FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
The first thing I need to know to determine pricing is whether you have a complete manuscript. Quotes for copy editing, developmental editing, and manuscript critiques are based on word count. If you need story coaching or writing instruction for a work in progress, the quote will be based on consulting hours. Editing prices range from .02 to .08 per word, depending on what condition your manuscript is in and on whether you want copy or developmental editing. (Current rates can be found on the Editorial Freelance Association website.) My coaching fees are for a monthly commitment of four 60-minute sessions. The length of the contract depends on the scope of the project. Either 3 or 6 months is the norm. I want to stress that, no matter what stage of writing you're in or what your budget is, there are many ways I can support you. Of course, I'd love for you to hire me, but if we are not able to work on a project together, I still hope to be a resource for you. I hold free office hours every Tuesday morning to talk about anything related to writing (call-in info is on my website) and I write a weekly newsletter/blog about writing and inspiration.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
We begin by establishing where you are with your manuscript. Are you happy with it? Does it need a copy edit or a deeper dive into the structure and craft of the narrative? I also want to know what your writing life is like and how this project fits into it. You may be excited about improving it and doing the necessary rewrites or edits. Or you may be at the point where you're tired of this manuscript and ready to hand it off to be polished so you can move on to something new. I enjoy helping you seeing tangible results (especially if it means getting a finished book in your hands!) so I focus on what your goals are and what plan of action will most effectively get you there.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a degree in journalism and worked for 20+ years as a marketing copywriter on national brands like McDonald's, Kellogg's, Sara Lee, and more. I'm an expert in living the life of a creative professional! I understand the challenges that all writers face, and I've slain my share of cave trolls. I've been in the trenches and have developed the discipline to write a novel, a memoir, a children's book, and a weekly blog for nearly two years. I was also a student for nearly a decade of Jerry Cleaver's Writers' Loft in Chicago, one of the longest-running and most successful writing groups around. Much of the craft and technique I apply comes from his bestselling book "Immediate Fiction."