Creative writers are often told to "write like an editor," the implication being that they should be writing for a prescribed audience and in a certain way. Depending on the type of writing, there is some basis to that instruction. But to "write like an editor" also suggests an imbalance in the author-editor relationship. When the editor's approach is treated as inherently superior to the writer's, resentment and antagonism can quickly follow.

This 60-minute webinar rights that imbalance by looking at the important ways in which editors need to "edit like a writer." We'll explore the important role that empathy plays in editing, with specific examples and tips. Much of what editors tell writers can be difficult for them to hear, even if the information seems straightforward or even obvious — and even if the editor is absolutely correct. When the editor takes a caring and compassionate approach rooted in understanding where the writer is coming from, the writer can take in and apply editorial feedback without defensiveness, building a collaborative process that supports the editor, the writer, and the work.

Editors of all types and levels can benefit from this webinar, but it's particularly geared toward those who work with creative writers, with a focus on developmental and line editing, which can be much more subjective (and thus require more sensitivity). It will also be useful to writing coaches and beta readers. You'll come away ready to engage your clients with empathy, leading to constructive and productive relationships, repeat business, and valuable referrals.

Jessica Klimesh (she/her) is a creative writer and the owner of JEK Writing Studio, where she coaches creative writers and edits a broad range of work, from blogs and technical reports to poetry manuscripts and memoir. She previously taught English as a Second Language (ESL) and Rhetoric at the University of Iowa. Jessica holds an MA in English and an MFA in Creative Writing, and has over twenty years of creative writing-workshop experience, both as a participant and facilitator. Jessica's own creative work has been published in around 100 literary journals, and, most recently, she's had stories selected for Best Microfiction 2025 and Best of the Net 2025. She has also received nominations for the Pushcart Prize and Best Small Fictions, and her stories have won or been short- or long-listed in a number of flash fiction contests.