In answer to Kat’s new set of great questions from above:

Re: the “prerequisites” for the course–how to determine if you have the basic writing skills to leverage what you learn. Since I do not as yet have a formal academic setting for this class, we have to work on an individual basis. If you and I can communicate via email without misunderstandings; if you can post on blogs or message boards and be understood; if you are experienced in any written form of communication, then you should be fine.

Another determination: do you read? Silly as that sounds, a lot of aspiring authors do not; they get their news from talk shows and their fiction from TV and movies. If you are a reader and can communicate in writing, you’re ready.

RE: Location. I don’t live in LA or NY either, but I’ve never had any problem securing clients. People who want to write books live everywhere, so not being in LA or NY merely means you’re local to more people who need help.

Re: recouping your investment. Your first project should do it: the standard-of-the-industry fee for a book proposal is $5,000. My editing fees range from $5,000 – $15,000 for nonfiction. Even at half that (as a newcomer), your income should increase.

Re: how to find and secure clients. That, in fact, is the culmination of the course. We’ll cover everything: how to create your own promotional package (including how to compensate for not having a credit list), how to actively solicit clients, how to attract referrals, how to effectively bid projects, how write equitable contracts, how to establish and maintain your authority, and even how to troubleshoot problems that may arise.

I hope this answers your questions. If not, please post again and I’ll give it another whack!

Claudia

And can you tell me more about the distance course? I’m assuming it’s an online version with a duration similar to a fall college semester with weekly lessons…

And lastly, I know there are no guarantees, but would it be fairly safe to say that, in addition, to adding to my writing skills, I would be able to at least earn back my tuition ghostwriting given that I live in San Antonio, not NY or LA, and do not have a proven book of work or an established editing or professional writing career (as my day job)? How difficult is it to find and secure clients, assuming I can demonstrate good skills after the training?

Kat

Thanks!