Search Results

As an author, finding the perfect tool for promoting your books amid the ever-saturated market can be a challenging experience. A powerful tool that has gained immense popularity in recent years is the webinar . Webinars have proven to be a fantastic way to connect you to your ideal audience and expand your reach. These dynamic virtual gatherings are for more than just corporate presentations or marketing pitches. They provide an avenue for your words to come to life, your unique voice to resonate in real time, and your stories to reach corners of the world you might have never imagined. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how authors can successfully utilize these interactive sessions to widen their reach, enhance visibility, and connect with their ideal audience. Contents: 1. Understanding the Potential of Webinars 2. The Significance of Webinars for Authors 3. Crafting Compelling Webinar Content 4. Effective Promotion of Webinars 5. Hosting a Successful Webinar 6. Analyzing Author Webinar Impact 7. Conclusion Understanding the Potential of Webinars Imagine a virtual auditorium where writers gather as passive spectators or active participants. These gatherings offer a stage where your thoughts can dance, your experiences can resonate, and your stories can find their echo. Webinars have revolutionized how authors interact with their audience by providing a dynamic platform for writers to present live workshops and discuss their works, all while allowing real-time engagement. The interactive nature of webinars nurtures a sense of community and trust, making them an essential tool for authors seeking to extend their influence. The Significance of Webinars for Authors Webinars have become a transformative tool for book authors by offering several significant empowerments, as listed below. Expanding Reach through Webinars One of the main advantages of authors hosting webinars is the ability to expand their reach. Writers can go beyond physical distances and connect with their readers globally, breaking free from the constraints of traditional local audiences. Webinars aren't just about presentations; they're about cultivating a community of participants from different corners of the globe. This global reach broadens an author’s readership and introduces their work to diverse cultures and perspectives, enriching their content and nurturing a more engaged readership. Connecting with your readers across the globe. Establishing Authority and Credibility In the ever-competitive world of writing, establishing authority and credibility is paramount. Webinars can be a means for authors to showcase their expertise. Imagine stepping onto a virtual platform, armed not just with your words but with a wealth of knowledge and insights that only you possess. It is not a one-sided monologue but a carefully orchestrated performance where you unveil the inner workings of your creative mind. By discussing your works, delving into the depths of your research, and candidly sharing your journey, you're offering your audience an exclusive backstage pass to your writing universe. Discussing work and addressing burning questions in real time is a strategy for writers to position themselves as trusted authorities in their respective niches. Direct interaction between an author and their audience enhances credibility and fosters a deeper connection. Forging Authentic Connections Webinars are way beyond being just one-way communication. These virtual meetings foster authentic and meaningful interactions. Imagine you're hosting a webinar, and as you speak, you notice a flurry of messages popping up in the chat, questions, comments, and even the occasional witty remark. At that moment, the screen doesn't separate you from your audience, instead, it's a thread that weaves you into a collective conversation. This interaction isn't just about imparting knowledge; it's about building a community that resonates with your words. Unlike static blog posts, webinars create opportunities for participants to engage in live discussions, ask questions, and receive immediate responses. This way, a writer can empathize with their audience's challenges, creating a sense of relatability and trust that solidifies the writer-reader relationship. Crafting Compelling Webinar Content As authors, our innate ability to weave words has the potential to craft captivating webinar content. You must prioritize creating engaging content for your online workshop just like you give attention to blogs or articles. Below are some tips for crafting engaging webinar content. Select Only Themes That Speak to your Craft Choosing a relevant theme is fundamental to the success of your presentation. As an author, you should be able to pick out subjects that mirror your creative forte and strike a chord with your fellow wordsmiths. These could be discussions on the intricate dance of writing techniques, the age-old battle against writer's block, the expedition into novel literary trends, or even the uncovering of the alchemy behind writing success. Each theme should resonate with your author community, addressing some challenges and aspirations fueling their creative fires. The aim should be to share knowledge and offer a guiding light through the labyrinth of an author's journey. Set your topics as maps leading fellow writers through uncharted territories of creativity, productivity, and literary insight. Structure Engaging Presentations Your ability to craft an engaging webinar experience hinges on the precision with which you structure your presentation, much like the delicate threading of plotlines in your stories. Start with a captivating introduction that sets the stage for what participants will gain from the session. As you structure your presentation, think of it as the chapters of a book. Each segment should flow logically, like the progression of events in a narrative. From outlining writing techniques to unraveling the intricacies of character development, each part should seamlessly lead to the next, creating a narrative arc that keeps your audience hooked. Visual aids, much like descriptive imagery in your prose, enhance comprehension and engagement. In the same way you paint scenes with words, you can amplify your points with well-designed slides. Imagine your content coming to life on the screen, transforming abstract ideas into tangible concepts that participants can grasp and internalize. Share your Writers Perspective One of the primary components of webinar content is the writer's perspective. Writers possess a unique journey and insights that can enrich the content. Your journey as a writer is not just a personal story. It is a treasure trove of experiences that can add flair to your webinar content. Share personal anecdotes, challenges, and lessons learned. Remember, it should not just be about showcasing the triumphs but also about revealing the struggles. Your hurdles become stepping stones for aspiring writers who walk the path you have traversed. As you discuss your moments of uncertainty and the victories that followed, it offers solace to those facing similar challenges. Effective Promotion of Webinars While crafting compelling narratives may be your forte, promoting your webinar requires a distinct set of skills. Here are some effective means for promoting your virtual seminar. Creatively Utilize Social Media In a world connected by the internet, your words can transcend borders, time zones, and continents. Leveraging social media is a potent strategy for promoting webinars. Tease your audience with snippets, anecdotes, and hints of what's to come. It's like unraveling a mystery, layer by layer, until the grand reveal during your webinar becomes the ultimate