Tag: business

Clearing Up Misunderstandings about my Business

Clearing Up Misunderstandings about my Business blog post banner

I receive a variety of requests from new indie clients who find my website when they are looking for a proofreader.

Their questions, such as those below, are fuelled by misunderstandings:

  • Can you proofread my manuscript in Word?
  • Can you do a proofread as soon as possible?
  • I have written a children’s rhyming book. How much is it to proofread 800 words?

Potential clients will, inevitably, misunderstand how you operate your business, unless, as the business owner, you let them know about your processes.

Key misunderstandings made by my clients

Here are some ways clients misunderstand my services:

  • Differences between copyediting and proofreading
  • Scheduling
  • Each writing genre requires different skills.

Differences between editing and proofreading

When indie authors ask “Can you proofread my manuscript in Word?”, they are not aware of the publishing process; they are not aware of the difference between copyediting and proofreading. Many need their manuscript to be copyedited before they require my proofreading services.

A common misunderstanding is that copyediting and proofreading are the same service. In fact, they are different. Copyediting improves structure, clarity, wording and flow. Proofreading is the final pass or polish for errors like spelling, punctuation, formatting, and consistency issues. Illustrations (if there are any) form part of the manuscript and are also checked that they match the text.

Some freelancers are skilled in both and bundle copyediting and proofreading as a package. However, they are different stages and require different levels of expertise and time. There should be a gap between the stages if the same person provides both services to one client, as fresh eyes are needed.

Scheduling

When new enquirers ask “Can you do a proofread of my book as soon as possible?”, they seem unaware that freelancers book clients in to a schedule. Very few will be able to turn around a copyedit or a proofread in a couple of days or over the weekend.

If you are writing a book as a self-publishing author (indie) and will need the services of a freelancer, think about it early in the process. In fact, start from the end – from publication – and work backwards. When you have an idea of timings, check the availability of the professionals you want to work with: book designer, copyeditor, proofreader.

Some freelancers are booked up several months ahead. Some build ‘wiggle room’ into their schedules to allow for … life.

I will always communicate my scheduling availability. New clients will have done some research to find my website. Mutual respect with a client will be ensured when they allow for my scheduling. Our working relationship will be more trustworthy if expectations are diplomatic and clear of misunderstandings.

Each writing genre requires different skills

When an indie author says, “I have written a children’s rhyming book. How much is it to proofread 800 words and how long will it take?”

As a former primary teacher, one of my genres is children’s books. I get enquiries from picture book authors and those who have attempted to use rhyme. Because they have written less than 1,000 words, they assume that, because their book is for children, it won’t cost much to proofread or take much time …

I ask for them to please email me the book so that I can estimate a quote.

Factors to consider when enquiring

1. I have a standard rate for proofreading any writing under 1,000 words, which is my hourly rate. I value my expertise; I know my value.

2. They don’t realise that it’s much harder to write a children’s picture book or rhyming book than they thought. The words need to flow in a rhythm. If misplaced words trip me up, they will trip up other readers. One of my services is proof-editing to assist in word choice.

3. I am usually sent a text-only Word document. Sadly, with children’s books, this only tells half the story – the images tell the other half. It is beneficial– ideal in fact – if I can see images with the text so that I can see how they relate to the text. I look at how the words are placed among the illustrations. When I ask if they have illustrations, or have booked an illustrator, they ask if I can recommend one …

Responding to misunderstandings

It might be easier to list the services I don’t provide:

  • I don’t copyedit in Microsoft Word.
  • I don’t proofread adult fiction.

My professional body, the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP, ciep.uk), has a directory of many fiction and non-fiction editors and proofreaders covering a huge range of genres and specialisms. If I am not a good fit for your book, try searching the directory: https://www.ciep.uk/directory

What key thing do you wish people understood about your business?

Sprinkling publishing confidence,

Annie

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2025: Review of My Year

Blog post image: 2025 review of my year

This year started busy for me with proofreading and has turned into my best year yet for business and repeat clients. I was booked every month for the first time in my freelance business life.

Tall Tartan Talks here … I have worked hard to get to this place of stability.

Consolidating events of 2024

Looking back and reflecting on the events of last year (as mentioned in my review of 2024), the proofreading I have taken on this year has reinforced my position as an experienced and trustworthy freelance proofreader.

Monthly blog posts

In this post I give you an idea of the kind of proofreading projects I have done. It also includes links to posts that I published this year in case you missed them when I posted them on social media or in my newsletter.

