The Mysteries of Book Coaching Explained

Twice this week I've received e-mails asking for book writing advice and about book coaching. TCK Publishing wrote that most people have no idea what a book consultant or book coach even does. And I agree, which is why I will explain here exactly what I do.  I have no set formula for when I coach someone who wants to write a book because every experience is different; people are at different points in their writing or understanding of how the writing and publishing processes work. I approach each coaching relationship with fresh eyes and tailor the program, assignments, and guidance based on the needs of the person who hires me. Coaching should not be a one-size (or style) fits all model. 

During our first meeting, we discuss goals, timelines, workloads, dedication, proposed routes to take (self-publishing? want help finding an agent and publisher?) and then set up an initial program with assignments that can get you where you want to go and that can then be modified as needs change. Some clients I've worked with want to fast-track their writing and publishing process and may be done in months so we meet either in person or electronically frequently. Other clients, I've worked with for years and years as they wrote and edited and evolved their projects much more slowly so we meet less frequently. Neither method is better or worse as long as it meets the goals of the author. And both timelines and any in between are included with my package deal coaching in the products section of this website.  

In my forthcoming book, Creating the Freelance Career, chapter six is devoted to the publishing of books, articles, songs, and artwork, but its primary focus is on book publishing. Understanding how it all works is important. Having other people read your work and provide feedback, either in a writing group or in a professional coaching situation, is equally as valuable. I worked with my first writing coach when I was 14, and I've been in writing groups on and off since about that age, too. I've learned so much from my coaches and my fellow writers, and that's why I've taught classes on how to get published and do coaching myself. I believe its important to share our knowledge and to work together to create the best things we can create.   

An initial consultation is free, so if you've always want to write a book and need the help of someone who has been there and done that--and who has been published by traditional publishers as well as self-published--send me an e-mail, and let's set up a time to talk. Publishing Perspectives reports that 200 million Americans want to write a book, if you're one of those people, stop dreaming and start writing. And seek out a book coach if you need some guidance. 

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