Earning Likes from Clients: Tips and Tricks

A common question among editors is "How can I earn user likes from my edits?" Although everyone's editing style is different (and that's what our users love about Kibin!), there are some techniques and tricks we've noticed that keep users coming back for more. Crystal W. was kind enough to talk to me about tricks she's found that have helped her wrack up likes (588 and counting!), and likes often lead to return DR clients. I've combined her thoughts with things that worked for me and trends I've seen in great user feedback in my time as a CHC and Community Manager. 

• Comments, comments, comments! - Kibin users loooooove comments. Because many students are non-native English speakers, they leave really awesome feedback when you teach them through the comments of your edits. For example, if you notice someone consistently forgets commas after introductory clauses, you could leave a quick comment addressing that fact, then link them to a resource providing a more detailed explanation (users love extra resources too!). 
  • Something Crystal found that works well for her is prefacing her comments with either "Reason:" to signal that the comment is about why a change was made or "Suggestion:" to let the user know you're suggesting they try something different. 
• Be personable - Engaging with the user on a personal level is a really easy way to earn likes. If something in the user's document stands out or resonates with you, mention it! Don't be afraid to tell them that what they have to say interests you. :) Additionally, ending your comments with phrases like "..., ya know?" or "See what you think." or "Your thoughts?" can also make the author feel like you're having a conversation and working together. 
• Positivity goes a long way - I know that it can sometimes be difficult to find positive things to say about a document. When I first started as an editor, I had trouble remembering to build the writer up as I simultaneously tore their paper to shreds. However, when I started focusing on leaving more positive comments to balance out the areas that needed improvement, I started getting more positive feedback and favorites. Yes, students pay us to help them improve their writing, so that should always be your top priority. Sprinkling in one or two positive comments on each page, however, builds the writer's confidence and softens the blow of more critical feedback.
• Personal statements and admissions essays are a gold mine for favorites - It can be easy to forget that these are high-stakes documents for our clients. To them, that document could be the reason they get in to the school of their dreams! Crystal mentioned that she edits personal statements "MUCH more heavily than things that are graded" and that "sometimes completely rearranging them, if it makes more sense, has more impact." Spending more time with the language, flow, and organization of an admissions essay or personal statement leaves a great impression on users because you're helping them put their absolute best foot forward in what might be a stressful situation. A great experience with a personal statement could also turn into regular DRs after you help them get in to that dream school! 

The aforementioned tips might not apply to every document or every user, of course, so keep in mind that this is general advice you can use in your edits if you feel that you're struggling to receive 'likes' from clients. Lastly, please remember that your closing comments aren't a place to ask for likes; the user experience is far better when you're earning likes through your editing.