How to Become a Developmental Editor (Wordsmith Your Way Up!)

If you’ve ever dreamed of shaping manuscripts into published masterpieces or wondered what it takes to become a developmental editor, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll explore the EXACT steps you need to take to launch your career as a developmental editor. We’ll discuss:

The skills you need.
The education that can assist you in your journey.
How to secure your first job as a developmental editor.

So, whether you’re an aspiring editor or a book-loving individual looking to transform your passion into a career, stay tuned.

We’re about to unravel the blueprint to become a developmental editor.

Let’s get started!

Contents show

Steps to Become a Developmental Editor

Step 1: Understand the Role and Industry

The first step towards becoming a Developmental Editor is understanding the role and the publishing industry as a whole.

Developmental editors are responsible for the big-picture aspects of editing, including structuring the content, clarifying the argument, and ensuring consistency in the tone and style.

They work closely with the author throughout the writing process to bring out the best in their manuscript.

It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the publishing cycle, which includes stages such as acquisition, contract negotiation, editing, design, production, marketing, and distribution.

Get to know the different types of editing, such as copy-editing and proofreading, as well as the specific role of a developmental editor in this process.

Read widely and critically to understand different genres and writing styles.

Look at how books are structured, how arguments are developed, and how language is used to engage the reader.

This will help you develop the eye for detail that is crucial in this role.

Consider taking a course or attending a workshop in editing or publishing to gain an in-depth understanding of the industry.

You can also look for internships or entry-level jobs in publishing houses to gain hands-on experience.

Networking with professionals in the industry can provide valuable insights and potential job opportunities.

Remember, a successful developmental editor needs to have a love for language, an eye for detail, excellent communication skills, and a high degree of patience and empathy to work collaboratively with authors.

Step 2: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in English or Related Field

To pursue a career as a developmental editor, obtaining a bachelor’s degree is a crucial step.

Most professionals in this field have a bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, Communications, or a related field.

These degree programs provide foundational knowledge in language structure, creative writing, composition, and literature that will be invaluable in the editing process.

During your undergraduate studies, you should take courses that hone your grammar, spelling, punctuation, and usage skills.

You can also benefit from classes that focus on creative writing, critical reading, and understanding of narrative structures.

Such courses will help you develop the ability to analyze text for clarity, consistency, and overall effectiveness in communicating the intended message.

Consider choosing coursework or projects that involve heavy editing and proofreading, as these will give you practical experience.

You might also want to explore opportunities for internships or part-time jobs in publishing houses, newspapers, or online publications to gain practical experience in the field.

Remember, a developmental editor’s role goes beyond basic proofreading.

You will be expected to understand the author’s vision and help them enhance their work without losing their unique voice.

Therefore, gaining a sound educational background is a critical step towards this career.

Step 3: Gain Experience in Writing and Editing

As a developmental editor, you will need to acquire a strong background in writing and editing.

This will equip you with the necessary skills to help writers improve the structure and content of their work.

It is recommended to start as a writer or an editor, to fully understand the creative process behind producing a piece of content.

You can gain experience by writing your own pieces or editing for local newspapers, school publications, blogs, or online platforms.

Take any opportunity to write or edit, whether it is a school paper, company newsletter, or personal blog.

Each experience, no matter how small it may seem, will contribute to your skill set.

Consider seeking internships or entry-level jobs at publishing companies, literary agencies, or media outlets.

These opportunities will give you a firsthand experience of the publishing industry.

It can also be beneficial to network with professionals in the field, as they can provide valuable advice and potentially job opportunities.

Remember, as a developmental editor, your goal is not just to correct grammar and punctuation errors.

Instead, you should be able to analyze a piece of writing, identify areas of improvement in the structure and content, and provide constructive feedback to the writer.

Therefore, gaining substantial experience in writing and editing is a crucial step in your career as a developmental editor.

Step 4: Familiarize Yourself with Different Styles of Writing

As you embark on your career as a developmental editor, it’s crucial to expose yourself to various styles of writing.

These could include different genres, such as fiction, non-fiction, academic articles, business reports, journalistic writing, and creative writing, among others.

