Self-publishing? Why You Need to Hire An Editor

I am a completely self-taught, self-published author. With each new book, I learn something new or take on another DIY endeavour. I design my own book covers, format my own interiors, and even have my own publishing imprint. But there’s one thing I will never attempt to do myself: edit my own work.

Even after combing through my manuscripts multiple times, convinced I’ve caught every grammatical slip and misplaced comma, my editor always finds more. It’s both humbling and deeply reassuring. A good editor doesn’t just fix typos; they bring clarity, consistency, and polish to your words. They catch the things your brain fills in automatically, the sentences that make perfect sense to you but not necessarily to your reader.

You can ignore all my other bits of advice if you want, but not this one: hire an editor.

You’ve already done the hard work of writing a book. You’ve poured your heart onto the page and decided to take on the even bigger challenge of publishing it yourself. That deserves to be celebrated and protected. An editor ensures that your story is presented in its best possible light. They help you bridge the gap between what you meant to say and what the reader actually reads.

For indie authors, quality matters even more. Without the backing of a traditional publishing house, your professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to craft set you apart. A clean, well-edited book builds trust with readers, increases your chances of good reviews, and honours the time and emotional investment you’ve put into your work.

Editing isn’t about perfection. It’s about respect. Respect for your story, your readers, and your own creative growth.

So, if you’re preparing to publish your book, do yourself (and your future readers) a favour: hire an editor. It’s one of the best investments you can make in your writing journey.

To your journey,

Sharla