A few weeks back, I asked a question in my newsletter. I wanted to know what people *really* needed help with writing-wise.
Common themes emerged: Accountability. Encouragement. Guidance.
Writing...it isn't easy for most people. Pair that with busy schedules, being our own worst critics, and not knowing what to write about, and it's easy to see why so many people opt to *NOT* write anything at all.
So, here's a question: Do you need a writing coach?
Or, maybe the better question is: Would you benefit from working with one?
This type of arrangement comes in many forms, but in this instance, I'm referring to a guide and accountability partner. Someone experienced in writing often and writing well who can help you establish and maintain a practice of your own.
These efforts might become a newsletter, regular blog articles for your website, or even a creative writing project, like a book or a short story.
Here are a few thoughts if this is something you're mulling over.
What kind of writing coach do you need?
Coaching works best when people know their ideal learning styles.
There are different ways to go about coaching, so it's important to figure out how YOU best learn.
Ask yourself:
Do you want a coach who offers a firehose of information, answers to all your questions, and plenty of resources to explore?
Or do you need someone who is more of a listener and can help you improve and troubleshoot as you go?
Other things to consider:
Some prefer self-directed online courses, which allow you to work at your own pace without being on a specific timetable. The course route also allows you to study a very specific subject matter (like "how to write like a journalist" or "writing to drive sales") rather than something more open-ended.
Others like the accountability factor of having to check in with somebody once a week for feedback and guidance on homework or to-do list items.
Pro tip: Ask to speak with past clients. Talking to those who've already worked with this person can help you get honest feedback. The last thing you want is to get on board and find that you don't relate with the coach or don't like his or her communication style.
You know you. What's ideal? What's realistic for you?
How much can you afford to spend on a coach?
A writing coach whose sessions cost you $1,000 total is a smaller-scale investment in the scope of coaching offerings.
If said coach helped you launch and get consistent with a newsletter that now gets supported by sponsors, it paid for itself many times over.
A writing coach who helped you start publishing articles that helped you land new clients was worth its weight in gold.
On the other hand, if you're considering a writing coaching program asking for a one-year investment of say, $12,000, you'll need to vet it extremely carefully.
This is a huge commitment, and you'll want to ensure you're at the right point in your business to earn back that money and gain maximum value from it. 💸💸💸
How do you get the most value from a writing coach?
Before investing in coaching, have a clear idea of the outcomes you can expect.
The writers who fare best with a coach are those who have a clear idea of their goals. This helps the coach offer better, more relevant recommendations to help their clients get where they want to be.
Here's a surprising truth: Writing coaches often find people paying for coaching just because they want some human contact. 😱
While it's up to each person to decide if that’s a good use of their time, it's may not the best use of their money. Instead, finding writing communities, making friends where you live, or going to therapy could be better alternatives. (Not sarcasm!)
Similarly, be wary of writing coaches advertising things they can't deliver. No one can guarantee you'll land a book deal or become a newsletter millionaire; that's not the purpose of coaching.
A realistic outcome is to help you navigate roadblocks and guide you in your writing journey, helping you expand and improve your skills along the way.
🎙️Listen: My co-host and I discussed this topic at length here.
Invest in a writing coach for the right reasons
If you're struggling with your writing efforts, you're not alone.
Coaching can help you with accountability, spotting and improving your weaknesses around your writing work, and building up your confidence as a writer.
Coaching is not a perfect science. It's a way to offer advice, insight, and perspective.
When you're stuck, confused, and ready for some writing guidance from an experienced pro, it can be a step in the right direction.
Want me to be your writing coach?
It's been several years since I've offered my one-on-one coaching sessions, but I've decided to open a few slots starting this month.
OR: If you don’t need a four-week intensive but want help troubleshooting a few things around your writing work, I also have one-time calls available.
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