What do you do if your writers and editors can't see eye to eye?
In the world of content creation, a harmonious relationship between writers and editors is crucial for producing quality work. However, there are times when these two key players don't see eye to eye, leading to conflict that can hinder productivity and affect morale. Whether it's a difference in creative vision or a disagreement on edits, finding common ground is essential. Understanding how to navigate these differences is key to maintaining a cohesive and efficient workflow.
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Ijeoma OkekeContent Writer | Copywriter | Editor | Ghostwriter | Proofreader | English Tutor | I Write Novels
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Javeria UsmaniReady to Revolutionize Healthcare with Words? 🚀 | Follow for Patient-Centric Content that Cures | Innovative…
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Charles PurdySenior Brand Editor (Cella @ Chevron) • Founder (Moxy Creative) • Expert Writer, Editor, and Content Manager
When writers and editors disagree, the first step is to encourage open dialogue. It's important for both parties to express their perspectives without fear of judgment or reprisal. By fostering an environment where thoughts and ideas can be shared freely, you create the opportunity for understanding and compromise. Listening is just as important as speaking; ensure both sides are heard and that the conversation aims to reach a mutual resolution rather than to win an argument.
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I was a managing editor for a publishing company for a little over eight months. I managed about ten writers and edited their articles. Sometimes, we had clashes because what they thought was right did not meet my expectations. I found that sitting down and talking about all the angles helped to resolve issues. The longer we worked together, the better we understood each other and worked better. Sometimes, the problem is a lack of communication; other times, the friction comes with getting to know each other. Give it time, be open to corrections and learning, and you will be amazed at how easily you can work with anyone.
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If your writers and editors can't see eye to eye: Facilitate Communication: Arrange a meeting to openly discuss issues and perspectives. Clarify Expectations: Ensure both parties understand project goals and guidelines. Find Common Ground: Identify shared objectives and areas of agreement. Mediate Conflicts: Act as a neutral mediator to resolve disagreements constructively. Set Clear Processes: Establish clear workflows and protocols for revisions and feedback. By fostering communication, clarifying expectations, and mediating conflicts, you can help writers and editors work more harmoniously.
Clarity in roles and expectations can prevent many conflicts before they start. Make sure writers know what is expected of them in terms of content, style, and deadlines. Similarly, editors should be clear about the scope of their revisions and the rationale behind their changes. When both parties understand their responsibilities and the boundaries within which they operate, it's easier to collaborate and respect each other's contributions to the project.
Remind both writers and editors of the common goal: to create the best possible content. When discussions become heated or personal, redirect the focus to the shared objective. This can often help to depersonalize the conflict and reduce tension. By emphasizing the end goal, you encourage collaboration and problem-solving, which can lead to innovative solutions that satisfy both parties.
Encouraging empathy can bridge the gap between differing opinions. Ask writers and editors to consider each other's challenges and viewpoints. When an editor understands the writer's creative process, and a writer appreciates the editor's dedication to quality, mutual respect grows. This understanding can transform a contentious relationship into a dynamic partnership where each person values the other's contribution.
Sometimes, despite best efforts, writers and editors reach an impasse. In such cases, having a third party mediate can be beneficial. This mediator should be neutral and focused on facilitating a solution that respects both the writer's intent and the editor's concerns. They can help clarify misunderstandings, suggest compromises, and keep the discussion on track, ensuring that both sides feel heard and understood.
Finally, if conflicts persist, it may be time to review and adapt your editorial processes. Look for patterns in disputes to identify systemic issues. Perhaps the workflow is too rigid, or communication channels are inadequate. By being willing to adjust processes, you demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and provide a framework within which writers and editors can work together more harmoniously.
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