What does a book coach do?

I like to think of a book coach as your biggest cheerleader, collaborator and sounding board for all your ideas.

As a book coach, I will guide authors through the book writing process, helping them to stay organised, brainstorm ideas and get their book ready for publishing.

The purpose of book coaching:
▪️prevent issues from creeping into the manuscript to begin with
▪️collaborate on your writing project with regular check-ins
▪️provide feedback and guidance as the writing progresses

How much does a book coach cost?

When choosing a book coach, it's essential to consider your budget, goals and the level of support you need. All of these things will significantly impact the cost of coaching.

As with any investment, it's a good idea to research multiple coaches, ask for references and have a consultation to discuss your needs and ensure a good fit before making a commitment.

Are book coaches worth it?

This entirely depends on your experience, needs and project.

However, the benefits you receive from book coaching begin immediately and last long after your book is complete. Some of the biggest benefits are that your book receives intensive 1:1 development and you finish with writing skills that you’ll use the rest of your career.

Here's what previous clients of mine have said:

What does a book coach certification look like?

While I have years of experience working with authors as an editor and proofreader, it’s important to me that I trained in book coaching as well.

Over the past year I have been working through The Author Accelerator programme to become a fully qualified book coach. 

This included training modules, assessments and practice work with book coaching clients in Australia and the US. Once a month I get on call with other book coaches in Australia and New Zealand to catch up, collaborate and share ideas.

What's the difference between an editor and a book coach?

Editing and book coaching serve different purposes in the writing process, although there can be some overlap in what’s provided. Here's a breakdown of the key differences between editing and book coaching:

1) Focus:

Editors work on refining the language, structure, style and grammar of the manuscript to improve its readability.

While book coaches help writers develop their ideas, refine their writing skills and navigate the challenges of writing a book.

2) Content:

There are several different types of editing and levels of support you can opt for. Whether that’s big-picture feedback with a developmental edit or the finer details with a copy edit.

Book coaching can include brainstorming and outlining, setting goals and timelines, providing feedback and encouragement, offering strategies for overcoming writer's block and navigating the publishing process.

3) Role:

Editors generally give feedback and revisions directly on the manuscript, with a focus on improving the text itself.

Whereas, book coaches are mentors and partners to writers. They may provide feedback on the writing itself but also offer support with the overall writing process and project management.

4) Goals:

The goal of editing is to polish the manuscript and get it ready to be published.

The goal of book coaching is to help writers develop their books from start to finish, providing the support and resources needed to overcome obstacles and bring their vision to life.

Book coaching might be for you if you're looking for:

• a project manager and accountability partner who can help you stay focused, motivated and moving in a productive direction.
• an experienced writing mentor who can help you improve your prose and storytelling abilities.
• a brainstorming partner who can help you overcome plot and character challenges.
  

Are you ready to work with a book coach? Let’s chat about your needs and see if I’m the right person to work with. Send me an email at: leanne@inredpencil.co.nz

Getting started on your writing journey?

This is the roadmap you need to plan your project, source support at the right time and stay on track with tips from a professional editor.
From deciding on your idea and creating a solid outline, to revising what you’ve written and marketing yourself, this guide covers it all.

I’ve taken my years of experience, top tips and strategies used with clients and compiled them into this guide.

Click below for your free guide on how to write a book.