In this blog post, we explore why we stopped offering free sample edits.

At Team Keemiya, our inbox is a treasure trove of queries from the vibrant and diverse community of authors, aspiring and seasoned alike. The journey of writing and publishing can be labyrinthine, and the questions that land in our inbox mirror the kaleidoscope of concerns, curiosities, and dreams that authors harbor.

In this segment, “Insights from the Inbox,” we unravel the threads of these queries and lay bare our responses, aiming to be a guiding beacon for the author community. From the intricacies of the publishing process to the nuances of storytelling, no question is too small or too complex.

We understand that the world of writing can be both enchanting and daunting, and our goal is to demystify this odyssey by sharing the collective wisdom gleaned from years of experience. Each question represents a writer’s unique journey, and our responses are crafted not just with expertise but with the genuine desire to foster a community where every voice finds resonance.

So, whether you’re grappling with the enigma of book marketing, navigating the labyrinth of literary agents, or seeking solace in the face of writer’s block, know that you’re not alone. The pages of our inbox tell a story of shared dreams, aspirations, and the unwavering belief that every author has a story worth telling.

#DidYouKnow – We host a podcast on book marketing to help authors learn how to market their books.

If you find yourself at the crossroads of uncertainty or if there’s a burning question on your mind, reach out to us. Your inquiry might just become a guiding star for someone else navigating the writer’s odyssey. Together, let’s turn the pages of this collective narrative and illuminate the path for every storyteller daring to pen their tale.

Publishing Query No. 1

Why doesn’t Team KC offer free sample edits?

As a matter of practice, at Keemiya Creatives, we do not offer free sample edits.

Just to clarify sample edits are usually requested by clients while they are still querying with the service provider before deciding whether to work with them or not as editors for their project.

When we started in 2018, we did offer free sample edits to clients as was expected. Over the period, we observed two things:

1. Rampant misuse of free sample edits
2. Investment of time, energy, and resources into something that was not always productive.

Since early 2020, we decided to stop offering free sample edits.

Why did we stop offering free sample edits?

The decision to forego offering sample edits in professional editing services is rooted in a commitment to uphold industry standards and ensure fair practices for both editors and authors.

Maintaining Integrity

Professional editors prioritize the integrity of their craft. Providing sample edits, especially for longer manuscripts, might risk unintentional exposure of a significant portion of the author’s work without a commitment in return.

Respecting Intellectual Property

Manuscripts are intellectual property, and authors understandably value the confidentiality of their creative work. By avoiding sample edits, editing services respect the author’s right to keep their content private until an agreement is in place.

Ensuring Equitable Exchange

Editing is a specialized skill, and offering sample edits without compensation could undervalue the expertise of the editor. Establishing a fair exchange, where the author pays for the editor’s time and skill, ensures a mutually beneficial relationship.

Focusing on Comprehensive Evaluation

Rather than providing sample edits, professional editors often offer detailed consultations or manuscript assessments. This approach allows for a comprehensive evaluation of the manuscript’s strengths and areas for improvement, guiding the author toward an informed decision.

Preserving Time and Resources

Editors dedicate significant time and resources to each project. Offering sample edits without a commitment may lead to an inefficient use of these resources, which could be better directed toward providing comprehensive editing services for clients.

While the absence of sample edits might seem counterintuitive to some, it reflects a commitment to professionalism, respect for intellectual property, and a focus on delivering high-quality editing services fairly and equitably.

Know more about our editing process: 7 Things to Know about Editing

Did it impact our business?

No. Not even 5%.

Are there any cons of taking this stand?

Quite a few. But the biggest one has to be the way clients respond when they are refused a free sample edit.

Why are you against sample edits?

We are not against sample edits. We are happy to provide them against appropriate payment for the time and effort put behind it. We are against FREE sample edits.

And to know why, please scroll to the top of this post to read: Why did we stop offering free sample edits?

Have a query on writing/publishing/book marketing? Reach out to us.