plot twist. Leverage appropriate hashtags and writer-centric groups to expand your audience. Consider them as routes that guide interested individuals to your online presence. Choose hashtags that connect with writers and participate in writer-focused groups where your writing aligns with like-minded enthusiasts. It is not just about visibility, it's about finding your tribe in the digital landscape. Collaborate with Writing Influencers A collaboration with writing influencers will heighten the visibility of your webinar. Identify respected figures within the writing community and propose co-hosted webinars or cross-promotional efforts. This isn't just about visibility, it's about creating a chorus of wisdom that enriches the writing journey for all. When the power of two authors unites, it nurtures insights and perspectives that are more potent than either could offer alone. Such partnerships introduce your content to new audiences and lend credibility to your webinar, giving participants more reason to attend. Build a Dedicated Email List Your email subscriber list can be a valuable asset for promoting webinars. Send personalized invitations to your subscribers, highlighting the value they stand to gain from attending. Remember, an invitation isn't complete without a call to action. Just as your words are driven by motivations, your email's purpose should be to guide your readers toward a destination. Add a clear call-to-action (CTA) that beckons them to register. Always consider the power of incentives. Consider offering incentives to your potential participants, such as exclusive discounts, bonus resources, or a reward for their commitment to the literary journey you're orchestrating. Hosting a Successful Webinar The journey to hosting a successful webinar is similar to embarking on a quest, and every step taken determines the outcome. Here are the step-by-step processes you should take for a successful presentation. Technical Preparation Before hosting a webinar, thorough technical preparation is essential. Test your equipment, internet connection, and webinar platform to prevent any last-minute glitches. Familiarize yourself with features like screen sharing, polls, and Q&A sessions to ensure a seamless experience for participants. Some of the best webinar platforms include Zoom, GoTo Webinar, and ON24. Remember, technical preparation is not just a checklist but a must-do. Engaging Delivery Engagement is crucial to a successful webinar. Deliver your content with enthusiasm and confidence. Encourage participant interaction through polls, quizzes, and Q&A sessions. Address questions and comments in real time, creating a dynamic and participatory atmosphere for engagement. In webinars, engagement is not just a tactic but a philosophy. It is the understanding that every participant is not just an attendee but a co-creator of the experience. Your enthusiasm becomes their enthusiasm, your engagement their engagement. Post-Webinar Follow-up The engagement does not stop once the webinar concludes. Send a post-webinar follow-up email to participants, expressing gratitude for their attendance. Provide a recording of the webinar for those who could not join live, along with any additional resources mentioned. Gather feedback through surveys to gather insights for improving future webinars. Your follow-up email should not just be a formality, it should be an invitation to stay connected. As you extend your gratitude, endeavor to share resources, thereby gathering insights. Analyzing Author Webinar Impact Just as writers analyze the impact of their words on readers, assessing the influence of your webinar is an essential chapter in the narrative, as it offers glimpses into the hearts and minds of those who joined. Here are ways you can analyze the impact of your webinar. Measure Reach and Engagement To evaluate the success of your webinars, measure reach and engagement metrics. Monitor the number of participants, the duration of their engagement, and the level of interactivity. Review feedback and comments to gauge the impact your webinar had on the audience. This evaluation helps you understand how well your webinars are performing, how much attention they attract, and how engaged the participants are during the session. Here's a breakdown of some key points: Reach The reach refers to the number of participants who attended your webinar. This metric is a quantitative measure of how many people were exposed to your content. It can be a crucial indicator of your webinar's initial success in terms of attracting an audience. Engagement This metric focuses on understanding how involved and interested participants were during the webinar. Some important engagement metrics include: Duration of Engagement It is a measure of the average time participants spend watching your webinar. Longer engagement times generally indicate that your content was valuable and held the audience's attention. Interaction Levels It analyzes the extent to which participants interacted with your webinar content. This could include asking questions, participating in polls or surveys, clicking on links, or using chat features. Higher interaction levels suggest that your content was engaging and encouraged active participation. Interactivity Interactivity is the level of back-and-forth communication between you and your audience. It is vital to monitor how many questions were asked, how many were answered, and the overall participation in Q&A sessions. A high level of interactivity indicates that your webinar created an environment where participants felt comfortable engaging and seeking clarification. Feedback and Comments Gathering feedback and reviewing comments provides qualitative insights into how well your webinar resonated with the audience. Positive feedback, constructive suggestions, and valuable insights can help you understand what aspects of your webinar were impactful and what areas need improvement. Impact Assessment After analyzing all metrics collectively, you can assess the overall impact your webinar had on the audience. Did participants find value in your content? Did they learn something new? Did your webinar meet their expectations? These are vital questions to answer to gauge the success of your webinar. Refining Strategies Based on the collected data, refine your webinar strategies. Identify the topics that resonated most with your audience and replicate their success. Address any technical or engagement challenges that come up. Continuous improvement ensures your webinars become increasingly efficient in achieving your reach expansion goals. Conclusion In today's dynamic digital landscape, authors have the power to harness the potential of webinars to connect with a global audience and build a loyal readership base. Webinars provide a platform for writers to share their expertise, engage with readers, and establish themselves as authoritative voices in their field. By thoughtfully selecting themes, crafting engaging presentations, and promoting strategically, writers can tap into the power of webinars to expand their reach and create a lasting impact. About the Author Hi, I'm Damaris, a freelance blog writer available for hire. My passion lies in the art of crafting captivating articles that educate and inform. I'm on a mission to connect your brand with its ideal audience by blending the magic of words with SEO knowledge to enhance your brand's visibility, solidify its presence, and boost conversions. When I'm not crafting masterpieces, you'll find me donning an apron as a badass grill chef or conquering Scrabble boards. Let's connect on LinkedIn , where I share my journey as a freelance blog writer and explore how I can bring your brand's story to life.

