What is entailed when information for what is to be edited comes from different sources within an enterprise?
Email is the best way to get the ball rolling and identify relevant parties through the contact’s “cc” in the reply, but subsequent telephone conversations can place requests at a higher priority. Keeping a “diary” notation separated by whom, not what, also organizes what has been done, needs to be done, or why something was used.
How does non-native written material get processed?
The original writer should be encouraged to first get their thoughts down in the order that they want. Secondly, they should use industry-specific terms without worrying about the verb tense/form or “correct” part of speech. Thirdly, if referring to someone, if they put Mr. or Mrs. or Ms. in front of the name (first-mention), as this establishes gender. Fourthly, if they avoid using personal (he, his), demonstrative (this, that) and indefinite (what, who) pronouns, the subject of any sentence or phrase is clear.
While tracking is a valuable record of the process, a clean version is less confusing and should be the one exchanged with the editor. Patience on the part of the editor is especially required when receiving feedback since usually the material is checked by different “levels” of command on the client side as the exchanges take place, with their “native” speaker and “higher” management not involved probably until toward the end.
Whether in an email, written as a comment on a PDF, or spoken over the telephone, the changes from the client are welcomed, whether they are specific or general instructions/impressions.
Why is an outside editor useful in certain situations where contact is required with stakeholders?
Being the “face” of a client can bring a level of professionalism regarding this function of an enterprise, and strengthen the overall relationship between their stakeholders. Whether on a retainer basis or project-by-project, an outside editor is an invaluable extension to an enterprise’s human resources. Having worked in management positions myself, I have a strong awareness of how to “fit” in to an established corporate culture.
What is the strongest measurement of capability and integrity when it comes to editing?
Being on the masthead of publications widely distributed directly to the business and foreign communities, as well as to visitors staying at major hotels in Tokyo, puts my reputation on the line on a consistent, regular basis. That said, some of my more significant editorial “successes” are when a global multinational company puts its name on collateral that I was lead editor but am not mentioned.