Why You Need an Old Goat of a Writer to Review Your Writing

Most people agree that the best way to become a good writer is to read anything and everything you can lay your hands on. And the second-best way is to practice.

Write. Write until your fingers bleed.

This article focuses on the third best way to become a good writer: constructive feedback.

Why get someone else to review your writing?

Okay, so you read. You practiced until your fingerprints vanished. And still, you have this niggly feeling that something is not quite right with your writing.

The best way to get rid of that niggly feeling?

Get someone reliable to review your writing.

As a writer, I know how daunting it can be to receive criticism on your writing. You've spent countless hours pouring your heart and soul onto the page. The thought of handing your work over to someone else to critique can be discouraging.

Trust me, though, getting feedback on your writing is an essential part of the writing process.

By focusing on specific strengths and weaknesses and providing actionable suggestions for improvement, reviewers help writers improve their writing and become better writers.

Constructive criticism and feedback improve writing skills for the future and nurture growth.

Who should I ask to review my writing?

Start here: Implore, bribe, or beg an experienced writer (check their credentials first) to do a free review of your writing. If you can't find someone you trust to do it for free, then you will have to search online for an editor or writing coach who does writing reviews. The fees charged for this service will differ.

Alternatively, keep an eye out for my freebies—I give them out occasionally. But you have to be quick!

Be sure to connect with me on LinkedIn, where I occasionally include them in my posts.

If you were one of those who missed out on my freebie reviews, all is not lost.

You can still get my full review and candid feedback to help you grow as a skilled writer.

But this time, you have to pay—not too much. I've been in your shoes, so I keep my rates as low as possible. But I have to eat—those olives in my salad don't come cheap.

Client response after I reviewed her manuscript.

The Review' Nitty Gritties'

These are the steps you need to follow to ensure a smooth review process.

1. What you will need to send me:

Two to three pieces of your non-fiction writing.

It can be a blog article, a social media post, or even a chapter of your book.

2. How will you get it to me?

Contact me for details of formats and where to send your stuff.

I prefer working with MS Word docs because it's easy to add feedback and comments.

However, I also work with Google Docs and PDFs.

3. What you will get:

100% focused attention on your content pieces.

Detailed reviews and constructive feedback, or as my friend Neela calls it, feedforward.

I also throw in some edits so you can see what an editor sees when reading your writing.

Why….

Getting feedback on your writing is invaluable for identifying areas for improvement. You will also learn how to self-edit and polish up your writing skills for the future.

4. How much will it cost you?

This will depend on how much you send me to review.

Send me a book; it's going to cost you a lot and will take time.

Send me a few short pieces of content; it will cost you much less than you think.

Find your "old goat"—get that feedback

Having your writing reviewed and edited by an experienced writer, editor, and writing coach is a great way to learn how to avoid certain repetitive errors, identify your writing strengths and weaknesses, and improve your writing style.

Besides the old goat, who else can I ask?

You can also ask your peers, colleagues, family, and friends to provide you with feedback on your writing. To ensure you get honest and useful feedback, be sure to let them know exactly what you want critiqued or provide a checklist.

Aim for honest and constructive feedback, not just praise.

Remember, a reviewer's goal is to help you improve your draft, not to tear you down. It is important for you to keep an open mind and be willing to consider suggestions for improvement. Feedback is an opportunity to learn and grow as a writer.

Happy Writing

Shamila

Old Goat = Experienced Writer

As a writing mentor and coach, I am on a mission to empower aspiring writers to get their ideas out there.

I have worked with many people, from those who genuinely fear writing and posting on social media to those who simply need to polish their first drafts before publishing.

Check out my services for a full breakdown of how I can help you reach your writing goals. When you are ready, book a call or send me your writing.