How Editors Can Protect Themselves from Authors
A Guide to Staying Professional
I have been on both sides of this relationship and am well aware of what it is like to work with an abrasive editor and an abusive writer. You can’t get away from it, people will fall prey to their own insecurities and take it out on each other.
But don’t worry, there are ways to get around this.
The relationship between an author and an editor is essential for producing polished and engaging work. Editors are key in refining a manuscript, offering suggestions, and fixing errors, but this relationship can sometimes become strained. Some authors, feeling vulnerable or defensive, may even attempt to demonize the editor.
As an editor, it's vital to protect yourself professionally by maintaining clear documentation and transparent communication. This blog will guide you on how to safeguard yourself against potential conflict with authors, ensuring your reputation stays intact.
Why Some Authors May Demonize Editors
Before diving into protection strategies, it's important to understand why some authors might portray editors negatively. Here are a few reasons:
Defensiveness: Authors may reject feedback, feeling their work is being unfairly critiqued.
Insecurity: Authors unsure of their own abilities may project their fears onto the editor, blaming them for any negative feedback.
Control: Some writers resist any changes, viewing edits as a threat to their creative vision.
Misunderstanding: Authors who don't fully grasp the editor's role may take suggestions as personal attacks.
While most author-editor relationships are positive, these issues can sometimes lead to friction or accusations.
The Importance of Protection as an Editor
To protect yourself from potential fallout, you must maintain a professional demeanor and keep thorough records of all interactions. Documentation is your best defense if an author tries to misrepresent your work or shift the blame.
9 Strategies to Protect Yourself from Author Conflict
1. Maintain Professional, Clear Communication
Keep emails as your primary communication tool. Written correspondence provides a verifiable record of discussions, agreements, and suggestions.
Summarize key points from calls or meetings in follow-up emails. This ensures clarity and provides documentation of what was discussed.
2. Document Everything via Email
Use email for important conversations. Whether it’s project updates, suggested edits, or final approvals, having a written record is crucial.
Keep a version history of the manuscript. This allows you to track every stage of the editing process, preventing any claims that changes were made without consent.
3. Use Redlining or Track Changes for Transparency
Track every change. Use Microsoft Word’s “track changes” or Google Docs’ “suggestion mode” to ensure transparency in your edits.
Let the author accept or reject changes. This allows them to retain control, while you maintain a record of what changes were suggested and which were implemented.
4. Set Clear Boundaries with a Contract
Define your role and scope. Whether you're doing developmental, line, or copyediting, ensure the author knows exactly what to expect.
Outline deadlines, fees, and revision policies upfront. This reduces the likelihood of confusion or disagreements later on.
5. Deflect Personal Criticism with Professionalism
Stay calm if an author becomes confrontational. Keep the focus on the manuscript, not personal attacks.
Redirect the conversation to the work. For example, “Let’s review the suggestions together to ensure they align with your vision.”
6. Respect the Author’s Voice, But Stand Your Ground
Explain why changes are needed. Clarify how your edits enhance the manuscript’s clarity, flow, or grammar.
Be flexible on style preferences, but firm on errors. If the author insists on keeping certain problematic elements, document your suggestions to avoid blame for unresolved issues.
7. Have a Conflict Resolution Plan
Include a conflict resolution clause in your contract. Whether it’s mediation or third-party review, outlining this process prevents escalation.
Refer to the contract when disputes arise. Having a written agreement helps clarify expectations and avoids emotional arguments.
8. Keep Professional Boundaries
Separate personal and professional relationships. While it’s easy to develop close working relationships, keep editorial decisions focused on the manuscript.
Avoid personal favors. Stick to the agreed-upon scope of work to avoid future conflicts.
9. Limit Social Media Interactions
Don’t engage in public disputes. If an author posts negative comments, avoid responding publicly. Use email or private communication to resolve the issue.
Promote yourself professionally, not personally. Keep social media interactions strictly professional to prevent misunderstandings.
Final Thoughts
Editing is a rewarding but sometimes tricky job. By following these strategies—documenting everything, using clear communication, and maintaining professional boundaries—you can protect yourself from potential fallout or attempts to demonize your work.
Staying transparent and professional is key to safeguarding your reputation and maintaining healthy author relationships.
By following these tips, editors can confidently navigate the complex relationship with authors while protecting their professional integrity. Remember, clear communication and thorough documentation are your best defenses in any editorial situation.