How Much Are Writing Coach Rates -- and Should You Invest?
When I polled my YouTube audience on their biggest writing struggles, two issues cropped up: getting started, and keeping going.
It makes sense. Many people are perfectionists. The idea of hitting that publish button on what they consider to be substandard work? It's absolutely terrifying. Others burst out of the writing gate with a tremendous idea or two. But then they quickly fizzle out when they don't get results as fast as they'd hoped.
I've helped address -- and ultimately solve -- both those issues, as well as countless other ones. That's what helps me set my rate as a coach. I never promise financial success, because a lot of that is in your hands, not mine. I don't promise that you'll be a flawless writer after our sessions, because again, that's up to you, not me.
But most people want to improve. And most people want an external person to tell them what they need to do to improve. I explain to prospective clients what I can help them achieve. I tell them my price. And then I let them decide if it's worthwhile or not.
My approach is just one example of how to set rates. Maybe you're a beginner looking to develop your writing skills. Or perhaps you're an experienced writer seeking feedback and accountability. No matter where you are on that spectrum, you should understand the costs and benefits of working with a writing coach. That way you can make an informed decision.
The Importance of a Writing Coach
Ultimately, all writing advice boils down to: write as often as you can, as well as you can. Why pay someone $200 an hour to tell you that, whether it's a business coach or a book coach or a creative writing coach?
Because there's normally some reason our clients can't just write as often as they can, as well as they can. I like to think of a writing coach as someone in between a therapist and a personal trainer.
We have to understand at least a little bit of your psyche, to know what's holding you back. We have to know what you're capable of, so we understand what writing exercises to assign. (Or "homework," as I often call it to my clients.)
And finally, for some people, just the act of paying money makes you more likely to commit to doing something. It's like a gym membership. Sure, you can run every day if you like for free. But when you pay $49/month, you're more likely to actually get up off your butt and hit the treadmill.
Personalized Feedback and Guidance
One important coaching benefit I haven't touched on yet is personalization. A writing coach provides one-on-one assistance to give you personalized feedback, specifically tailored to your unique needs and goals.
Coaches can consider your specific strengths and identify any weaknesses that could hinder your writing capabilities.
For example, one client of mine worked at a demanding healthcare job. She had very little time or mental energy to write, but she desperately wanted to be able to. Through coaching, I helped her to create limits with her family so she could have 10-15 minutes alone each day. I also suggested a writing plan that could work in small time increments. That wouldn't work for another of my clients, who had a different situation.
1:1 coaching gives you guidance and support on various crucial aspects of writing, like structure, style, and grammar. But a good writing coach also helps you with time commitments, relationships with others, motivation, and finding ideas and inspiration. Ultimately, a writing coach empowers you to enhance and refine your writing skills, leading to real improvement in your written work.
Accountability and Motivation
This is that personal fitness aspect I mentioned earlier.
Having a writing coach is very helpful because they make sure you stay on track with your writing goals and deadlines. By creating goals and milestones, they make sure you consistently work hard and achieve progress towards your writing dreams. Feeling accountable is a strong motivator because you know someone is watching your progress.
And writing coaches are not just passive observers. A writing coach should be someone you can count on to support and motivate you as you navigate through challenges in your writing. They know a lot and have done this for a long time, so they can help you come up with good ways to get past writer's block and keep writing regularly.
With their guidance and support, you are more likely to stay committed to your writing practice and achieve the success you desire.
Understanding Writing Coach Rates
Hopefully now you understand what writing coaches offer, and whether it's right for you. Now let's talk about money.
Hourly Rates
Writing mentors commonly bill clients based on an hourly rate for the assistance they offer. The rates can differ based on the mentor's expertise, credentials, and the extent of support provided. Generally, hourly rates fall within the range of $50 to $200, although certain mentors may charge higher fees for specialized services.
I charge $200 per hour, or $125 for a 30 minute coaching session.
Some coaches add extras. For example, I include a call recap email outlining the strategy, homework, written feedback (if requested). Others include templates, tools, or worksheets.
Others bill by type of session. For instance, Jamie Morris, one of the best writing coaches for book coaching, charges:
$250 for a one-off one-hour coaching call
$650 for a two hour “plot clock” coaching call
$850 for a review of your first 50 pages, plus a two hour coaching consult
Package Deals
Other writing coaches provide bundled offers that consist of a predetermined number of coaching sessions. If you know you're in it for the long-haul, these bundles can be a more economical option when compared to paying for sessions individually.
The pricing for bundled offers varies based on the coach and the number of sessions included. Morris, whom I mentioned above, charges $3250 for a ten session coaching package, just as an example.
Why Coaching Is Worth It
OK, that is a hefty chunk of change. Why pay it? Many aspiring fiction writers aren't exactly rolling in it. Hobby bloggers and freelance writer types don't often have huge disposable income sources.
If you've got this far and you're still on the fence, then you aren't at the stage of needing a writing coach. To you, I repeat the same advice. Keep writing, as well as you can, and eventually, you'll succeed.
If you've been doing that and you're still not getting where you want to go -- whether that's learning business communication, or getting a literary agent then perhaps those rates are worth paying. Only you can decide that.
Here's what most writing coaches offer:
Personalized Attention
A great writing coach gives you personalized attention and support. They focus on your specific needs and help you overcome challenges that might stop you from achieving what you want.
With a writing coach, you'll get the tools and strategies you need to become a better writer, instead of using one-size-fits-all advice from any random blog post or video. You may also get developmental editing on specific writing, if the coach permits.
Faster Progress
How long have you been working on that novel? With a book writing coach's guidance (not to mention a coach's watchful eye), you can make faster progress in your writing journey.
Building Confidence
So many writers I know suffer from low confidence because you know what? Writing is hard. It kicks all our butts. Through coaching, feedback, and encouragement, you will gain the confidence to share your work with others.
Conclusion
Investing in a writing coach can be a valuable decision for writers of all levels. The personalized feedback, accountability, and motivation they provide can significantly enhance your writing skills and help you achieve your goals. While rates may vary, the benefits they offer make them worth the investment. So, if you're ready to take your writing to the next level, consider working with a writing coach and experience the positive impact it can have on your writing journey.
