What do you do if your chances of getting published could be improved with feedback from editors?

Firstly, you need to make of list of people you'd like to work with. Strategically search through your list for editors, alpha-readers, et al. and then seek insights. Many editors leave specific instructions: -How they like to be approached? -When to reach out? -What is their expertise? These instructions are not suggestions. Follow them for a swift response.

If I feel like my chances of getting published could be better with some advice from editors, I usually reach out to them. Getting feedback from editors can really improve my chances of getting my work out there. Their insights help me refine my writing and make it more appealing to readers. It's like having a helpful guide who can point out what works and what doesn't in my writing. So, I see it as a valuable opportunity to learn and grow as a writer.

Attend writing conferences or workshops that offer manuscript consultations with editors. This can be a cost-effective way to get feedback and potentially network with potential publishers.

When I finished my PhD, I realised I had not learned how to write in the process. I learned how to revise and delete. Never get emotionally attached to what you write. A good editor will improve your text and writing if you are open to listening, changing, and growing. Remember, the mind is like an umbrella. It only works when it is open.

The editor gets paid to provide feedback. Whether you listen to the feedback or not - that's your choice. My recommendation: Work with someone you trust and like. The editor will not agree with you all the time and vice versa. You need to be comfortable with that. -Talk to multiple editors before making your choice. -Match energies, working styles and communication preferences. -Request a (paid) sample edit. I'd personally go an editor who believes in communication being a two-way street. As an author, you are allowed to defend your book. As an editor, one is allowed to critique the book. Two-way street ~ you both have to be able to talk to each other with the singular focus of improving the book.

I feel like a lot of self-editing fails here because it is difficult for most authors to disassociate from their book (which took over their life for a bit). It is so difficult to revise wisely. It is okay to struggle here. I don't have any universally true tip here because different things work for different authors. Just know that it is hard. It is okay to rely on your circle of trust here (friends who know about the book, beta-readers, writing community peeps, editor/s, etc.).

Take this one with a grain of salt. Every great book can be improved because writing styles evolve. Focus on improving your skills as a writer, a storyteller, an author - someone who moves people with their words. The rest will figure itself out.

Network meaningfully (as opposed to networking with the purpose of getting something from people). Most industry experts are used to people attempting to leverage their expertise. Don't be a taker and a user. Be a decent person instead.

You've put a lot of sweat and tears into your book draft and you would like to think it is perfect. But remember, there is no such thing as perfect writing. And we tend not to see our own errors when we are so close to our writing. Hiring a good editor before you publish your book is one of the best investments you can make for your book. A good editor will provide constructive feedback and show you what to improve in your writing for the future.