FAQs
If you’ve been hunkered over your writing for years, working with a coach might be new to you. Let me answer a few questions about how coaching works. Not seeing your question answered here? You can always email me!
What do we do in coaching?
I structure my coaching around you! We’ll meet via Zoom to learn a little more about one another and talk about where you’re struggling with your writing. Sometimes the answer to “What do you need help with?” is “I don’t know!” We’ll figure it out together.
What will our first meeting be like?
We’ll start by getting to know one another. You’ll send me a 1,000-word sample of your writing before the meetup. I’ll review it and add sample line edits to show you sentence-level improvements you can make right away. I’ll also give you a one- to two-page assessment of your work. I’ll identify your strengths and point out some opportunities for improvement. Then we’ll meet for 30 minutes to talk it over and decide where to go from there.
What does the first session cost?
I charge a flat $125 for the first session, which includes a review of your work, line edits, a one- to two-page assessment, and a 30-minute session with me over Zoom.
What types of writers do you work with?
I can help most any writer improve. I especially love working with personal essay and memoir writers. I’m also known for making complicated topics accessible for everyday readers. I’m less comfortable with academic writing or hard news. If you’re uncertain whether we’re a fit, let’s meet up for a 15-minute video chat to find out. Just email me to request a meeting.
What does coaching cost after the initial meeting?
That’s the beauty of it—we get to decide together based on what you need. I assemble bespoke packages for each writer I work with. You might decide you want to meet only when you need a little help. We can do that! Or, if you want ongoing guidance and a coach to help you stay accountable, we can do that, too. I’m here to help you set and meet your writing goals, plain and simple.
Does my writing need to be polished before we work together?
Nope. You can bring something unfinished. You can admit you’re stuck. You can say, “I think there’s something here, but I can’t find it.” Curiosity and a willingness to try things will give us plenty to work with.
What if I disagree with your suggestions?
Tell me. That’s part of the conversation. I have opinions. Plenty of them. But you get the final say in your writing. I’ll explain my suggestions and ask questions about your choices so you can decide what works for you.