Are you published?
If the answer is no, then leave. Self-publishing is okay, if they can supply some good reviews, and have sold a few hundred copies. Traditional publishing has more prestige, but does not hold any more weight than e publishing or self-publishing. The traditional published book could have bombed, while an self-published book could win national awards and earn the author several hundred dollars a month.
And, an industry norm is, you are not considered professional until you have three books published. Here is the way to tell if a book is ‘really’ published. It has national distribution, an ISBN number, is not free, and is available too bookstores. The self-published book may not be in bookstores, because they want huge discounts, and return most of the unsold books for a full refund. However, it should be possible for a bookstore to order a copy of the book wholesale.
How long have you been in business?
This is just a teaser. It doesn’t matter how long a coach or editor has been in business. I also warn writers to stay away from editors/coaches who put too much emphasis on their own writing. Editing is not about the editor, it is about the writer. A writer can make $50 000.00 a year on their own writing, and still be a poor editor.
Do not ask for references or testimonials; ask for a list of published titles and clients.
Testimonials can be shared in exchange for services. They can be written as part of a marketing campaign. Nothing is as valuable as reading a book the editor already worked on.
Ask if they have a base fee for a trial.
Most editors and coaches are willing to invest a few hours of work to test the relationship between you and them.
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