FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Reading comprehension and improving writing skills aren't really a one-shot situation, so that's hourly, with a negotiated discount after six sessions . If client needs essay or dissertation help, that's project-based pricing, with payment usually being broken into thirds (front, middle, final payment). It's a sad fact that many writers get stiffed by waiting until completion to submit or receive monies due. I tend to take a bit less when working with kids on reading and writing, its a part of my giving back philosophy.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Interviewing is always a priority-- determining what a person wants and needs in real terms is a Must Do. I'm good on the phone, but actually putting ideas down on paper from face-face meetings is favored. As a long time salesperson, its true that nothing happens until papers get signed. Your ideas at our first meeting probably won't always get actionable responses, although they become our basis of working together. Whether hourly or with an overall expectation of time and resources basis, we'll need to develop an economic plan that works. I've had connections with potential long distance writers needing editing-proofreading of 70-85,000 words, which is never a one-shot situation. For a client like that, I'll usually provide three chapters (about 60 pages) of reading with commentary @ 50% of hourly rate. If we decide to go forward, terms are almost always 1/2 payment for half edited, the remainder at time of submission. Depending on changes, and writers often want far too many to think about doing 'free', I will negotiate a fair second edit.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Journalism-Communications was part of my double major in college, and a daily sales background helps when I'm coaching those who want to improve speaking effectiveness. I've frequently become the Secretary of organizations I belong to because that puts me in charge of getting information to others. As a realtor, I wrote RESPONDER-1, a blog for my potential fire fighter niche clients. As an administrative associate, I've accumulated about 15 years worth of report generation and compilation-editing expertise. As a sports, business, feature writer and consistent blogger, I think its legitimate to practice regularly. I've edited a children's read-along book and my own self-published novel, and have just submitted a 55,000 word sequel to 'Cards & Consequences'.