Here is the link to subscribe to Tall Tartan Times: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/527762/117747043804383066/share

January

My proofreading projects were for three indie children’s book authors. You can see the cover images in the relevant genre page.

January’s blog post: What are the signs of a good listener?

February

I proofread a children’s book for a Christian publisher client #1 called I AM: Stories from the Gospel of John by Laura Cerbus.

I wrote February’s blog post after consultation with a book designer who had collaborated with one of my indie authors: How does a book designer work with an indie author?

March

My proofreading was for another three indie children’s book authors. Two of them had written a series of books on education that they wanted me to proofread. One found me through my website. The other was a referral on LinkedIn from an edibuddy who thought I was a better fit.

With the end of my financial year looming, I wrote March’s blog post called How to do a SWOT Analysis of Your Business.

April

Three proofreading jobs this month began with a repeat non-fiction publisher client. The book was called 365 Days of Self-Care and was published in November.

Also, I started proofreading for Christian publisher client #2. It involved liaising directly with the author, resolving my queries and those of the author and annotating my PDF with all comments before returning the collated PDF to the typesetter via the editorial manager.

April’s blog post was inspired by the two men in my family training for cycling events: Why editing is like long-distance cycling or any endurance sport

May

Two of the indie authors came back to me for proofreading of the second books in their series.

Completing my Self-Assessment (tax return) for HMRC prompted a review of my income and expenses. I had thoughts about how to use money through the genre I have most experience with – education: Teaching Children About Money

June

The commissioning of my new logo this year using my tartan branding prompted me to write My Branding Update.

July

I proofread a substantial non-fiction book for Christian publisher client #2. Again, I liaised with the author and learnt about systemising the queries in batches as the book was over 400 pages. The author appreciated our collaboration. As a result I wrote The Dos and Don’ts of Writing Author Queries.

BitmoAnnie says Yay

August

I proofread a non-fiction historical book for a colleague who is a book designer and subcontracts me for proofreading for her indie authors. (The same talented person who designed my logo!)

September

Once I had attended the annual conference of the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP), I wrote this blog post: CIEP2025 Conference for Editors and Proofreaders

October

I got very busy again with proofreading work from Christian publisher client #2. The Editorial Manager (EM) referred me to another EM, so two books were proofread concurrently. It became vital to schedule query responses efficiently.

Marketing when working – How?

As someone who enjoys creating valuable content and sharing my business and editing tips by blogging and through LinkedIn posts, it was a very real struggle to continue the content process while I was busy with paid work and deadlines. I mean, how?

I couldn’t even get my head around using scheduling tools to publish short posts on LinkedIn which would have been one way to maintain a visible presence. So marketing my business was paused in October and November to keep overwhelm at a manageable level.

November

Self-care continued …

December

Christian publisher client #2 got in touch with a substantial proofread of a collection of reflections. I’ll start that this month; it will take me to the end of January 2026 so starts the new year nicely. It is my fifth book this year for that client. I think they like me!

I did very little editorial training this year because I didn’t have time! The CIEP’s course Copyediting 2: Headway is on my list for next year.

How has 2025 been for you? Have you experienced feast, famine, or a controllable schedule of interesting work?

See you in 2026!

Sprinkling publishing confidence,

Annie

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BitmoAnnie Fairy sprinkling publishing confidence
BitmoAnnie Fairy sprinkling publishing confidence

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How to do a SWOT Analysis of Your Business

How to do a SWOT Analysis of Your Business

Have you carried out a SWOT Analysis? SWOT is an acronym for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. By using this planning tool to identify your SWOTs you help to build a robust business.

Tall Tartan Talks here … When I started my freelance proofreading business in 2017, my mentor at the job centre recommended the first two things I should do to qualify for instalments of the Business Enterprise Allowance. The first was to build my website. The second was to provide evidence that I had written a business plan, including analysing my SWOTs by using the template provided.

Carrying out a SWOT Analysis

I still find it useful to review my SWOTs, usually quarterly. Even an annual review helps.

Now that we are at the end of the first quarter of the year, I am using the first three months to review my business plan.

Keeping my SWOTs in mind, I have used five question prompts to review, develop and direct the progress of my business travel: what, when, where, how and why?

Celebrating Strengths

I provide efficient proofreading services to my clients who are indie authors of non-fiction and children’s books, and publishers. I am organised, efficient and diplomatic.

