Esme Bates

Headline

Hi! I have 17 years of professional editing experience and a dog snoozing on my feet. ▽(´ᴥ`)▽ Oxford comma superfan

Biography

Hi! I've been a professional editor for 17 years. My passion for reading and writing led to a high school teaching career, but I quickly realized I loved the business of words more than the business of teaching. I spent a few years editing pharmaceutical documents before transitioning to national and international association publications. Every day was different; some days I’d edit a conference program for a trade association, and other days I’d edit an academic textbook on pediatric cancer or a memoir. I've spent the last 4 years exclusively editing non-fiction books. I transitioned to freelance editing because it allows more flexibility in my life.

I’m an active advocate for people with disabilities and their families, and I can’t resist a dirt road in the mountains.

Previous experience, degrees, and qualifications

I have a degree in English with a minor in secondary education. I have over 17 years of broad experience editing everything from books to FDA documents to trade magazines, e-newsletters, and academic tomes. I am qualified to edit for APA, CMS, AMA, and AP styles. I am a native US English speaker, and I am comfortable with UK English conventions. In the past year, I have edited over 60 books ranging from 5,000 words to 325,000 words. I left my long-term 9-5 editing job for the flexibility of freelancing.

Interests and hobbies

I love to read, travel off the beaten path, and spend time with my family and dogs. I am passionate about my advocacy work supporting people with disabilities and their families. My pandemic hobby was learning how to cook, and I am finally in a place where I actually enjoy it.

How I'd describe my personality in two sentences

I'm an extroverted introvert who loves silence and adventures outside my comfort zone. Grizzly bears are my spirit animals.

How I'd describe my approach to my work

Communication is key! I make sure we are all on the same page with clear schedule commitments and a rear view and roadmap of the process.

Why should you choose me for your project

Although, as an editor, I come into the process later in the game, I consider myself a full team member from the moment I open your manuscript. The success and quality of your project matter to me.

Portfolio

No samples are available to view here.

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