This broad exposure will help you understand the unique needs of each type of writing and how to best edit them.

Additionally, it’s equally important to understand various writing style guides.

These are sets of standards for writing and designing content, and they include guides like the Chicago Manual of Style, the Associated Press (AP) Stylebook, and the Modern Language Association (MLA) Handbook.

Knowing these style guides helps ensure that the content you edit is consistent and follows a recognized standard.

If you’re working on a specific type of publication, such as a scientific journal or a technical manual, you should also familiarize yourself with the specific style guides and writing conventions used in these fields.

By immersing yourself in different styles of writing and understanding their respective guidelines, you’ll be better equipped to help authors refine their content and bring their manuscripts to the highest possible standard.

Step 5: Learn to Use Editing Tools and Software

As a developmental editor, mastering the use of editing tools and software is a crucial step in your career journey.

The industry often utilizes specific programs to streamline the editing process and ensure a high-quality result.

Knowledge of these tools will not only make your job easier but also more efficient and accurate.

Adobe Acrobat Reader is a popular choice for viewing and commenting on PDF documents, enabling editors to provide detailed feedback to authors.

Microsoft Word also has a robust Track Changes feature used extensively in the editing industry to mark-up changes and add comments.

Moreover, consider learning to use professional editing software like Adobe InCopy or Final Draft.

These applications offer advanced editing features that are beneficial for handling large manuscripts or complex editing tasks.

In addition to the above, familiarity with content management systems such as WordPress, Joomla, or Drupal can be beneficial if your role involves online publishing.

Consider taking online courses or attending workshops to become proficient in these tools.

Remember, as technology continues to evolve, the tools and software used in the industry will also change.

Therefore, continuing education and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and developments is essential for a developmental editor.

Step 6: Volunteer or Intern at a Publishing Company or Media Outlet

If you’re interested in becoming a developmental editor, gaining practical experience is crucial.

One of the best ways to do this is by volunteering or interning at a publishing company or media outlet.

This will not only help you understand the daily operations of a publishing house but also give you the opportunity to learn about various roles in the editorial department.

During your volunteering or internship period, make an effort to learn about the publishing process, from manuscript submission to print.

This includes the roles of copy editors, proofreaders, design teams, and marketing teams.

Understanding these roles and how they interact with each other is valuable for a developmental editor, as they often work closely with these teams.

Additionally, this experience will give you the opportunity to build relationships with professionals in the industry.

Networking is a significant part of any career, including developmental editing.

The connections you make during this time may lead to job opportunities in the future.

Lastly, during your time volunteering or interning, focus on developing your editorial skills.

This includes refining your ability to identify issues in a manuscript, suggesting potential improvements, and providing constructive feedback to authors.

The more you practice these skills, the better prepared you’ll be for a career as a developmental editor.

Step 7: Network with Authors, Publishers, and Other Editors

As a developmental editor, making connections within the publishing industry is a crucial step in your career development.

Networking with authors, other editors, and publishers can open up opportunities for collaborations, potential jobs, and invaluable advice from seasoned professionals.

Attend industry events, like book fairs, publishing seminars, and writer’s workshops, to meet potential collaborators and expand your industry knowledge.

You can also join professional organizations such as the Editorial Freelancers Association, American Society of Journalists and Authors, or the Society for Editors and Proofreaders.

These organizations can provide networking opportunities and resources to help you stay up-to-date with industry trends.

Online platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and even specialized forums for writers and editors, can also be useful for networking.

They enable you to connect with like-minded professionals across the globe, share experiences, ask for advice and keep abreast of job opportunities.

Remember to foster these relationships, not just for immediate opportunities, but also for long term industry involvement.

It’s not just about who you know, but who knows you, trusts your work, and respects your professionalism.

Step 8: Get Certified as an Editor (Optional)

Getting certified as an editor is not a mandatory step in becoming a developmental editor, but it can provide you with additional credibility and may enhance your opportunities.

The American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA), the American Society of Newspaper Editors (ASNE), and the Board of Editors in the Life Sciences (BELS) offer recognized certification programs, among others.