Experience

I am a good fit if you have written a children’s book. I gained vast experience after 30 years teaching in primary classrooms. My other strengths and specialisms include education and religion.

Training

Another strength is that I trained extensively in proofreading with the CIEP. I can use Track Changes in MS Word. I know my way around tools in Adobe Reader when proofreading PDFs (thanks to a course called How to Mark Up PDF Proofs from Denise Cowle Editorial – other courses are available). With these skills I sprinkle publishing confidence.

Reviewing Weaknesses

What are my subject areas of weakness? What are the weaknesses in my business and how do I accept those weaknesses?

The weaknesses in my business include reasons why you shouldn’t hire me to proofread your book …

Not a good fit

My specialisms do not include adult fiction, but fiction for children up to age 11, and middle grade novels (aimed at up to the end of Key stage 3, that is, 14 year olds). If you are a fiction author or publisher, I know other editors that have those strengths and can recommend a better fit.

Alos, if you have written in the STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths), I am comfortable saying that I do not know enough about those subjects. I know far better-suited proofreaders and copyeditors.

Wearing many hats

Wearing many hats can be a superpower or a weakness, depending on your skills!

As a business owner I am responsible for all of its parts. Those include IT, accounts, marketing, etc. If I feel unable to do one of those roles because I don’t have the skills, e.g. accounts, the wise thing to do would be to hire a specialist.

If you can pay to outsource the parts of your business that you don’t have the skills for, do it. Remember to talk to other freelancers about problems you are having.

Seizing Opportunities

What are the opportunities that I want to seize in my business? Where will I find them? How can I grasp them and use them to grow my business while maintaining control?

Training

Continual Professional Development (CPD) – training – is one opportunity to add to my skills. One course that I hope to sign up for this year is Copyediting 2: Headway with the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP, ciep.uk). Another is learning how to use a design program, i.e. InDesign (part of the Adobe Package).

Cold emailing

Cold emailing potential clients is one way to find new work and new opportunities. Remember to do your research and tell them, briefly, why you would be a good fit. See more tips in my blog post: 8 Steps for Reaching Out to New Clients

New clients might ask you to proofread a subject that you hadn’t considered before – why not grasp the thought of being a little outside your comfort zone? Sprinkle publishing confidence.

Defending against Threats

What are the threats facing my business? Where do problems come from? How can I defend against these threats?

Collaborating not competing

I used to think that the most obvious threat facing my business was other freelancers. Then I discovered networking, collaborating, and sharing joys and woes. Remember others when you need to refer another editor to a client and they will remember you. Keep networking and marketing to get yourself known so that you will be remembered.

Learning about AI

The biggest threat to editors out there is Text-Generative AI. The advice is to keep an eye on developments and what they could mean for your business. Being aware is crucial. I have added to my Terms & Conditions telling indie authors that I will not work on any AI-generated writing. Also, I will not use AI tools to help me edit my writing.

The tools I use help me find inconsistencies in writing. I have control over what I choose to change or not. PerfectIt and macros are examples of those tools. Read about them here in my blog post: 4 Tools for Writing and Editing Efficiency. Sprinkling publishing confidence.

Try a SWOT Analysis

Does this guide give you clarity on seeing how to develop your business? Look at how far you have come and look forward in your business.

To remind you, the reason you became self-employed was to have control over your business. By following the SWOT Analysis strategy, you should not only celebrate your milestones, but break down each part of your business plan into smaller, achievable steps.

Make time for the non-urgent, important tasks too, when working on your business rather than in your business.

Sprinkling publishing confidence,

Annie

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How to do a SWOT Analysis of Your business. I am your fairy godmother sprinkling publishing confidence.

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2024: Review of My Year

2024:

As I review 2024 I realise how eventful it was for me because I achieved things I hadn’t done before in my freelance life.

Doing new things

Tall Tartan Talks here … A quick snapshot of my achievements this year: I self-published my non-fiction ebook in April; completed a course called Understanding Mental Health First Aid; did more freelance proofreading work for publishers than in previous years, and took on work from new-to-me publishing clients. I turned 60 halfway through the year; and one more event happened that I shall reveal later …

Reflecting on 2024

Looking back, here’s my review through the blog posts I wrote.

Winter and spring

I spent the first three months, during a very quiet period of work, collecting my blog posts into a non-fiction business book for self-publishing.

I copyedited my manuscript from the single, individual blog posts that I had written in MS Word, starting in 2017 all the way up to 2023. Then I spent time proofreading the manuscript.

