Working with a writing coach can help you improve your skills, get feedback, and achieve your goals. But how do you make sure that you don't lose your own voice and style in the process? Here are some tips on how to balance your voice with a writing coach.
Not all writing coaches are the same. Some may focus more on grammar, structure, or genre, while others may emphasize creativity, voice, or expression. Before you hire a coach, make sure you know what you want to work on and what kind of guidance you need. Look for a coach who has experience and expertise in your field, genre, or style, and who can respect and support your voice.
A coach can help you improve but don't lose your own voice. Working with a writing coach can be tricky. You want to get better but keep your own style. Here's how I did it. First, I picked a coach who knows my kind of writing. We talked about what I want to achieve and how she can help. Then, I got feedback from her. It was helpful but I didn't follow it blindly. I kept what felt true to my style. After some time, I looked at my work. It was better but still sounded like me. So, the lesson is: a coach can help you improve, but don't lose your own voice.
I don’t think you choose your coach or mentor only considering what you want to work on. You choose them when their voice resonates with yours. Expression is a language in itself, and every writer speaks a different language. You have to find the one you can understand, the one you can communicate with. No two writers understand the same vocabulary, the same turn of phrase, the same metaphor, the same word-play, the same wit.. Find someone who can inspire you to write better, not teach you to write better.
Well, to be honest, I think selecting the right writing coach is akin to choosing a dance partner—you both need to move in sync. - Focus Areas: Coaches vary in their expertise, from grammar and structure to creativity and voice. Know what you're looking to refine before diving in. - Align Objectives: Make sure your goals and the coach's expertise are in harmony. Whether it's genre-specific advice or general writing skills, alignment is key. - Voice Support: Choose a coach who not only has the credentials but also the empathy to respect and nurture your unique voice. I am sure that with the right guide, your writing will not just improve; it will flourish.
I think a good writing coach understands your style and helps you leverage it, ultimately giving you a unique writing style, no matter what you write.
I firmly believe in resonating mutual synergy with other person whom you want to share your thoughts with. Until it resonates, you can not express your thoughts. Every person has different thought process, skills, abilities, learning & coaching style, varying creativity level, etc. and based on that you connect with them. The like minded people will have stronger bond in terms of knowledge sharing irrespective of their expertise in the same area. Finding a coach with right mindset who can guide you well through ups and downs of your journey is very much important.
Once you have a coach, be clear about what you expect from them and what they expect from you. Discuss your goals, deadlines, budget, and preferences. Tell them what kind of feedback you want and how you want to receive it. Do you prefer written comments, phone calls, or video chats? Do you want them to be gentle, honest, or tough? Do you want them to suggest changes, ask questions, or offer praise? Communication is key to establishing a good relationship with your coach and avoiding misunderstandings.
Every coach has a different way of working. Thus, be sure to ask them how they work. For example, during the introduction call, I make it a point to tell my writing coaches I do not embellish my feedback. This helps them to decide if I am the right coach for them. If your writing coach doesn't talk about this, make sure you do!
When you receive feedback from your coach, don't take it personally or defensively. Remember that they are trying to help you improve your writing, not criticize your personality or talent. Listen to their suggestions and try to understand their reasoning. Ask questions if you are unsure or confused. Don't dismiss their feedback without giving it a fair chance. You may learn something new or discover a different perspective.
The value of the feedback given by your writing coach will largely depend on how open you are with them on the purpose of your book or article. If a comment doesn't seem right, talk about it with your writing coach. Maybe they didn't have all the information they needed to fully give you the rightful feedback.
While you should be open to feedback and willing to make changes, you don't have to agree with everything your coach says or do everything they tell you. You are the author of your work, and you have the final say. Your voice is what makes your writing unique and authentic. Don't let your coach change it to fit their preferences or expectations. Instead, use their feedback as a tool to enhance your voice, not erase it.
Nothing is as complicated as finding your voice in your writing and your business. So, when you find it, hold on to it! You have, for example, a more serious, objective tone of voice. A writing coach can help you to insert a little less formality into it, but should not try to change it into a fun, crazy tone of voice.
As you work with your coach, keep track of your progress and achievements. Review your drafts and compare them to your previous versions. Notice how your writing has improved, what challenges you have overcome, and what goals you have reached. Celebrate your successes and acknowledge your efforts. Also, evaluate your satisfaction and comfort with your coach. Do you feel that they are helping you grow as a writer? Do you enjoy working with them? Do you trust them? If not, you may need to adjust or end the coaching relationship.
Making sure that the relationship with my coachees is productive at all times is one of my priorities. After each session, my coachees are sent a feedback form. This allows them to reflect back on the session and share any thoughts they have. If your writing coach hasn't put in place a similar process, take the time after each session to sit down. Go over your notes, and think about your session. If something is not working for you, communicate it to them!
Working with a writing coach can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. You can learn new skills, get valuable insights, and achieve your writing dreams. But don't forget to have fun along the way. Write about what you love, express yourself freely, and experiment with different techniques. Your voice is your gift to the world. Share it with confidence and joy.
As a writing coach, it's imperative to me that my clients enjoy the process of us working together. We're here to help support you! You and your goals are the focus of the coaching. A great coach can and will call out your strengths and help boost your confidence. If that's not happening, you might ask for referrals for other writing coaches.
Help your writing coach by helping yourself! Before working with one, make sure you have done everything you could do yourself. For example, have you written already a couple of articles or lines? Did you sit down and note down what you learned about this experience? It will help you to get crystal clear on what exactly you want to get out of your relationship with your writing coach.