"A ghostwriter is like a chameleon, adapting to different styles and voices to create a seamless narrative." - Roz Morris, ghostwriter and author. A chameleon – I felt exactly like one when I immersed myself in the world of ghostwriting in 2021 and 2022. My family started calling me a walking encyclopedia when I couldn't settle into one topic niche but explored them all. My brain felt like it was exploding with all the different voices I had to emulate and the countless facts I had accumulated. I covered everything from journeying into the world of data analytics to exploring the benefits of petroleum jelly. While ghostwriting can be a fascinating adventure, it is also a good way to turn your writing skills into a profitable career. This guide covers everything you need to know to begin your ghostwriting journey. Contents: 1. What is Ghostwriting? 2. Why do People Need Ghostwriters? 3. Famous People Who Used Ghostwriters 4. What Are the Most Popular Ghostwritten Content Types? 5. A Deeper Look into the Difference Between Articles and Books 6. Getting Started as a Ghostwriter 7. What Not to Do as a Ghostwriter 8. Where Can a New Writer Find Ghostwriting Jobs? 9. How Much Do Ghostwriters Get Paid? 10. Resources 11. Final Thoughts What is Ghostwriting? Ghostwriting is the practice of writing for someone else, usually for a fee, and not receiving credit for your work. In other words, you write content that is attributed to your client. It's a good way for new freelance writers to enter the market and practice their writing skills. Many busy professionals and high-profile individuals require quality content to promote their businesses and brands. Ghostwriters are often hired to write blog posts, articles, social media content, speeches, and even books. I read somewhere that more than 50% of non-fiction books on the bestseller lists have ghostwriters hidden behind their covers. Some in the industry say it's possible that this number could be as high as 90%. Does this surprise you? Read on to find out why these numbers could be so high. Why do People Need Ghostwriters? There are three main reasons why business professionals and authors choose to use ghostwriters. 1. Time Constraints They don't have the time to do it themselves. Writing a book can be time-consuming, and for an author with a busy schedule, it may not be feasible to devote the necessary time and attention to writing a book. In such cases, a ghostwriter can be an excellent option, as they can take care of the writing process while the author focuses on other aspects of their work or personal life. Running a business can be incredibly time-consuming, leaving little time for writing a book. Hiring a ghostwriter allows a business person to focus on their core competencies while still having a book published under their name. 2. Lack of Writing Skills or Experience Writing a book requires a certain level of skill and experience, and not all authors have the necessary writing skills to complete a book on their own. A ghostwriter can help in such cases by writing the book on the author's behalf while preserving the author's ideas and voice. A poorly written blog can damage a business's reputation and credibility, but a professional ghostwriter can ensure the content is polished and error-free. A skilled ghostwriter can conduct research and write content relevant to the business's industry, target audience, and marketing goals. 3. Need for Objectivity Writing a self-help book, for example, can be a very personal and emotional process, and an author may find it difficult to maintain objectivity when writing about their own experiences and ideas. A ghostwriter can help in such cases by providing an objective perspective and ensuring that the book is written in a way that will resonate with readers. Famous People Who Used Ghostwriters Many bestselling authors, celebrities, and public figures work with ghostwriters to help write their books, memoirs, or autobiographies. V.C. Andrews wrote the "Flowers in the Attic" series with ghostwriter Andrew Neiderman. George Lutz worked with ghostwriter Jay Anson on "The Amityville Horror." Miley Cyrus and Tori Spelling worked with Hilary Liftin to write their memoirs. Siobhan Curham had Zoella (Zoe Sugg) help her write the novel "Girl Online." Richard Branson partnered with Edward Whitely to produce "Losing My Virginity." Wayne Rooney collaborated with Hunter Davies and Chris Hunt to write his books. J.R Moehringer, the highest paid ghostwriter in the business, penned Prince Harry's memoir. Ghostwriter Daniel Paisner has ghostwritten over 50 books for celebrities, including Serena Williams and Denzel Washington. These are just a few examples, but there are many more ghostwriters out there who have worked on a wide range of projects, from novels and memoirs to speeches and articles. According to some academics, even Shakespeare couldn't keep up with his own genius; he used a ghostwriter for some of his works! Did Shakespeare use a ghostwriter? That is the question. What Are the Most Popular Ghostwritten Content Types? Ghostwriting is a versatile service that can be applied to a wide range of content types. Some of the most popular ghostwritten content types include: Books: Ghostwriting books, especially memoirs, autobiographies, and self-help books, is one of the most common types of ghostwriting. This includes both traditional print books and e-books. Blog posts and articles: Many companies and individuals hire ghostwriters to create regular blog posts and articles for their websites or social media channels. These posts can cover a wide range of topics and industries. Social media posts: Some businesses and individuals hire ghostwriters to create posts for their social media channels, including Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. George Takei, known for his role in Star Trek, has a ghostwriter penning his Facebook and Twitter posts. Scripts and screenplays: Ghostwriters may also write scripts for YouTube videos, podcasts, television shows, movies, or other forms of media. Song Lyrics: Yes, even rappers and other artists in the music world commission ghostwriters to write for them. Nas ghostwrote Will Smith's classic 'Gettin Jiggy Wit It.' Bruno Mars was the writer behind Adele's "All I Ask." Speeches: Political figures, business leaders, and other public figures often hire ghostwriters to create speeches for them to deliver at events or on television. Barack Obama, well known for his eloquent speeches, had speech writer Jonathan Favreau composing his speeches. White papers: Companies may hire ghostwriters to create detailed reports or white papers on industry trends, new technologies, or other topics of interest to their audience. Academic papers: Some academics may hire ghostwriters to help them write research papers or other academic documents. Other content types: emails, newsletters, web copy, case studies, and online course material. Some ghostwriters specialize in more than one genre or content type. For instance, I ghostwrite SEO articles and self-help books . A Deeper Look into the Difference Between Articles and Books Ghostwriting for articles and books requires strong writing skills and the ability to research and organize information effectively, but there are significant differences in length, format, and style. Articles are shorter pieces of writing that can range from a few hundred to a few thousand words. They are written for online publications or magazines and are intended to inform, entertain, or persuade readers on a specific topic. Ghostwritten articles are more focused on providing useful information to readers and require some research and expertise in the topic area. Books are much longer and more complex than articles. Ghostwritten books can be anywhere from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of words long and are often written in a narrative format. Ghostwritten books can take several months or even years to complete and may require extensive research, multiple interviews with the author, and collaboration with publishers and editors. Books are also typically more personal and reflective than articles, as they are often written in the author's voice and tell a story or share insights into the author's life or work. Getting Started as a Ghostwriter If you are considering becoming a ghostwriter, here are some tips to help you get started: Find Your Niche Like any other freelance writing career, finding a niche in which you excel is important. Specializing in a particular area will allow you to charge higher rates and make marketing your services easier. When I began my ghostwriting adventure, I explored a range of niches until I found the ones that interested me the most, and I focused on those. Experience and Skillset You don't need ghostwriting experience, but you should have writing experience, research skills, and some editing skills. Be capable of interviewing people and be able to write on a variety of topics. Read widely to become familiar with different types of texts and styles. Being adaptable and able to write in a variety of styles is crucial to success in this field. Network Building relationships with potential clients is crucial to building a successful ghostwriting career. The best way to find clients is through networking. Attend industry events, join writing groups, and connect with professionals in your niche on LinkedIn. Practice Confidentiality Confidentiality is one of the most important aspects of ghostwriting. Your clients trust you with their personal and professional information, and it's crucial that you maintain their trust by keeping all information confidential. You can only disclose who your clients are or display their work in your portfolio if you get their permission first. Understand Your Client's Voice Voice refers to the style, tone, and personality of the writing; it's what makes the writing unique and engaging. As a ghostwriter, you need to be able to write in a way that sounds like your client wrote the content. Finding the right voice for a piece of writing can be challenging, especially for new writers. One way to do this is to review your client's previous writing to get a sense of their writing style. You can also ask your client about their preferred writing style and any specific tone or voice they want to convey. It's essential to remember that you're writing for your client's audience, not your own. This means you need to adapt your writing style to suit the audience you're writing for. For example, if you're writing for a more formal business audience, you may need to use more professional language. Ultimately, finding the right voice takes practice and experimentation. With time and experience, you'll develop the skills and confidence to write in a variety of voices and styles, making you a more versatile and valuable ghostwriter. (Welcome to the world of chameleons.) "The best ghostwriters are the ones who can capture the voice and style of the person they are writing for." - Tony Schwartz, ghostwriter and author. What Not to Do as a Ghostwriter If you are new to the ghostwriting niche, here are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind: 1. Do not expect credit for your work. 2. Do not brag about your clients or showcase their work. 3. Do take pride in your work even if your name is not on it. 4. Do not accept low rates. Never undersell yourself. 