How can you train editors to work with different types of content?

When you understand the goal, you will understand the type of Editing the content needs and how to go about it. For effective editing, it's important to send content or manuscript critique to the client before you start the process so the client can be sure you understand what he wants and how to give it.

Always take a minute to lay out the goals and objectives. From there, remember: Editors should not only refine grammar but also connect with the target audience, adjusting tone and style to meet specific objectives. Mastering storytelling techniques is key for narratives, ensuring a coherent and engaging flow. In the digital realm, editors need to seamlessly integrate keywords for improved visibility. Basic multimedia editing skills are a must. This approach turns editors into adaptable storytellers, addressing the distinct needs of diverse content needs beyond just grammatical correctness.

CREATE A BRAND GUIDE TO COMPLEMENT THE STYLE GUIDE Style guides provide a set of writing and/or visual standards - word counts, headline structures, logos, and colors. They ensure consistency across creative applications. Brand guides articulate mission and values - the core ethos guiding communication. This helps editors intuitively make choices aligned with the brand when uncertainties arise beyond prescriptive rules. While style guides cover tactical details, brand guides convey the full strategic vision to contextualize the identity. Understanding the brand DNA empowers editors to determine what fits. Together, they create cohesion but serve distinct purposes. Brand guides enable editors to comprehend the overarching brand vision.

I have edited creative writing and technical writing in my career. There is a marked difference in the demands of these different types and I enjoy the variety. However, as an editor you need to make sure the expectations of your client is very clear. A fantasy writer is going to need focus on consistency, world building, and language. Major errors tend to be in things like info dumping or purple prose. Technical editing often has more stringent guidelines. You need to become familiar with boilerplate or legal language that must be included while helping these writers make their language concrete and strait-forward. Technical writers love lists, so your punctuation, bullet point, or table making abilities need to be strong.

To tailor your approach, it's important to consider your audience. The reader is paramount. Editing content that your readers won't enjoy reading is counterproductive, so being flexible is key.

In my experience, learn and incorporate the different style guides (MLA, APA, Chicago, etc.,). Purdue Owl is a good source for the common style guides. Learn when each is used and how they work with your companies professional style guide. Your companies professional guide can usually be found in sections of their web site dealing with documents, marketing, or branding. If your company is very small or a start up, work with your manager or management team to develop the appropriate style guide and branding for how they want to be seen in the professional world.