Freelance writing coaches: Are they worth it?

Freelance Writing Coach

Running a freelance writing business can be extremely rewarding, but sometimes, you feel stuck and unsure of the next step. When this happens, there are several things you can do to “unstick”' yourself. One of these is getting help from a freelance writing coach.

Several coaches specialize in freelance writing. However, it's important to figure out when coaching is right for you, when it isn't, and whether it is a justifiable investment.

Both of us worked as freelance writing coaches, and our insights from this discussion can help you figure out the whys and hows of investing in coaching.

What kind of freelance writing coach do you need?

There are different coaching styles, so it's important to figure out the kind of freelance writing coach you're likely to work best with. Do you want a crash course with information, answers to all your questions, and plenty of resources to explore? Or do you need someone who is more of a listener and can help you troubleshoot?

“Coaching is best served when people know their ideal learning style.”

Also: Talking to a coach’s past coaching clients is invaluable. It can help you get honest feedback (testimonials or other marketing materials don't count.) The last thing you want is to sign up for an expensive freelance writing coaching program and find that you don't relate with the coach or don't like his or her format or communication style.

Some people prefer self-directed online courses, which they can do at their own pace without being on a specific timetable. Others need accountability, having to check in with somebody once a week, homework to do, and assignments to complete. Identify a coach that offers what you need.

How much can you afford to spend on coaching?

A $350 coaching session that helped you revamp your proposal process and win three new clients in the same year is money well spent. It paid for itself in leaps and bounds.

On the other hand, if you're considering a freelance writing coaching program asking for a one-year investment of say, $12,000, you'll need to vet it carefully. It's a huge commitment, and you'll want to ensure you're at the right point in your business to earn back that money and gain maximum value from it.

“Ask yourself if the amount you invest in coaching is a sum you can earn back.”

If you're a beginner freelance writer looking for clarity and direction and hoping to find answers to basic questions like: 'Where do I start?' or 'How do I position myself?', be judicious with your first investment in freelance writing coaching.

How do you get the most value from a freelance writing coach?

The freelancers who fare best with a coach are those who have a clear idea of their goals and pain points. This helps the coach offer better, more relevant recommendations to help their clients get where they want to be.

“Before investing in coaching, have a clear idea of the outcomes you can expect.”

Freelancing can be lonely, and coaches often find people paying for coaching just because they want some human contact. While it's up to each person to decide if that’s a good use of their time, it's may not the best use of their money. Instead, finding freelance communities, making friends where you live, or going to therapy could be better alternatives.

Similarly, be wary of freelance writing coaches advertising things they can't deliver. No one can guarantee you'll become a six-figure freelancer; that's not the purpose of coaching. The outcome is to help you navigate roadblocks and guide you along your freelancing journey.

Invest in a freelance writing coach for the right reasons
If you're struggling with your freelance writing business, you're not alone. Coaching can help you learn how to navigate tricky situations and apply the right principles. But don't be unreasonable or expect to leverage your coach's network - that's not within the scope of coaching or what you're paying for.

Coaching is not a perfect science. It's a way to offer advice, insight, and perspective. When you are stuck, don't know what to do next, and feel you can afford coaching, it may be a step in the right direction. There may be other unexpected benefits just from connecting with someone further ahead in their freelancing journey.

This season of the podcast is brought to you by Catch, the personal payroll and benefits app. If you buy your own health insurance, Catch has you covered. You can renew your plan, enroll in a new one, and enjoy extra savings with Catch’s ability to find government tax credits that can save you hundreds of dollars on your monthly premiums. Open Enrollment is here. Check out catch.co/health to shop for coverage or cut your current bill today.