5. Do negotiate with clients for a fair rate. 6. Do not jump into ghostwriting without fully understanding what a ghostwriter does. 7. Do create original content at all times. Never copy and paste work attributed to others. This is a form of plagiarism . Where Can a New Writer Find Ghostwriting Jobs? There are several ways for a new writer to find ghostwriting jobs: Freelance platforms: Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer allow freelancers to create profiles and bid on ghostwriting jobs that clients post. Job boards: Websites like Indeed and Glassdoor have job listings for ghostwriters. You can also sign up for email alerts for new job postings. Referrals: Ask friends, family, or colleagues if they know of anyone who needs a ghostwriter. Social media: Use social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter to network with potential clients and showcase your writing skills. Ghostwriting agencies: There are agencies that specialize in ghostwriting services, and you can reach out to them and submit your writing samples for consideration. Publishers: Many publishing companies hire ghostwriters to provide an additional service option to their authors. Guest posting: Showcase your writing skills and grow your portfolio by writing guest posts on blogs. Ghostwriting jobs can be competitive, so it's important to have a strong portfolio, excellent writing skills, and good communication skills to succeed in this field. Additionally, get used to the fact that you won't receive credit for the work you do, as ghostwriting is a confidential service. How Much Do Ghostwriters Get Paid? The payment for ghostwriters can vary widely based on the complexity of the project, the length of the work, the expertise and experience of the ghostwriter, and the type of publication or medium. Ghostwriters can earn anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per project. For example, a ghostwriter working on a short e-book or long-form blog article may earn between $500 to $2,000, while ghostwriting a full-length non-fiction book could pay anywhere from $3,000 to $20,000 or more. The payment for ghostwriting a memoir or autobiography can also vary widely, ranging from $5,000 to over $50,000 (for celebrity ghostwriters). Many ghostwriters work on a project basis, charging a flat fee for their services, while others may charge by the hour. Some ghostwriters may also receive a percentage of royalties or profits generated from the work they helped create, particularly for larger book projects. On freelance platforms such as Upwork and Fiverr, blog article rates range from $5 to $50 or more for a short blog post. When searching for jobs on freelance platforms, it is important to keep in mind that $5 and even $10 is not a fair fixed price rate for a blog article. Ultimately, the payment for ghostwriting work depends on various factors, and ghostwriters must negotiate a fair rate for their skills and experience. Resources In addition to this how-to guide, here are some other ways you can learn about ghostwriting: Books and articles: The Freelance Writer's Handbook by Andrew Crofts and Secrets of a Ghostwriter by Isabel Wolf. Online Courses: Find courses that teach the fundamentals of ghostwriting on popular platforms such as Udemy, Skillshare, and Masterclass. Professional Organisations: Joining a professional organization such as the Association of Ghostwriters is a great way to network with other ghostwriters. Online forums and communities: Connect with other ghostwriters and share tips and advice through online communities such as the r/Ghostwriting subreddit. Mentorship programs: Some experienced ghostwriters offer mentorship programs to aspiring writers. Look on platforms such as LinkedIn. Some may even be in your network. Final Thoughts Ghostwriting is an important and often misunderstood specialization in the writing industry. Many people have heard of ghostwriting but may not fully understand what it entails. In essence, ghostwriting involves writing content for someone else without receiving credit. Ghostwriters work behind the scenes to help their clients convey their ideas and messages effectively, often adapting their writing style to match that of their clients. To become a successful ghostwriter, you must have excellent writing skills, a strong understanding of the subject matter, and the ability to adapt to different writing styles and tones. Some of the most popular types of ghostwritten content include books, blog posts, articles, speeches, white papers, social media posts, and scripts. If you want to become a ghostwriter, there are several ways to find job opportunities, including networking, freelance websites, and job boards. While ghostwriting can be a lucrative career, it is important to remember that confidentiality and professionalism are essential to success in this field. "A ghostwriter is a professional who can write anything, anytime, anywhere." - Noreen Wald, ghostwriter and author. Shamila Iyer - Author, writer, and writing coach. If you found this article helpful, please share it with other aspiring writers who would like to enter the ghostwriting niche. Want to learn more about my journey into ghostwriting or how I can help you with your writing? Schedule a call to chat about your needs.

Do you edit your own content? Do you know what to look for when you self-edit your social media posts or blog articles? Wouldn't it be handy to have a quick reference guide at your fingertips? Self-editing and perfectionism woes If you are anything like me, you find it difficult to hand over that final copy. Just one more check. One final proofread. Oh, look, there’s an extra space. Let it go! If not for deadlines, I would spend an eternity editing my final piece. (Thank you, writing gods, for inventing deadlines!) Write. Edit. Proofread. Send. But hang on a sec. Do you know what to look for in that final check before you hit the publish button? Wouldn’t it be handy to have a list of all the bits you need to check in your final edit? Self-editing checklist To help you out, I’ve put together 25 tips for tightening up your copy before you hit send. Download my handy printable self-editing checklist. Note: Always start with a content edit, then focus on style and structure. Proofreading, where you check for typos, incorrect or missed punctuation, and misspellings, should be your final step in the editing process. Need more than self-editing? For longer articles and books, it helps to collaborate with a fresh set of eyes. Find out which type of editor will best suit your needs in my article on how to choose the right editor for your needs. Should you require a comprehensive edit or a manuscript review, schedule a call to chat about how I can help you get your book ready for publishing. Happy writing. Happy editing. Shamila

Self-improvement books didn't magically jump out of "Think Positive" mugs to grace the shelves of our bookstores. They've been around for centuries – in some form or the other. Let's take a brief look at their origins. The self-help phenomena From Ancient Roots to Bestseller Lists While early Egyptians did not have Pinterest to curate their aesthetic, they did have Sebayt  scrolls. Like papyrus post-it notes, these scrolls had tips on everything from manners to morals. Ancient wisdom on leadership Fast forward to medieval Europe, where conduct books were all the rage. Think of them as Emily Post for knights, offering etiquette advice like, "Don't pick your teeth at the banquet table, Sir Reginald," and "Remember, chivalry isn't just for jousting," and "How to blow your nose in polite society."   Then came the 19th century and the "pull yourself up by your bootstraps" mentality. Enter Samuel Smiles, the godfather of modern self-help. His book, Self-Help , was a Victorian blockbuster, urging readers to embrace thrift, hard work, and "moral muscle." Picture a TED Talk delivered by a stern Victorian uncle, and you get the gist.   How to Win Friends But self-help wasn't all stoicism and stiff upper lips. The 20th century saw the rise of pop psychology and motivational gurus like Dale Carnegie. How to Win Friends and Influence People  (published in 1939) still tops the list of best self-help books. Suddenly, self-improvement wasn't just about morals and chivalry but also about mastering the art of the back pat and the winning elevator pitch . How to Win Friends and Influence People - Dale Carnegie. First Edition Signed By the mid-60s, the humble self-help book leaped into cultural phenomenon status. Major themes emerged, including self-management, growth, relationships, and identity. Books such as Psycho-Cybernetics, A New Way to Get More Living Out of Life , Pursuit of Loneliness , and Men are From Mars, Women are From Venus  were on bestseller lists.   