Working with Editors and Having “The Talk”

Hello Writers! Okay, let's chat about something that makes many disabled writers nervous – telling editors about our needs and accommodations. Whether you're working with a freelance editor or submitting to publications, here's how to have those conversations without wanting to hide under your desk.

Remember, You're Not Being “Difficult”

Let's get this out of the way –

Asking for accommodations is professional

Having needs doesn't make you high-maintenance

You're not asking for “special treatment”

You're setting yourself up for success

Before “The Talk”

Know Your Needs –

What helps you work best?

What are your deal-breakers?

Which accommodations are must-haves vs. nice-to-haves?

Get Your Ducks in a Row

Have your accommodation requests clear in your head

Know what alternatives might work

Be ready to explain what you need (but not your whole medical history)

Starting the Conversation

Good Times to Bring It Up –

During initial contact

When discussing project timeline

Before signing any contracts

When setting up workflow

How to Say It

You have the right to take up space and you have the right to have these conversations without guilt. Try starting with “To ensure I can deliver my best work, I need…” rather than “I hope this isn’t a problem, but…” or “I’m sorry to ask this, but…”

What to Discuss

Timing –

How you handle deadlines

What flexibility you might need

Your best working hours

Recovery time needs

Communication Preferences –

Email vs. phone vs. video

Response time expectations

Best ways to give feedback

How you handle meetings

Technical Needs –

File formats that work for you

Software compatibility

Accessibility tools you use

Alternative formats you might need

I Don’t Know How to Begin

Here are some sample scripts you might want to try –

For Freelance Editors –

“Hi [Name], I'm excited to work with you on this project. To ensure smooth collaboration, I want to let you know that I work best with [specific accommodation]. This helps me deliver high-quality work while managing my health effectively.”

For Publications –

“Thank you for your interest in my work. I usually need [accommodation] to complete assignments effectively. Would this work with your standard process?”

For Following Up –

“Just checking in about the accommodations we discussed. Would you like me to clarify anything about how this would work?”

Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on Unsplash

When Things Get Awkward

If They Say No –

Ask about alternatives

Suggest compromises

Know your walk-away point

If They Don't Get It –

Provide specific examples

Focus on professional outcomes

Have backup plans ready

Red Flags to Watch For

Editor Red Flags –

Dismissing your needs outright

Making you justify basic accommodations

Suggesting you "just push through"

Being inflexible about everything

Green Flags to Celebrate –

Asking clarifying questions

Offering alternatives

Being open to discussion

Having experience with accommodation requests

Making It Work

For You –

Keep track of what works

Document agreements

Speak up if needs change

Celebrate good collaborations

For Them –

Be clear about what you can deliver

Meet agreed-upon deadlines

Communicate proactively

Express appreciation for accommodation

The Emergency Kit

Have Ready –

Template emails for common requests

Backup plans for bad health days

List of alternative accommodations

Support system to consult

Success Stories

Remember –

Many editors are happy to accommodate

Some might have disability experience

You might be helping future writers

Good editors want you to succeed

When It's Not Working

It's Okay To –

Look for another editor

Change your mind

Adjust agreements

Prioritize your health

The Bottom Line

You deserve to work with editors who respect your needs. Period. Full stop. No exceptions.

Remember –

Your needs are valid

Your work is valuable

Your health matters

The right editor is out there

In Conclusion – The best editing relationships are built on clear communication and mutual respect. Don't settle for less – you and your work deserve proper support and understanding.

Keep writing, keep advocating for yourself, and remember: the right editor will see your accommodations as just another part of working with a professional writer. Because that's exactly what they are!

QOD – What are your can’t-do-without accommodations?

Thanks for reading!

-Amos