fit their guidelines.
- Seeing authors who want to be published so desperately that they follow the bandwagon instead of their passion.
- Dealing with the “new mommy” mentality. Becoming published and spreading the word about a book is a lot more work than some authors expect. Some authors just want to see their name on the cover and aren’t committed for the long haul, so their “baby” never makes it past the crib.
So, what do you writers/authors think about these? Do any of the comments surprise you? Learning new things every day …
Such perfect hits, Leigh. Even as I court another agent, I mentally did the check list with this list. One thing I know I want from an agent/publisher is concrete ways to be better. It’s rare to find a professional who can take the time to be your champion and your cheerleader.
You’re exactly right! And you’ve definitely found a gold mine when you’re in a room full of editors who will tell you exactly what they’re looking for and how you can be a better writer/publishing partner for them. People had so many questions that they actually held the editor panels on 2 days!