And here we are in the 21st century, where self-help has exploded into a billion-dollar industry. Despite much criticism over the years, the genre is still growing , with more focus on work-life balance. From productivity hacks to mindfulness mantras, there's a book for every angle of your well-being. Marie Kondo is decluttering your closets, Brené Brown is teaching you vulnerability, and somewhere, a squirrel is probably writing a guide on nut hoarding efficiency. It's a self-help buffet. The rise of self-help tweets. Is There Space on the Self-Help Shelf? You're probably thinking that the self-help shelves are already groaning, but that's just the mainstream. There are niches crying out for your unique perspective, your lived experiences, your quirky wisdom. Be the author who breaks the mold, who writes the book that no one knew they needed until they held it in their hands. A genre hungry for fresh voices. A world of stories waiting to be told. So, pick up your pen, tap away at your keyboard, and unleash the self-help guru within. The world is waiting for your story.   Within the self-help/self-improvement book genre, there are many niche topics to choose from. Which one is yours? 1. Personal development 2. Business and Leadership 3. Parenting 4. Personal Finance 5. Career and Productivity 6. Mental and physical health 7. Relationships 8. Communication 9. Support and guidance 10. Religious and spiritual 11. Inspirational Memoirs 12. Journaling and creative expression   Like I said before, it's a self-help buffet. An array of self-help books – how many have you read? Ready to turn your expertise into a book that empowers and inspires? Not sure how to get started? Let's chat! As a book editor and coach specializing in non-fiction, I'm here to help you take your manuscript from dream to publish date.   The self-help world awaits your unique voice. Shamila Iyer - your content partner from idea to publication. (Acknowledgment: 'How to Win Friends' and the Tweet book were sourced from Google images.)

Naomi has always wanted to become a book author but she faces some challenges. She believes that her grammar is ‘poor’ and the ideas she generates are ‘lame.’ So, Naomi decided to forget about becoming an author. Every day, aspiring authors like Naomi kill their dream of becoming authors because they allow their fear to outgrow their faith. In this article, I'll review the ten biggest writing challenges aspiring book authors face and how to overcome these challenges.   Let's dive in... Ten biggest writing challenges aspiring book authors face Distraction Generating ideas Self-confidence Procrastination Perfectionism Over-editing Impostor syndrome Inconsistent writing Finding time to write Loose feedback loops   1. Distraction Life is full of distractions that can derail even the most dedicated writer. Whether it's the lure of social media, household chores, or other commitments, staying focused on writing can be a constant struggle. This is one of the biggest challenges new authors face.   2. Generating ideas Aspiring authors often find it hard to come up with a book idea, and this challenge is what impedes their goal of writing a book.   3. Self-doubt Many aspiring authors struggle with feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. They lack confidence in their fiction or nonfiction books.  As a result, they allow the idea sprouting in their minds to die a natural death.   4. Procrastination Procrastination has a crippling effect that can prevent an aspiring author from reaching their full potential. In addition, it makes aspiring authors rush to complete their books, and the quality of their writing suffers.   5. Perfectionism This often goes hand in hand with over-editing, as aspiring authors strive for flawlessness in their writing. They spend time thinking about how perfect they want their books to be instead of writing them. Even when they write something, they second-guess themselves without giving their work a chance.   6. Over-editing Many new book authors encounter this challenge during the course of writing. They spend hours rewriting what they’ve written instead of moving forward. They have the mindset that over-editing is necessary and spend too much time doing this. While it's essential to polish your work, excessive editing can stifle creativity and impede progress.   7. Impostor syndrome Imposter syndrome is when you feel like you're not as good as others perceive you to be, even though you're actually doing well. This condition often results in people feeling like a ‘’fraud" or ‘’phony" and doubting their abilities. Even accomplished writers have faced imposter syndrome sometimes, but it’s always worse for aspiring authors. They experience imposter syndrome because they don't believe in their abilities.   8. Consistent writing What differentiates pro book authors from new ones is consistent writing. Writing consistently is what pro authors do. Many young writers are not consistent because they find it hard to establish a writing routine, set realistic goals, and prioritize their writing time. 9. Finding time to write An aspiring author juggling multiple responsibilities and commitments will find it hard to carve out time to write. Experienced book authors know how to create time for all their activities, including writing.     10. Inadequate feedback New authors often lack access to quality feedback. This can hinder them from growing and developing into professional book authors. How to fix your writing challenges   1. Distraction: To handle distractions as an upcoming author, create a dedicated writing space, set specific writing times, use productivity tools like timers or website blockers, and practice mindfulness techniques for focus.    2. Generating ideas:  A good idea is what gives birth to a book. As an aspiring author, you can pick up a variety of ideas from conversations around you, movies, research, social media, etc. In addition, it’s always handy to have a notebook on hand for recording thoughts and observations, engaging in brainstorming exercises, and jotting down inspiration from other forms of art or literature. Most importantly, have an idea bank – an idea bank is your collection of ideas that you save from different sources and people. This helps to keep ideas flowing and acts as a source of inspiration.   3. Self-confidence:  As an aspiring author, try to surround yourself with supportive peers or mentors. Celebrate small achievements, challenge negative thoughts about yourself, focus on your own growth instead of comparing yourself to others, and be resilient when faced with setbacks.   4. Procrastination:  Identify and address reasons for procrastination, such as excessive social media streaming, fear of failure, or lack of motivation, and cultivate self-discipline through accountability measures. When the writing looks like a mountain, break your tasks into smaller chunks and set achievable goals and deadlines.   5. Perfectionism: To combat perfectionism , you’ve to get rid of unrealistic standards. Embrace imperfection as part of the creative process and focus on progress rather than perfection. 6. Over-editing: The best practice you can cultivate as an aspiring author is to allow your words to flow freely without editing anything. Not stopping to edit all the time will give you the chance to express yourself without fear or hindrances. You can edit after writing , but keep in mind that it’s not all about perfection; it’s about completing your book.   7. Impostor syndrome:  Pro writers also experience imposter syndrome. However, they learn to conquer it by refusing to feel inadequate, letting go of their childhood fears, talking with a mentor, thinking positively, or meditating often. Imposter syndrome is real, but you can learn to overcome it.     8. Consistent writing:  Writing is an art, and I always advise young writers to write on LinkedIn, Twitter, and any other social media they regularly use. Prioritize writing text messages over voice notes. In order to become more consistent as an aspiring writer, you have to set clear goals that you want to work towards. Doing this helps to increase your chance of succeeding as a writer.   9. Finding time to write:  To make writing part of you, you have to find time to write. There are several ways to go about this. You can cut down your social media streaming time, identify and eliminate time-wasting activities, schedule dedicated writing time, communicate boundaries with others, delegate tasks when possible, and make writing a non-negotiable part of your daily or weekly schedule.   10. Inadequate feedback:  Do you want to see yourself flourish as an aspiring book author? Then, seek feedback and get clarity and direction from experts. There are book writing coaches whose responsibility is to guide aspiring authors. If you want to grow, seek their help or get feedback from trusted sources such as beta readers, critique partners, or writing groups. Above all, be open-minded and receptive to constructive criticism. Use feedback as a tool for continuous improvement and refinement of your work.     Final Thoughts It’s a known fact that aspiring book authors face many challenges in their journey; however, these challenges should not stop you from following your dream. Face your challenges head-on; cultivate discipline, resilience, and a growth mindset. Remember that writing is a process of learning and growing. Every challenge overcome brings you one step closer to achieving your dreams of becoming a successful book author. Keep writing, keep persevering, keep winning, and above all, keep believing in yourself. About the Author Hello there! I'm Bridget Austin, a scriptwriter and content writer. You can often find me contributing articles on my blog, InkWrit , where I cover various topics related to book writing tips, book marketing strategies, and the art of storytelling. Feel free to drop by and explore the world of writing with me!

