What is a Book Coach and How Can They Help You?
Writing a book can feel like a daunting, solitary journey. Many writers sit alone at their computers, unsure of their next steps or how to make consistent progress. That’s where a book coach comes in—a supportive guide who helps you turn your ideas into a polished manuscript, all while keeping you motivated and accountable.
Whether you dream of becoming a bestselling author or want to finish a memoir for your family, a book coach provides the expertise, structure, and encouragement you need to reach your writing goals.
Just as you might work the a personal trainer to get in shape, a book coach will also help you make a plan for writing your book with frequent check-ins.
Asking for help can be challenging, especially when you’re just getting started. But here’s the thing: the world needs your story. We all have a story to share, and these stories can help other people by providing a much-needed laugh or guidance through a difficult time.
Now, more than ever, we’re in a period of time where we need more stories from women. The more that we can stand in our truth and share our perspective, the more we can help the world develop more empathy and understanding to prompt change.
By working with a book coach, you can gain clarity around your voice, the story’s direction, and tackle the inevitable resistance to the creative process.
What Does a Book Coach Do?
A book coach is like a personal trainer for your writing. Just as fitness trainers help clients achieve specific physical goals, book coaches guide writers through the creative process. They offer tailored support to overcome roadblocks, refine your craft, and finish your manuscript.
While some book coaches focus on the technical aspects of writing—such as character development, plot structure, or pacing—others, like the book coaching services at Her Narrative, focus on the writer's mindset, helping you overcome fears, clarify your purpose, and stay consistent with your writing practice.
A book coach can help you:
Define your writing goals and break them into actionable steps.
Identify your ideal audience and align your writing to resonate with them.
Address creative resistance, imposter syndrome, and fears about sharing your story.
Stay accountable to deadlines and writing milestones.
How to Find a Book Coach
Finding the right book coach is a personal decision. A great book coach will make you feel supported, understood, and inspired to move forward. Here are some tips for finding the perfect match:
Start with Research – Use search engines to find book coaches in your niche. Look for reviews, testimonials, and examples of their work.
Check Social Media – Many book coaches share advice, tips, and their personality on platforms like Instagram or LinkedIn. This is a great way to gauge whether their style resonates with you.
Join Workshops – Writing workshops, such as the ones offered through Gotham Writers often feature instructors who also offer one-on-one book coaching. This can give you a sense of their coaching style before committing.
Ask Questions – When reaching out to potential coaches, ask about their process, availability, and how they tailor support to writers with goals similar to yours.
Some example questions to ask a potential coach:
What is your approach to helping writers achieve their goals?
How do you structure your coaching sessions?
Have you worked with writers in my genre or stage before?
What kind of accountability systems do you provide?
When it comes to finding the right writing coach for you, start with a Google search and be sure to check out their social media to get a feel for their personality.
No matter your goals as a writer, know that you are not alone in the process. Gaining support and guidance can only help your progress flourish into the celebration of completing your next writing project!