Each certification program has its own set of requirements.

Typically, you may need to pass an examination that tests your knowledge of the English language, grammar, and ethical editing practices.

Some programs may require you to have a certain amount of professional experience as an editor before you can apply for certification.

Earning a certification also allows you to demonstrate a commitment to the profession and can make you more attractive to potential employers or clients.

It’s a way to stand out in the competitive field of editing.

Notably, becoming certified often provides access to a network of professionals, which can be instrumental in gaining new job opportunities or learning about the latest trends in the field.

Step 9: Keep Up with Trends in Literature and Publishing

Staying current with the latest trends in literature and publishing is crucial for a Developmental Editor.

This includes understanding what themes or styles are popular in different genres, keeping up to date with changes in publishing technology, and being aware of new marketing and distribution channels.

One way to stay informed about the latest trends is to regularly read industry blogs, subscribe to relevant newsletters, and follow prominent authors, editors and publishers on social media.

It’s also beneficial to attend industry events such as book fairs, writing workshops, and literary conferences where you can network with other professionals and gain insights into current trends and future predictions.

Another way to stay updated is by reading widely across genres and formats.

This not only helps you understand current literary trends, but also expands your skill set and makes you a more versatile editor.

Remember, the publishing industry is constantly evolving, and to be a successful Developmental Editor, you must be willing to evolve with it.

This means continually learning, adapting, and expanding your knowledge base.

This will not only make you a better editor but will also open up more job opportunities and career growth.

Step 10: Apply for Developmental Editor Positions

After you’ve honed your skills, gained experience, and built up your portfolio, the next step is to start applying for developmental editor positions.

You can find these job opportunities on various platforms such as LinkedIn, Indeed, and company career pages.

Before you start applying, make sure your resume is up-to-date, highlighting your experience in developmental editing and any relevant education or certifications.

Also, consider writing a custom cover letter for each job application to show your interest in the role and how your skills align with the company’s needs.

As a developmental editor, you may also want to showcase your portfolio to potential employers.

This can include excerpts from books or articles you’ve edited, before and after editing samples, or testimonials from authors you’ve worked with.

Networking can also be an integral part of the job application process.

Attend industry events, join online editor forums, and connect with professionals in the field to learn about job opportunities and stay updated on industry trends.

Lastly, prepare for job interviews by researching common interview questions for developmental editors, and practice your answers.

Show how your editing approach aligns with the needs of the company and the target audience.

Remember to follow up after interviews with a thank-you note to leave a lasting impression.

Always be patient, persistent and positive as job hunting can take time, but with the right skills and approach, you will find the perfect developmental editor role.

Step 11: Continue Learning and Developing Your Skills

In the ever-evolving field of publishing and editing, it’s crucial for a Developmental Editor to continue learning and developing their skills.

This could be achieved by attending workshops, seminars and conferences related to publishing, writing and editing.

The objective is to keep up with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in the industry.

You could also consider joining professional organizations such as the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) or American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA).

These associations often provide resources, networking opportunities, and continued education options for their members.

Subscribing to industry-related publications, blogs, or online forums can also provide valuable insights and updates.

Similarly, expanding your knowledge in the specific genre you’re working on can be beneficial.

For instance, if you’re editing science fiction novels, it would be advantageous to read widely within the genre to understand its conventions and trends.

Lastly, practicing your craft is another important aspect of skill development.

Regularly editing different types of content, participating in writing groups, or even doing some writing of your own can help refine your ability to spot and enhance potential in a manuscript.

Remember, as a Developmental Editor, your role is not just about correcting grammar or punctuation, but also about shaping the content in a way that it resonates with the target audience.

Therefore, honing your understanding of reader expectations and market trends is as important as improving your technical editing skills.

Step 12: Consider Freelance Developmental Editing.

As you continue to progress in your career as a developmental editor, you might want to consider venturing into freelance developmental editing.

This pathway offers greater flexibility in terms of working hours and choice of projects, but it also demands self-discipline, marketing skills, and the ability to handle the administrative side of running a business.