Don’t judge a book by its cover, they say.   But we do, don’t we? Browsing in a bookstore, whether online or in a physical store, our eyes are drawn to covers that stand out. First impressions count! Your Book Cover is Not Only About Aesthetics Your book cover is the face of your book’s personality. It needs to attract the right audience. The genre must match the reader and pique their interest. Imagine a cover that screams fantasy romance, but the story is actually about 19th-century serial killers. Your book cover should attract the reader you want. It should be what the book is about.   When choosing your cover design – think of it as an ad for your book and the back blurb as a movie trailer. Put some thought into it if you want your book to stand out in a highly competitive market.   I had some difficulty explaining this to a client recently. I wanted him to see how his cover could be used as a marketing tool to attract the right audience for his genre. However, the client was adamant about using the cover design he liked. His reasoning was based purely on aesthetics, but book covers have a larger role to play than that.   New authors must keep in mind that writing and selling a book is not just about writing. There is so much more to it. A well-edited  book is one aspect. A strategically designed book cover is another. Below are 3 examples of the covers of some classics. The Catcher in the Rye – an iconic cover that prominently uses the horse image focusing attention on the symbolism of horses throughout the book. Fahrenheit 451 – the original cover of this book perfectly encapsulates the prevailing elements of the story—fire and paper. To Kill A Mockingbird – this classic book's cover was redesigned for its 50th edition to modernize it. Authors, don’t disappoint your book You’ve worked hard to get your book to the ready-to-publish stage. The content is great and eager to be gobbled up by your readers. But you have to attract those readers to your book.   Instead of rushing to publish, spend some time choosing the right cover. Hire a book designer if your Canva  skills are not up to scratch. Brainstorm with your book coach or ask your editor for feedback. 6 simple tips to make your cover stand out 1.           Make your title  prominent. 2.           Choose a font that’s easy to read. 3.           Keep it simple – don’t overcrowd the cover. 4.           Consider your genre’s style and your readers’ likes. 5.           Feature a theme from your book if you include an image. 6.           Don’t forget to pay attention to the back cover and blurb.   Remember, your book cover should communicate the content of your book and inspire readers to pick it up and buy it. The cover of a book is the beginning of a conversation between the author and the reader. ~ David Pearson If you have planned a series, make sure your branding is consistent across the entire series. Think Harry Potter. Patterson’s Alex Cross or a nonfiction series like The Lonely Planet’s travel guidebooks. What do they have in common? They are all instantly recognizable. Covers in a series are usually created using a similar design. The back cover When designing the cover of your book, don’t forget about the back cover. This is an essential component of the book because readers can find more information about the content of the book here. The “book blurb,” which provides a short summary of the contents of the book, is found on the back cover. An example of a back cover with a blurb and a tagline. Some authors include a tagline at the top. A tagline is a one-line brief description of your book. Kind of like a teaser. In addition to the blurb, the back cover of your book can include either book reviews, more information about the author, or any awards or achievements you have received. An example of a back cover with peer reviews. The front cover of your book might attract the reader, but in many instances, the back cover seals the deal. It plays a pivotal role in convincing readers that this book is for them. Final thoughts Book covers are one of the best marketing tools at an author’s disposal. Ensure your book cover conveys vital information about your book’s genre, content, and tone. Don’t rush this step in your book writing and publishing process. Take your time and carefully consider what you want your cover to say to a potential buyer.   It's okay to be clever, but don't get carried away! In the digital age, book covers are more important than ever. They are the thumbnails that catch the eye of the reader, the icons that represent the brand of the author, and the symbols that convey the message of the book.   ~ Anonymous   What are your thoughts on book covers? Do they matter to you when choosing which book to buy?   Happy Designing Shamila I specialize in helping professionals write their first book. This includes coaching you from the first word through the writing process to publication and even beyond. Book a 60-minute clarity call where we'll chat about your book idea, your publishing goals, and how to get you started on your book-writing journey. The call includes a book outline strategy and chapter templates.

