Guest: Erika Steeves

Host: Sharissa Bradley

Episode Summary: In this industry-deep dive, editor Erika Steeves joins Sharissa to demystify the editing process for authors at every stage. From booking timelines and payment standards to red flags to avoid, Erika shares expert advice to help you navigate the editing journey with clarity and confidence.

In this episode, we cover:

• [00:01:00] How to approach an editor and what to expect from the initial onboarding process
• [00:04:30] Editing timelines by service type: copyediting, developmental, and proofreading
• [00:07:20] What happens between first and second passes and ideal author turnaround time
• [00:09:00] How Erika manages her editing workload and why she only takes 1–2 projects at a time
• [00:11:00] Questions every author should ask before signing with an editor
• [00:13:00] Red flags to look for: rushed timelines, no contract, prices too low to be true
• [00:17:00] Payment terms: what's standard and what's a red flag
• [00:20:00] When is your manuscript ready for editing? How to prepare for professional services
• [00:22:00] Erika's words of encouragement to writers afraid of the editing process

Resources Mentioned:

• Erika's Website: www.erikasteeves.com
• Instagram: @erika.steeves.edits
• Project Seed Money Community: https://www.projectseedmoney.com
• Watch on youtube: https://youtu.be/liJMx67ePtI

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