To start as a freelance developmental editor, you need to build a strong portfolio that showcases your ability to improve manuscripts and work with authors.

You can begin by taking on small projects, gradually working your way up to more complex and higher-paying assignments.

Remember to network with industry professionals, writers, and other freelancers.

Joining professional organizations such as the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) can provide valuable resources and opportunities for finding work.

Freelancing also allows you to specialize in a specific genre or type of writing, such as fiction, non-fiction, academic, or business writing.

This can be rewarding and allow you to become an expert in your chosen niche.

However, be aware that freelancing also comes with challenges, including finding and retaining clients, managing finances, and working alone.

It’s important to weigh these factors before deciding if freelancing is the right path for you.

Developmental Editor Roles and Responsibilities

A Developmental Editor helps authors shape and develop their manuscript in terms of structure, content, and style.

They play a crucial role in ensuring that the work is coherent, engaging, and suitable for the target audience.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

Manuscript Development

Guide authors in planning and executing their manuscript.
Work with authors to develop content, structure, and style of the manuscript.
Ensure the manuscript aligns with the target audience and publishing standards.

Editing

Edit the manuscript for clarity, coherence, and consistency.
Suggest changes in the plot, characters, and structure if necessary.
Review and revise the manuscript multiple times as it evolves.

Feedback and Collaboration

Provide constructive feedback to authors.
Collaborate with authors to improve and refine their work.
Communicate effectively with authors to ensure they understand and incorporate feedback.

Project Management

Manage multiple editing projects simultaneously.
Coordinate with other editorial staff, designers, and publishers as necessary.
Ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.

Quality Assurance

Ensure the manuscript meets the highest quality standards.
Check for factual accuracy and logical consistency.
Oversee the proofreading and copy-editing processes.

Market Research

Research and understand market trends and audience preferences.
Ensure the manuscript meets market needs and has commercial potential.

Networking

Build and maintain relationships with authors, publishers, and literary agents.
Stay updated with latest industry trends and changes.

Continuous Learning

Keep up-to-date with changes in the publishing industry and editing practices.
Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences to improve skills and knowledge.

What Does a Developmental Editor Do?

Developmental Editors typically work for publishing companies, literary agencies, or as freelancers.

They can also work in close collaboration with authors, assisting them in the development of their work from the initial concept to the final manuscript.

They assess and review the overall content structure, plot development, characterisation, dialogue and pacing of a manuscript.

They focus on the big picture elements of a story rather than the specific line-by-line edits, ensuring the story is well-organized and effectively communicated.

Developmental Editors provide constructive feedback and suggestions to authors on how to improve their work, addressing issues such as inconsistencies in the narrative, gaps in the plot, underdeveloped characters, and other overarching concerns.

They may also work in tandem with copy editors and proofreaders at later stages to ensure the manuscript is polished and ready for publication.

Moreover, Developmental Editors often act as a bridge between the author and the publishing house, conveying the author’s vision to the rest of the publishing team and ensuring that the published book meets the author’s and publisher’s expectations.

Their goal is to ensure that the final product is of the highest quality possible, both in terms of narrative content and readability.