From learning how to train a badger to pickling nuts to dealing with micromanagers, there are hundreds of self-help topics to write about. And there is an audience for every topic. People want to learn. Everyone wants to improve.   But hold your horses; you can’t just willy-nilly pick any random topic. What do you know about pickling nuts?   Read on to find out how to choose the right topic for your book. 3 Steps to Help You Choose the Topic for Your Book 1. Choose a specific topic – narrow it down 2. Define your audience – i.e. your reader 3. Write about what you know and love   Before you even begin to gather your ideas and put together your book outline, carefully consider exactly what you want to say, who you want to say it to, and why you want to share it.   WHAT? WHO? WHY?   1. Your topic must be specific Don’t choose a topic that is too broad. One book will not be able to cover everything. Zoom in. For example, instead of choosing a broad topic like How to Train Your Badger, be more specific and narrow it down to something like How to Train Your Badger to Write Your LinkedIn Posts.   Note: Don’t confuse the topic with the book title. That comes later. (Although sometimes it can be the same thing.)   Your book topic answers the question, “What is this book about?” It covers the subject of the book, whereas the title is the name given to the book.   Do Nothing  is the title of the book in the image below. These two words don’t tell us what the book is about. However, the subtitle hints at what is covered in the book — its subject and the topic. Find an excellent summary of "Do Nothing" -->The Therapeutic Bookshelf (FB) 2. Define your audience A broad topic might not reach the audience you want to address. Decide who you think needs your solutions. Who will benefit from reading your book? Now write to that one type of person. This will help you focus and keep track of your purpose, making your book more effective. For the Badger book, your audience will be badger owners who don’t have time to write their own LinkedIn posts. (The market is huge – tap into it now before someone else beats you to it.)   3. Your knowledge Choose a topic centered around what you know and what you are passionate about. Remember your why. Why do you want to write this book? Passion – pet badger and training it to do things for you. Writing content for LinkedIn. I want to share my passion and expertise with other badger owners who struggle to keep up with writing LinkedIn posts. Given the demand, I know my ROI will be extensive.   “If there's a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it.” ~ Toni Morrison Got Topic. What’s Next? Now that you have an idea for your topic, let’s chat about how you can start your book-writing journey and why coffee, or a straitjacket, is an essential ingredient. I am passionate about helping professionals write their first book. This includes coaching you from the first word through the writing process to publication and even beyond. Are you ready to start your book-writing journey? Not sure where to start? Let’s have a chat. Your first consultation includes a complimentary book outline and chapter template. If I'm not reading, writing, walking, or learning how to pickle nuts, you can find me on LinkedIn . Shamila Iyer Author coach and book editor

Did you know that your choice of pronouns in writing can make a significant difference in how you connect with your reader? For instance, using "we" in writing implies inclusivity, while using "you" makes readers feel you are talking directly to them. Using "I" to begin LinkedIn posts or blog articles seems to be doing very well recently. Is it because people love stories, and "I" implies a personal story? First-person pronoun - We, I. Second-person pronoun - You. The Role of Pronouns in Content Writing These three simple words," I," "we," and "you," play an important role in shaping the tone of your content and strengthening your connection with your readers. With this in mind, I often emphasize the importance of selecting the right pronouns when mentoring new and aspiring writers. This article will explore how choosing the appropriate pronoun can transform your writing and engage your readers more effectively. The Power of "We" in Writing When we use the pronoun "we," it implies   inclusivity and unity . Using the pronoun "we" in writing creates a sense of community and shared purpose. It brings your readers into a collective experience, making them feel part of a group with common goals or challenges. We  can achieve more when we work together. Many brands and companies  use "we" to emphasize teamwork and collaboration. This suggests that the organization and reader are working together towards a solution. We all know how challenging it can be to stay motivated during long projects. Collaborating and supporting each other helps keep the momentum going.   The Power of "You" in Writing "You" addresses the reader directly , making them feel more involved. It makes the content feel relevant and tailored to the individual. You  deserve access to high-quality education. Our platform offers a variety of courses to help you  achieve your learning goals. Using "you" in calls to action is highly effective; it speaks directly to the reader's needs and desires. You have the power to change your narrative. "You" in writing is action-oriented as it tells the reader what to do next. You can improve your writing by following these simple steps. Start by outlining your ideas clearly.   The Power of "I" in Writing "I" creates a personal connection  with your readers. Using "I" allows you, as the writer, to share personal experiences and insights, making your content more relatable and trustworthy. I faced this challenge, and here's what I  learned from the experience. People love stories, don't they? And the pronoun "I" naturally fits into storytelling. When we, as writers, share personal stories , our readers can relate to them and more easily feel connected to our content. I remember the first time I struggled with writer's block . It was frustrating, but I found a few techniques that helped push me through. Social media users, too, are discovering that sharing real-life experiences creates an emotional connection with their readers. There is an increasing trend towards personal storytelling in content writing, especially on platforms like LinkedIn and company blogs. Personal anecdotes and insights often lead to higher engagement because they evoke emotions and encourage readers to reflect on their own experiences. "I" is used effectively in personal anecdotes Why pronoun choice matters Choosing the right pronoun can make all the difference in how your message is received. Each pronoun serves a unique purpose and can enhance your writing in different ways:   "We" cultivates a sense of unity and shared experience, perfect for team-based initiatives and collaborative projects. "You" directly engages the reader, making the content feel personal and action-oriented. "I" brings authenticity and reliability, sharing personal stories, building trust, and credibility.   Here's an example of a motivational social media post using "we": We all face challenges, but it's how we overcome them that defines us. Let's keep pushing forward together. Do you see how the use of "we" creates a sense of 'we're all in this together'?   When to use each pronoun While it's important to understand the power of the three pronouns, you should also know when to use each to get the best effect. Use "we" when aiming to build a sense of community or partnership for team-based initiatives, collaborative projects, or company-wide messages We worked with Kaely to transform her business strategy. Together, we increased her revenue by 50%. (Case study success story)   Use "You" when you want to directly address the reader and make the content feel relevant to them in guides, how-to articles, and calls to action (CTAs)   So, you want to be a ghostwriter? This guide  covers everything you need to know about …   Use "I" when sharing personal stories, insights, or experiences for blog posts, LinkedIn articles, and any content where you want to establish a personal connection with the reader   I used to struggle with networking, but I've found some strategies that really work. Here's what I've learned.   Perfect for a post on networking on LinkedIn. 3 Practical tips for using power pronouns When drafting your content, consider the following tips to use pronouns effectively: Clarify your purpose – determine what you want to achieve with your content. Are you building a community (we), giving direct advice (you), or sharing a personal story (I)? Know your audience – ensure you have a clear understanding of who you are writing for and what will resonate with them. Choose carefully – different pronouns evoke different responses. Choose carefully, but don't be afraid to use a combination of pronouns in longer pieces to vary the tone. This helps to keep readers engaged. The pronoun you select will depend on your goals and the message you want to convey. Using them prudently can enhance your content and help you connect with your audience in different ways.   Final Word By strategically using pronouns, you can elevate your writing and create content that resonates deeply with your audience. Whether you're writing a blog post, an email, or a LinkedIn article, give some thought to which pronouns you will use and why. The pronouns you choose can significantly impact the tone of your content and the connection you build with your readers. Whether you're cultivating a sense of community with "we," engaging directly with "you," or sharing a personal story with "I," your choice of pronouns can enhance your writing and make your message more powerful. As a writing coach , I'm here to help you understand these types of nuances and to improve your writing skills. Reach out if you need personalized guidance or tips on how to make your writing more impactful.   Happy Writing Shamila   Note: This article talks about using first-person pronouns (I, we, you) in content writing . In most academic writing , one of the first rules is to avoid first-person pronoun usage. It is considered not formal or objective enough, although, in some instances , academic writers do use "I."

