Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much do you charge?
A: Our hourly rates generally run from $45 to $65, depending on the type of job: the more complex, creative, or sensitive the work, the higher the rate. If you shop around you'll find that these rates are very competitive.
After we've discussed your project with you, we'll generally provide you with a flat-fee quote for the whole job. You can also hire us on a per-page or per-hour basis, if you prefer. The total cost for your project will naturally depend on the total number of words. It will also depend on the depth of our involvement: writing something from scratch takes more time per page, and is more demanding work, than copy editing, for example.
For more information about fees charged by editors and writers, check out this summary at www.writers.ca/whattopay.htm provided by the Professional Writers Association of Canada, or contact the Editors' Association of Canada at www.editors.ca.
Q: My project is on an incredibly tight deadline. Are you OK with that?
A: Yes. We can usually accommodate tight deadlines, and can often do same-day or overnight jobs. Depending on what's involved, we may charge a higher rate for rush jobs.
Q: My computer fixes spelling and grammar mistakes. I'm also a university graduate. Why would I need to pay an editor to look over my stuff?
A: Any document—even one written by a professional editor—can benefit from an extra edit. A second pair of eyes will see things you don't see, and can be the difference between a work that is more or less adequate and a work that really shines. Check out five good reasons to hire an editor.
Q: I'd be most comfortable working entirely by email. Can you do that?
A: Absolutely. We're happy to meet in person, by phone, or by email—or in any combination of the above.
Q: What should I expect, if I choose to work with you?
A: Every project is different, and we tailor our approach to suit your needs and the scope of the assignment.
Certain things never change, however. We'll listen closely to you as you describe your project and your goals. We'll provide you with a detailed, no-obligation quote. We'll bring all our energy and expertise to your project. We'll be in touch throughout, to answer your questions and address your concerns. And we'll finish the job on budget and on time.
Contact us to find out more.
Q: Editors have a bit of a reputation for being fault-finding and grouchy. Are you going to say mean things about my manuscript?
A: No! We're both writers as well as editors, so we know what it's like to face criticism. We'll be gentle with you, but we'll always be honest as well.
Q: My text is really short—just a few words, in fact. Can you work with that?
A: Yes. Even the smallest document can benefit from careful editing. We can help you with your slogan, your classified ad, or even the title of your book.
Q: My manuscript is enormous—thousands and thousands of pages. Can you work with that?
A: Yes. We love the long-term relationship of a big project, and have the kind of wide-angle vision that's necessary to see a work like this to completion.
Q: My project contains information of a sensitive nature. Can I trust you to be completely discreet?
A: Of course. We'll happily sign a non-disclosure agreement if you like. In general, we make it a habit not to discuss the details of our clients' projects with anyone at all, ever.
Q: Can you help me with my
- newspaper article?
- online column?
- screenplay?
- poetry?
- résumé?
- sales pitch?
- FAQ page?
A: Absolutely! Bring it on.
Q: Can you write my term paper for me?
A: No; sorry. (Which is too bad, because we'd probably really enjoy it.)
Q: Can you edit my thesis?
A: Yes, but there are certain guidelines we are bound to follow. You can read about them here: http://www.editors.ca/hire/theses.html
Q: Do you do pro bono work?
A: Like anyone else, we have mouths to feed and bills to pay, so we need to charge our standard rates as much of the time as possible. However, if your project is interesting to us and you can demonstrate real financial need, we might offer you a discount and/or accept "in kind" payment for a portion of the fees. We'll certainly consider any serious offer.
Q: Would you consider working on commission?
A: Maybe, if your book seems like a real blockbuster. We're more likely to consider working on an advance-plus-commission basis than for commission alone.