Essential Developmental Editor Skills

Content Analysis: A developmental editor must have the ability to analyze content deeply, understanding its nuances, strengths, and weaknesses, and providing constructive feedback for improvement.
Language Skills: Strong command over language is essential for a developmental editor. They need to ensure clarity, coherence, and correctness in the language and grammar used in the content.
Research: Editors often need to verify facts, figures, or references in the content. Thus, strong research skills are a must-have.
Communication: Effective communication skills are crucial to convey feedback, suggestions, or changes to the writers or other members of the editorial team.
Critical Thinking: Developmental editors must think critically to identify inconsistencies, plot holes, or structural problems in a manuscript. They also need to provide solutions and suggestions for improvements.
Understanding of Genre and Audience: Editors must have a thorough understanding of different genres and their conventions. They also need to understand the target audience of the content to ensure its relevance and appeal.
Project Management: Editors often work on multiple projects simultaneously. Therefore, skills in project management, task prioritization, and deadline management are crucial.
Conflict Resolution: At times, editors might have to negotiate between the writer’s intent and the publisher’s requirements. Hence, good conflict resolution skills are important.
Knowledge of Style Guides: Familiarity with different style guides, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago Manual of Style, is essential to ensure consistency and correctness in formatting and citation.
Adaptability: Publishing trends and norms keep changing. Hence, an ability to adapt and stay updated with the latest trends in the industry is a must.
Patience and Tact: The editorial process can be long and requires careful consideration. Patience is key, as is tact when dealing with sensitive authors or delicate content issues.
Creativity: A developmental editor needs to be creative in their approach to problem-solving, offering fresh, innovative ideas to improve the content.
Teamwork: Collaboration with authors, other editors, and publishing professionals is a major part of the role. Thus, teamwork skills are essential.
Attention to Detail: A keen eye for detail is necessary to catch even the smallest of errors or inconsistencies in a manuscript.
Understanding of Publishing Process: A solid understanding of the publishing process, from manuscript submission to final publication, can help streamline the editing process and manage expectations.

Developmental Editor Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Assistant Developmental Editor

Your journey typically begins as an Assistant Developmental Editor.

At this stage, your focus should be on learning the ins and outs of the editing process, understanding the publishing industry, and assisting senior editors.

Your tasks could include proofreading, fact-checking, and conducting initial manuscript reviews.

Here are some tips for success in this role:

Master the Basics: Familiarize yourself with different writing styles, grammar rules, and editing standards.
Read Extensively: The more you read, the more you’ll understand what makes a good story or argument.
Communicate Effectively: Learn to provide constructive feedback to authors in a clear, concise, and respectful manner.

The Ascent: Developmental Editor

With experience and a strong understanding of the field, you’ll transition to the role of a Developmental Editor.

This role often involves working closely with authors to improve their manuscripts, focusing on aspects such as plot development, character progression, and thematic consistency.

Here’s how to thrive in this stage:

Critical Thinking: Enhance your ability to identify potential issues in a manuscript and suggest creative solutions.
Collaboration: Work closely with authors, understanding their vision and helping them bring it to life.
Time Management: Juggle multiple projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines.

Reaching New Heights: Senior Developmental Editor

As you master the art of editing, you may progress to a Senior Developmental Editor position.

In this role, you’ll likely manage a team of editors and oversee multiple projects.

You might also work on high-profile books and directly influence the publisher’s success.

To excel as a Senior Developmental Editor:

Mentorship: Guide and support junior editors, sharing your knowledge and expertise.
Strategic Planning: Balance business needs with creative decisions to achieve successful publications.
Leadership: Inspire your team, resolve conflicts, and foster a positive and productive work environment.

Beyond the Horizon: Editorial Director and Beyond

With significant experience and expertise, you might consider moving into roles such as Editorial Director or even Publisher.

These positions involve shaping the overall editorial strategy, making crucial decisions about which books to publish, and managing larger teams.

Here’s what to focus on:

Market Insight: Stay updated with market trends, reader preferences, and competitive landscape.
Business Acumen: Develop strong business skills to make strategic decisions and drive the financial success of your publications.
Innovation: Encourage new ideas and innovative approaches to stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving publishing industry.

Pinnacle of Success: Chief Editor or VP of Publishing

At the apex of the developmental editor career path, you may find roles like Chief Editor or VP of Publishing.

Here, you’ll be responsible for overseeing the entire editorial department, making strategic business decisions, and defining the overall direction of the publishing house.

Developmental Editor Salary

Entry-Level Developmental Editor

Median Salary: $35,000 – $45,000 per year
Entry-level developmental editors typically have 0-2 years of experience. They may hold bachelor’s or master’s degrees in English, journalism, communications, or related fields. Their work often involves assisting more experienced editors and working on initial drafts.

Mid-Level Developmental Editor

Median Salary: $45,000 – $60,000 per year
Mid-level developmental editors have 2-5 years of experience. They often take on more complex editing projects and may work with authors to shape the content of their work. This can include checking the structure, content, style, and presentation of the texts.

