This is not an exhaustive list for a copyedit, and it also does not necessarily mean an editor must meet all criteria perfectly. But as you choose an editor, these are some good things to take note of. Your editor should be professional AND someone you enjoy working with.
Turnaround time
– Was the editor clear about turnaround time for the sample edit?
– Did they send back the sample edit within the time frame they said they would?
Process
– Does the editor provide a contract or service agreement?
– Do they outline the scope of work for the project based on the sample edit?
– Do they communicate how payment will be handled?
Tone
– Are the queries (comments) professional?
– Is the general tone polite and kind?
– Do you feel as if they are providing their expertise in a collaborative way? Or do you feel bulldozed? Or on the other end, do you feel love-bombed?
Thoroughness
– Some manuscripts will have hundreds of revisions while others will have fewer.
– But if an editor only finds a handful of revisions, that could be a sign that they were not thorough.
– Did they provide a style sheet?