It used to be just celebrity memoirs. The average person didn’t think their life was interesting enough, so we stuck to writing fiction. But memoirs from  ordinary people   like you and me have seen a boom in the last decade. It turns out readers care about the mundaneness of our everyday lives. Even more, they care about stories that inspire them.  Stories that are relatable, true, and carry enough vulnerability to make them feel like imperfectly perfect humans. Still, you can’t just write a memoir because everyone else is doing it. You can’t just write a memoir because it feels good to be an author, or because you know how powerful words are, and how damaging they can be when used for revenge.  No, you have way more integrity than that. That’s why you are here, reading this article. You want to know before you take the plunge and do this incredibly brave thing if your story is worthy of a memoir.  But first, what is a memoir?  Can my story make a good memoir? Defining a Good Memoir Celadon books  define memoir as a narrative written from the perspective of the author about an important part of their life.  While that’s perfectly true, on a deeper level, I define memoir as an introspective story born from the author’s experience and memory. It’s a story born out of a need to connect, to shine a light on our collective human condition, and provide the reader with tools and encouragement to navigate life better.  We don’t write memoirs because our stories are better than anyone else’s. If anything, we write memoirs because we have come to the realization that on a basic level, we are all the same. And, if we are, then we can connect and inspire each other through our shared experiences.  I’ve always believed that a good memoir (or really any good piece of writing) must leave the reader better than they found it. So, if you are going to write your memoir, it can’t just be for the sake of entertainment. It has to be a story that leaves your reader a better version of themselves.  But, how can you know your story is going to leave your reader better than they found it?  4 Traits That Make Your Story a Great Memoir  It’s Transformational  It’s inspirational  It’s Didactic  It’s Directional    Let’s break them down.    It’s Transformational  Did you go through a transformation in the process of your story? Do you consider yourself renewed, improved, or better? If your past self saw your present self, would they be impressed? Relieved? Overjoyed?   Great stories never leave the characters the same. There’s always growth and development. That’s why you get frustrated when you watch a TV series and it’s season 7 but your favorite character still hasn’t undergone any change or growth.  Your memoir must show the change you underwent and show the growth and result of said change. Your transformation must be evident to the reader by the end of the book. If there is none, if you yourself cannot admit right now that you grew for the better (and not in a prideful way) then maybe don’t write your memoir.  It’s possible that you are still in that phase of being transformed, that your scars haven’t healed. And, if you are worried that you will never get to that stage where you can share your story, or that your transformation will somehow go unnoticed, I promise you, transformations are impossible to miss.  In “Finding Me,” we see a woman go from being a scared, abused little girl to a woman who discovers the wonder and power of who she is. Image by Jerry Dhaliwal on Pinterest. It’s Inspirational  The best stories are inspiring, even fiction, and they are always the ones that stay the longest in the reader’s mind. Would you consider your story inspiring? Has anyone ever heard it and shook their head in awe? I once wrote the story of a mom who gave birth to a child who would be dependent on her for the rest of his life, for everything. He would not grow as other children do, he would never graduate from high school, go to college, get a job or get married. He would always need constant care and attention for the rest of his life. She gave birth to this child, while her second child, still a toddler, was suffering from leukemia. By all accounts, she should be devastated, depressed, maybe even suicidal. And she was devastated. She was depressed. She did cry. But you know what I found truly inspiring about her story? The joy and love on her face for her children when I interviewed her. To know that your child would be a burden on you for the rest of your life and still love them unconditionally? Now that’s inspiring.  My problems paled in comparison to hers, and I was inspired to live with gratitude and empathy. Your story doesn’t have to be as weighty as this. Even seemingly unimportant stories can inspire. You have no idea.  In “When Breath Becomes Air,” even though the author dies, we are inspired by his handling of his illness and reminded to live life with more intentionality. Image from Cupofjo on Pinterest It’s Didactic  What did your story teach you? What did you learn from it? A good memoir is didactic, it gives the reader lessons to help them navigate life better. If the journey of your story didn’t teach you anything, how can you be certain it will teach your reader something? You are the first recipient of the benefits of your story. The first one who learns from your experience, and because of that is determined to share with others what you have learned. So, what have you learned? What did your story teach you? If you can write down those lessons easily, and with gratitude, then you know you have a great memoir.  And, you know the beauty of a truly good memoir with deep lessons? Everyone comes away with something different, something they can uniquely apply to their own situation.  I think it’s important to read books from a time before you existed. Especially books about your history and people. By reading the experiences of those who came before you, there’s so much you can learn about yourself. Image by Josefinas on Pinterest It’s Directional  If a reader was going through the same thing you did, could your book give them a step-by-step process on how to navigate it? Can you confidently say, “These are the steps I took during my journey. It helped me, and that’s how I know it can help you.”  Hybrid memoirs have this trait, they are often a combination of your personal stories and educational or directional content that helps the reader navigate whatever you have survived.  What I loved about this memoir is it highlights the complexity of breaking free from toxic familial bond. And what I doubly loved is it showed that while difficult, it can be done. Image by Princess and Pages on Pinterest. In conclusion  When a reader picks up your memoir, they do so with a promise from you that you have something worthwhile for them. It’s your duty to uphold it from the decision to write, to the writing itself.  Don’t just write your story because you can, write to connect, inspire and transform.  Hi, I’m Ezinne Njoku; Ghostwriter and Editor of unforgettable stories. I'm a lover of great stories, and of the people who write, and have lived through them. I think of helping to tell stories as a calling, a gift that God has purposely given to me. My faith is at the core of my work. That’s why I work to deliver only the truest and most impactful stories.  My specialty is stories that explore the human condition. Stories that drive change, inspire transformation, teach grace, humility, resilience, and love. The ones that yearn to connect with the reader and are unafraid to tell the truth.  What is your story? Are you ready to tell it?  Reach out ,  and together we will write an unforgettable story and leave an authentic legacy.

The third best way to improve your writing skills is to get feedback . The best way is to read anything and everything you can lay your hands on. And we all know the second-best way—practice. Practice until your fingers bleed. This article focuses on the third best way—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 all is not well with your writing.   Would you like to find out what the problem is?   The best way? 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. Who should I ask to review my writing? Implore, bribe, or beg an experienced writer (check their credentials first) to do a free review  of your writing. Or 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 include them in my posts. LinkedIn post snippet: Freebie review offer Were you one of those who missed out on my freebie reviews? Sorry, the competition out there is tough.   But all is not lost—I have your back.   You can still get my full review and candid feedback  to help you grow as a skilled writer. Client response after I reviewed her manuscript. But this time, you have to pay—not too much. Why? I've been in your shoes, so I keep my rates as low as possible. But I have to eat—those darn olives in my salad don’t come cheap.   The Review 'Nitty Gritties' These are the steps you need to follow if you want your review process to be smooth sailing. 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 feedback and commenting on the doc is easy. 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 helping you identify areas where you can improve. 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. "Those darn olives don't come cheap." 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 to be critiqued on or provide them with a checklist. 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 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.