Senior Developmental Editor

Median Salary: $60,000 – $80,000 per year
Senior developmental editors usually possess 5+ years of experience. They are responsible for leading editing projects, making critical content decisions, and mentoring junior editors. They often collaborate directly with authors to refine and hone the narrative and structure of a work.

Lead Developmental Editor / Editorial Manager

Median Salary: $80,000 – $100,000+ per year
These roles come with significant experience and often involve editorial leadership, project management, and decision-making. They oversee a team of editors and coordinate with authors, publishers, and other stakeholders to ensure high-quality content.

Editorial Director / VP of Editorial

Median Salary: $100,000 – $150,000+ per year
These high-level positions require extensive experience, deep editing expertise, and often involve setting editorial strategies for a company or publication. They play a crucial role in deciding the publication’s direction and content standards.

Developmental Editor Work Environment

Developmental Editors typically work in publishing companies, literary agencies, or as freelancers.

They can also be found in organizations that produce a significant amount of written content, such as universities, research institutions, and large corporations.

Their work environment is typically office-based, but with the rise of digital communications, many Developmental Editors work remotely from home.

They spend much of their time on computers, reviewing and editing manuscripts.

Their schedules can be full-time or part-time, depending on the workload and deadlines.

Freelance Developmental Editors enjoy flexibility in determining their work schedule but also face the challenges of securing consistent projects.

Developmental Editors often collaborate closely with authors, providing them with feedback and guidance to improve the structure and content of their manuscript.

The role requires patience, excellent communication skills, and a deep understanding of the genre and audience for which the author is writing.

FAQs About Becoming a Developmental Editor

What qualifications do I need to become a Developmental Editor?

To become a Developmental Editor, a bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, Communications, or a related field is usually required.

Some employers might prefer candidates with a master’s degree in publishing or journalism.

Experience in publishing, writing, or editing is also crucial.

Knowledge of the specific genre or industry you wish to work in can be beneficial.

Strong language skills, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to work closely with writers are essential.

Do I need any specific training to be a Developmental Editor?

While there is no official training to become a Developmental Editor, many professionals in this field have backgrounds in literature, journalism, and communications.

Knowledge of the Chicago Manual of Style or the AP Stylebook can be beneficial.

Many editors also attend workshops or complete online courses on editing to improve their skills.

Work experience in publishing, whether as an intern, a freelance writer, or in another editing role, is also very valuable.

Can I become a Developmental Editor if I don’t have a degree?

While a degree can be beneficial, it is not always necessary to become a Developmental Editor.

Many editors have started their careers with only a high school diploma.

However, they usually have strong writing and editing skills and have gained experience through internships, freelance work, or other related roles.

Being well-read, having a strong command of language and grammar, and possessing excellent critical thinking skills can also be just as important as formal education.

Is Developmental Editing a stressful job?

Developmental Editing can be demanding as it often involves working closely with authors and meeting tight deadlines.

However, the level of stress can vary depending on the workload, the specific projects you are working on, and how well you manage your time.

Many Developmental Editors find the work rewarding as they get to help shape a manuscript and guide an author to produce the best possible work.

What are the prospects for Developmental Editors in the future?

The prospects for Developmental Editors are generally stable.

While the publishing industry has undergone significant changes due to digital technology, the need for skilled editors to work on books, academic papers, and other written content remains high.

Additionally, the rise of self-publishing has created new opportunities for freelance Developmental Editors.

With a strong skill set and flexibility to adapt to new publishing trends, Developmental Editors can find a wide range of opportunities.

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Embarking on a journey to become a developmental editor is no easy task, but it’s unquestionably rewarding.

Equipped with the right skills, education, and perseverance, you’re well on your way to making a significant mark in the publishing industry.

Remember, the path may be strenuous, but the opportunities are boundless. Your editorial insights could shape the next best-selling novel or groundbreaking academic paper.

So, take that first step. Immerse yourself in literature. Network with industry professionals. And most importantly, never stop honing your craft.

Because the literary world is eager for what you can refine.

And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career as a developmental editor, check out our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool is designed to offer tailored advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.

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