Monday’s planning tip for authors

The questions that book coaches ask potential coaching clients during free 20 and 30-minute introductory consultations are intended to spark a meaningful dialog between author and coach. The goal is to help each ascertain their “fit” with each other. Your responses to these questions will help the coach decide how and whether they can help you write and publish your book. The questions typically include:

1. What kind of book do you want to write? The point of this question is to identify the “fit” between the coach’s background and the type of book the author wants to write. Some coaches specialize in fiction, others in narrative non-fiction, others in “service” books that help readers solve problems or achieve goals.
2. What kinds of books are already available in your field? Coaches look for clients who are familiar with existing books in their field, and their strengths and weaknesses.
3. How will your book differ from others on the topic? Publishers and readers, alike, want a fresh perspective or a new approach–even if the approach is style-based (shorter, better organized, up-to-date, etc.) Approach and perspective sell: few want another “omnibus” or text-book approach to a topic.
4. Who will want to buy your book? Instead of “just about everybody,” coaches want to work with clients who have a clear understanding of their target market. Publishing success is often not as much about “writing style” or “topic” as it’s about the book’s relevance to a market that urgently needs information about solving a pressing problem or achieving a desired goal.
5. How are you going to market your book? Today, more than ever, successful authors are defined by their ability to promote their book. Authors who have an existing platform, or establish communications with their potential readers, have a definite advantage.
6. What is the approach you’re going to take? Options include short books, long books, illustrated books, step-by-step procedurals, case studies, and stories. Coaches look for clients who have examined alternatives and have an idea of the format (and intended selling price) for their book.
7. What are your qualifications for writing your book? Qualifications extend far beyond “academic” or certifications. Book coaches look for clients who are confident in describing their background and how it contributes to their book.
8. How are you going to benefit from writing your book? This question helps book coaches identify whether or not the author’s expectations are realistic and attainable. Your response should look well beyond traditional publisher advances and royalties.
9. How soon are you looking to get published? This is another “reality check” to determine better understand the author’s goals, commitment, and available resources.
10. What’s the latest book you’ve read about writing and publishing? Book coaches ask this question to ascertain the author’s passion about writing and publishing, as well as their commitment to self-improvement and learning new tools to write and promote their book.
11. How long have you been thinking about writing this book? The author’s response helps the coach determine whether the author is a “dreamer” or is serious about the project.
12. What’s the biggest issue holding you back? This may be the most important question of all. The more thoughtful and candid the answer, the better the coach can understand the author’s understanding of the writing process and commitment to succeed.

At the end of a brief 20 to 30-minute telephone conversation, it’s usually obvious to both coach and the author whether or not they are compatible with each other and interested in making a commitment to each other.

What types of questions have you been asked by book coaches?

When you were asked the questions, how did you respond? How did you feel during the introductory call? More important, what are the questions you’d like to ask a book coach? Share your comments, questions, and thoughts below.