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Many writers suffer from this phobia on a daily basis. Palms sweat, hearts race, and the respective author will gain a distinct look of panic around their eyes. Editors seem like intimidating figures to many writers. They're cold, merciless, and someone you don't want to cross. But, are they really as bad as all that?

Editors are enigmatic figures for a reason. Editors work as "screens" for publishers and periodicals. They filter the incoming material and sort out the good from the best. They can't be emotionally involved with any work or writer that doesn't belong with their company. Do they receive material they like, but can't accept? Sure. That's when you receive personalized rejection letters that tell you why they can't take your book.

Every author should remember that agents and editors have senior professionals they who will hold them accountable for mistakes. It might be bosses, business accountants, managers or any of a myriad of professionals. They have to be positively confident that your work will not only fit in with their company, but that it will bring profit to the company.

Many editors find ten, twenty, fifty, or more manuscripts on their desks every day. All of the authors want to create a good impression and want the best for their book. They are all hoping to grab the editor's attention and hold onto it for two or three hundred pages. How long does it take you to read a single book?

Despite the image they are often given, many don't have any greater job security than the next person. If they choose a work that isn't what it should be, they can't afford to take it. If they made half the money authors often think, they wouldn't be working at all. They certainly wouldn't spend their days wading through manuscripts and being the messenger who informs so many writers that aren't accepted.

Consider the costs of publication at the middle and larger sized houses. The publication costs for a single title can run $15,000 – $30,000 dollars. Can you imagine what your boss would do if you cost your employer that amount of money for one mistake? Not only does a poor selling book cost in terms of publication, it can also cost in terms of money advanced to the author. You can figure in an extra $500 - $10, 000 dollars for the average author.

Many writers don't realize how important editors are. A good editor can help you more, by being critical and firm, than you can learn on your own in years. They can readily spot your most troublesome areas and offer advice on how to fix it, or how to hide it. They can keep you grounded and focused on the more technical aspects of your writing.

A Word on Bad Apples:

There are a tiny fraction of editors who are impossible. They are demanding, far too critical, and have apparent personal issues that bleed over into their professional attitude. Don't let these few prevent you from healthy, professional relationships with editors who aren't "scary" and who are consummate, considerate professionals.