What does a writing coach do?
My role as a writing coach is varied. It’s part coach (helping you to meet your goals), part consultant (guiding you on different aspects of the writing and publishing process), and part editor/ teacher (to help you improve your writing craft and write the best book you can).
As a coach, I’ll help and encourage, hold you accountable, cheer you on and ask the right questions to help you plan and write your winning book.
As an experienced writing teacher and qualified educator, I’ll guide you through the book writing process from start to finish using my talk.write.done approach, complete with exercises and deadlines to keep you on track.
As a language expert with a doctorate in Applied Educational Linguistics, with me, you’ll not just get your book written, but you’ll hone your craft – all the way from big idea and project plan down to the words on the page.
Should I hire a writing coach or an editor?
When I decided to run a marathon back in 2007, I read as much as a could about running. But apart from enlisting a buddy to join me on my training runs, I didn’t seek any help.
Certainly not any professional help.
Did I finish the marathon? Yes, but it was painful and slow. I also ended up with injuries that could have been avoided had I found the right help.
When I decided to start a business, I did things differently and hired a business coach. She helped me tremendously in the first year, acting as a cheerleader, mentor and someone I could call on for advice.
If you’re a coach, consultant or educator, you already know the benefits of working with an expert to help you through an experience or to meet your goals.
So why not hire an expert to help you meet your writing goals?
If you’re a more independent writer, perhaps you’ve already written a first draft of your book, but it needs pulling into shape, deciding what to include or leave out, then I can help you with my bespoke editing services.
What does a developmental editor do?
When I work with a client on developmental editing (sometimes called substantive editing), we’re interested in the big picture of the book.
Does the manuscript meet the overall aim or promise of the book?
Is there anything missing content-wise, or is there anything that doesn’t need to be there?
Have you positioned yourself as a credible source? Is the order of the manuscript logical?
Has you made any assumptions about what the reader may know?
While I don’t provide a line-by-line edit or proofread your work, I will point out any inconsistencies so that your manuscript will be in much better shape when you do send it to a proofreader.
Can you improve the ‘style’ of my writing?
Yes. As well as developmental editing, I also provide line editing services to help with the flow and style of your writing. As an applied linguist, I respect your author voice throughout.
Who do you work with?
I’m open to hearing about educational and transformational nonfiction book projects.
I’d love to hear about your project and see if we’re a good fit. If not, I’ll do my best to point you in the direction of a colleague who can help!
Tell me about your project and request a follow-up call/ email.
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What my clients are saying
As a first-time author, I was given valuable advice, not only about my book and on how to keep writing, but also to start my author platform.
As a result of our sessions, I started writing consistently and would encourage anyone thinking about 1:1 book coaching to get in touch with Lizzy to get started.
Thank you Lizzy, I love your excellent communications and being willing to look over my work to provide a better direction for where my draft is heading.
Shirley Chang @shirleychangbooks
I have wanted to write this book for years, but it felt like a lot to take on. I am finally ready and with Lizzy’s help, I have the structure I need to actually make it happen. I feel so much momentum and clarity now. Lizzy has a knack for truly hearing you and then helping you to weave what you’re hoping to say into an authentic message and feel for your book.
Hilary Anthony, Equine Guided Facilitator and Holistic Coach
