In this episode of The Editor’s Half Hour, I’m joined by Tia Ross to talk about the realities behind one of the most misunderstood professions in publishing. At the center of our conversation is her book, "So You Want to Be an Editor... But Can You Edit?," which challenges the idea that editing is a casual or easily acquired skill.
Tia breaks down what it actually takes to do this work well—from technical knowledge and critical thinking to discipline, judgment, and accountability. We also dig into a critical issue in today’s landscape: the consequences of an unregulated industry. When writers don’t do their due diligence in choosing an editor, the impact can be significant.
Poor editing doesn’t just affect the quality of a manuscript—it can compromise clarity, credibility, and the author’s long-term success. At the same time, editors who take on work without the proper skill set risk damaging their professional reputation and the trust placed in them.
Tia speaks candidly about this shared responsibility—on both sides. This episode is also a reminder that editing is not static. Strong editors stay informed. They continue learning. They refine their skills over time and remain aware of evolving standards, tools, and expectations within the industry.
Being an editor isn’t about claiming the title. It’s about consistently earning it.
Purchase Tia’s book: https://tiarosseditor.com/be-an-editor/
Visit the organization she started: https://blackeditorsproofreaders.com/
Connect with Tia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tia-ross-editor/
To learn more about Tia and the services she provides, visit her website at www.tiarosseditor.com
