The FAQ Files: Should I Hire a Professional Editor?

A behind-the-scenes look at what an editor actually does, and how to know when it’s time to bring one in.

You’ve done the hard part - you’ve written the thing. Whether it’s a novel, a memoir, a reflective essay, or a website launch, the work is sitting there in front of you. You’re proud of it… mostly. But a little voice is whispering, “Is it clear? Is it too long? Does it make sense to anyone else?”

That’s where I come in.

As a professional editor, I help people find clarity and confidence in their writing: not by rewriting it in my voice, but by helping your voice come through more clearly. If you’ve ever wondered whether hiring an editor is necessary, useful, or “worth it,” this post is here to offer some thoughtful answers.

What Does a Professional Editor Actually Do?

Let’s break the myth: I’m not here to judge or correct you. My job is to support your writing: whether that’s smoothing out grammar, untangling tricky sentences, or helping your message land more clearly.

Depending on what your writing needs, I can offer:

Manuscript Critique: a big-picture assessment of your work-in-progress, offering feedback on structure, pacing, character development, narrative voice, and overall coherence. Ideal for early drafts that need a thoughtful, constructive read before editing begins.

Structural support: if a section feels clunky or unclear, I’ll help you shape it so the ideas land with clarity, rhythm, and intent.

Copy editing: a deeper, line-level clean that improves grammar, flow, consistency, and tone, all without flattening your voice.

Proofreading: a final polish to catch typos, punctuation slips, and formatting inconsistencies before submission or publication.

Tone and sensitivity checking: ensuring your words sound like you and resonate with your intended audience, whatever your style or subject matter.

Behind it all is one simple aim: to make your writing stronger, clearer, and unmistakably yours.

Editing isn’t about red pens and judgement; it’s a conversation built on trust.

When Should You Consider Hiring an Editor?

You don’t always need an editor, but there are key moments where one can make all the difference:

When you’ve been staring at it too long. Editing your own writing is like cutting your own hair: it’s possible, but you’ll miss things.

When there’s a lot at risk. Think manuscripts, revisions, or submissions. A second set of eyes helps you spot what you can’t see alone.

When you want to sound like you, but stronger. A good editor enhances your voice, rather than replacing it.

If you’re unsure, ask yourself: “Would I feel more confident sending this out if someone else had reviewed it?”

But Can’t I Just Use AI or Grammarly?

Yes, you can, and in many cases, they’re very helpful tools.

But, it’s important to understand that software can’t understand nuance, so it’s limited in the assistance it can provide. It won’t know your audience. It can’t intuit whether your tone sounds slightly off or your message feels muddled.

An editor offers something no app or AI programme can: human insight. We see what’s between the lines. We understand what your reader needs, and where you might be underselling yourself.

Think of Grammarly as your spellcheck. Think of a human editor as your collaborator.

How Do I Know If You’re the Right Editor?

This part’s important. Editing is a personal process; one built on trust. You deserve someone who respects your voice, your vision, and your goals. That’s my approach.

I work gently but thoroughly. I’ll always explain why I’ve made a suggestion. And I’ll listen, carefully, to what you want to say. I’m here to support your work, not to change it beyond recognition.

(Also: if you’re a little shy or unsure about sharing your writing, that’s okay. I understand — I’m quietly spoken too, and you’re in safe hands.)

Whether you’re brainstorming, revising, or just feeling stuck, your editor can help clarify the path forward.

It’s Your Work - Let’s Help It Shine

Hiring an editor doesn’t mean you’ve done something wrong. It means you care about clarity, technique, and connection. It’s a sign that you care deeply about putting your best work forward.

If you’re curious, you don’t need to jump in blindly. I offer a free 500-word sample edit, so you can see exactly how I work before committing to anything.

Wondering whether your writing could use a second set of eyes?

Let’s talk. I’ll take care of your words like they’re my own - and help you feel proud of what you’ve created.