Kibin’s Philosophy on Feedback
A Kibin editor’s mission is to guide authors to clearer writing that will help them reach their goals. We do this by editing comprehensively for grammar, spelling, punctuation, sentence structure, word choice, and idea flow.
We also believe in providing valuable, actionable, and insightful feedback and advice—in a kind and understanding manner—on how users can improve their submissions. Think constructive criticism. Aim to be an editing hero by giving our users the best and most helpful feedback possible.
Since valuable feedback is near and dear to our gushingly sympathetic hearts, let’s talk more about what that entails. Kibin users love the fact that they get an awesomely edited paper, but they also adore the feedback our editors leave. It’s a large part of what keeps our customers coming back.
While noting what the author did well can sometimes be challenging, you can always think of something to include in your closing comments—even if it’s simply appreciating the author's passion for the topic they wrote about. It’s easy to get bogged down in criticism, so try to offer some encouragement in the “What did the author do well?” section.
Sometimes a document contains higher order issues that the author needs to address (rather than you as the editor). For example, if you’re editing a personal statement and it’s downright dry and boring, tell the writer that! If the writer’s argument doesn’t make sense or you can’t understand their purpose, let them know! Wouldn’t you want someone to tell you? Friends and family are hesitant to point out larger issues or say an author’s writing misses the mark.
Da-da-daaaaa... Kibin to the rescue!
*cue you putting on your Kibin Cape*
It’s okay to tell users that their writing isn’t... well... up to snuff. But try to give them some ideas on how to fix it when you do. Above all, don’t be a jerk about it. Nobody responds well to harshly worded criticism. It’s mean, pointless, and not tolerated here in the Kibin community. If you’re not sure how to deliver bad news in a nice manner, please go practice notifying little children that Santa doesn’t exist. You didn’t get kicked in the shin? Great, you’re ready to edit!