Why You Need a Good Editor: A #CMWorld Twitter Chat with Ann Gynn

We at Content Marketing Institute recognize the importance of a good editor. Our editorial team relies on our editor to spot inconsistencies in our content, style, and format. Our editor improves the quality of our blog posts.

But let’s face it. Not everyone fully understands why an editor is needed. That’s why we invited our very own editor, Ann Gynn, to join us for a #CMWorld Twitter chat. Ann recently wrote about the difference between editing and proofing and how each can improve your content. Plus, our team would be lost without Ann and her expertise.

What follows are a few responses from her chat. Want to see all of the tweets? Check out our Twitter Moment.

Do all writers need an editor? Are there instances when an editor is not necessary?

A2) All writers need a second, third, and fourth pair of eyes. Someone to copy check, someone to content check, and someone to make sure that what you’re writing fits within the stated goals of your content/marketing plans. #CMWorld pic.twitter.com/54zQqJaOUO

— J Reno(e) 🤘🎙🤘 (@Renoe) May 8, 2018

A2 I can’t imagine NOT having an editor – they help with extra eyes, perspective, keeping cohesiveness to the medium (magazine, online paper, etc) Editors eyes are further removed from writers emotions 🙂 #cmworld https://t.co/iBsOwxi1St

— LUCYrk (@LUCYrk78) May 8, 2018

A2 “need an editor?” #cmworld. I’m always impressed/thankful when I receive edited copy back from a @CMIContent editor and observe how much better the post reads, once they’ve cleared out the underbrush of unnecessary,duplicate, unnecessary words. Thanks, all.

— Roger C. Parker (@Rogercparker) May 8, 2018

In the relationship between writer and editor, how can you balance the structural responsibilities of an editor and the creative voice of a writer?

A3) Editors are there to perfect the writers’ voice, not replace it. They eliminate the distractions of imperfections. #CMworld https://t.co/y9PNr68CEX

— Jeremy Bond (@JeremyDBond) May 8, 2018

A3: It takes time for writers and editors to build a relationship. Once they understand that they’re working for the greater good—the copy and what it means to the brand—they become more open to feedback loops. #CMWorld

— Narmadhaa (@s_narmadhaa) May 8, 2018

A3: One brief to rule them all, and in the darkness bind them.

If in doubt, the brief wins. #CMWorld https://t.co/VUfLzMbqdn

— David McGuire (@McGuireDavid) May 8, 2018

Want to continue the learnings?

• Comment on our LinkedIn Groupdiscussion on the role of editor.
• Read Ann’s posts on the CMI blog.
• Register for Content Marketing World and follow our Writing/Content Development Track. Sign up by May 31 to secure Early Bird pricing.

Have a topic you would like to see covered on an upcoming #CMWorld Twitter chat? Leave us a message in the comments below.