The Power of Words. What can a writer do to help an editor?

10/8/97
Part 1: What can a writer do
to help an editor?

Part 2: What can an editor do to help a writer?
Part 3: How reporters hinder editors
Part 4: How editors hinder reporters

       Recently, a group of writers and editors sat down and tried to come up with a series of lists on how they could work together. The first, and most fundamental rule everyone agreed, was to try and remember that the story is more important than either the writer or the editor.
       That was not all that was decided. The group talked about how editors and writers can help each other, and hinder each other. This is the first of four lists that will be offered:
       What can a writer do to help an editor?
       Adopt this attitude: everyone needs an editor.
       Recognize that collaborating with an editor is a workable, valuable process that should make a story even better. Accept that this is how it works. Keep that principle in mind.
       Produce great ideas. Keep pitching them.
       Try an assignment before you begin complaining about it. If you hate an assignment or idea, suggest another one. Show ingenuity.
       Communicate. Tell the editor why you did what you did -- and be open to his or her suggestions. Get to know the editor as a human being -- what makes this person tick.
       Understand an editor's schedule. Work with the editor to arrange talking time.
       Raise problems early.
       Give an editor information that is not included in the story but may be relevant.
       Tell the editor what the story is about before you write it. Sell its importance.
       Try hard. Go beyond the "letter of the law.'' Make more than just the one telephone call requested; do more than was required.
       Write for the reader, not for yourself.
       Don't assume that the reader has previous knowledge about the subject of the story.
       Meet deadlines.
       Read critically. Give copy that one last read, even when you are tired of it.
       Know the style book; use a dictionary or computer spell-check program.
       Be objective about criticism; try not to take it personally.
       Be flexible and open-minded. Don't assume you are always right.
       Refuse to bend where bending isn't justified; sometimes the editor needs to be told when a change must not be made. Be articulate in your defense. Be direct.
       Praise an editor who has been helpful. Don't be passive. Show your enthusiasm.
       Pick your battles. A writer will be more effective in the give-and-take of the editing process if he or she argues on only the most important issues.
       Forgive. That is, fight the good fight to preserve the beautiful story, but don't harbor grudges or prejudices.
       Publish.
       Keep a sense of humor.
       Read the newspaper.

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