However, it is really tricky to proofread your own writing, so a  very kind edibuddy offered to proofread it.

Finally, it was ready to upload to Amazon KDP as an ebook. Here is the link to Tall Tartan Talks – My Collection of Blog Posts: Tips on Running a Business if you haven’t seen it yet: https://amzn.eu/d/csKQohb

I described the process in How I self-published my Business Book.

Summer

In June, my blog post explored the concept of questioning in education and business by asking What is a good question?

My July blog post reflected on how to cope with periods of time without freelance work. By this time, I had marketed myself repeatedly without, seemingly, much success. I know that the results of cold emailing take time. But it is really hard to be patient … Therefore, I wrote tips on how to use time productively in Taking Breaks in Your Business.

Autumn

By September, with the return to work for most people, I felt urged to promote methods of effective communication called How to Communicate Clearly.

In October I shared my tips for preparing for and writing cold emails to potential new clients: 8 Steps for Reaching Out to New Clients

Tutoring

I was able to provide tuition for a primary school child, on Zoom, with reading, handwriting, spelling and writing for six months.

Not having tutored for a couple of years, I missed the contact with young people and the regular income. A fellow edibuddy got in touch to ask if I was available … Could we work with the time difference with her granddaughter being in Australia?

The arrangement worked well! I was pleased to observe how well the child responded to my teaching. See the testimonial from the parent on my Primary Tutoring page.

Upgrading in the CIEP

And so to my best news – I am excited to report that my application to upgrade from Intermediate Member to Professional Member of the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP; ciep.uk) was approved in December.

I proved my professionalism by taking editorial training, showing 500 hours of proofreading experience with clients, and providing a reference from a client that I have done over 50 hours for and who could judge my proofreading skills. Here is my CIEP directory profile page.

What an amazing way to end the year!

CIEP Professional Member logo

Seeing flaws as part of the process to achievement

Let me share a metaphor that spoke to me about growth mindset and running a business called Kintsugi.

I found the term in a book that I proofread this summer. It is now published and available to order (details at the end).

Kintsugi is the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold. The idea is to make something more beautiful by embracing the flaws; and something unique and beautiful in its imperfection. The flaws are emphasised and celebrated.

See the picture of kintsugi-repaired pottery below. The lines of gold are where the repairs have been done and show them off in a positive light.

I love this metaphor because it challenges perfectionism and opens our minds to the ideas that every part of us makes us into something special and magnificent – just as we are, including all the past mistakes we have made.

Kintsugi china

In summary, my tips for owning and running a business are to persevere, persist, and be patient.

How has the year been for you?

See you in 2025!

Annie

Sprinkling publishing confidence

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Source for Kintsugi: Compassion-based Language Education by Sarah Mercer, published by OUP, 2024.

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Taking Breaks in Your Business

blog post: Taking Breaks in your Business

This blog post was originally written in July 2024 and was updated in August 2026.

It is vital that we take breaks in the daily routine of our freelance business.

How long you break for depends on your concentration levels, work commitments and deadlines.

Tall Tartan Talks here … Taking breaks is an act of self-care to recharge and feel refreshed.

We get so bogged down in how much we need to achieve in a certain time – leading to feelings of overwhelm – that we forget to listen to our body. We ignore our feelings.

Our brains need breaks to rest and refocus. By taking short, deliberate breaks away from your computer screen throughout your day, you give your mental muscles a chance to relax.

How do we incorporate these breaks into our freelance flow? I’ve categorised break activities into periods of time. How much time have you got for a break? Or, at the other extreme, has it been a while since work emails pinged into your inbox?

Taking a break for five minutes

I embrace the Pomodoro method (see my mention in this post One Day in My Life as a Proofreader). In short, work for 25 minutes, then have a 5-minute break. As a proofreader this timing works well for me. Five minutes is enough time to rest my eyes and look in a different direction.

Tweak this method to include the 20 / 20 / 20 concept. That is, every 20 minutes look away from your screen for 20 seconds to a distance of 20 metres or more (e.g. out of the window). Set a timer to ensure that you stop and stretch. This break has the effect of resetting your eye muscles, pausing to refresh thinking, and ensuring self-care.

Think of other movement breaks that can be completed in five minutes – you’ll have your favourites.

Taking a break for 30 minutes

Is it time for refreshment break or a meal? Sitting for long periods is not only bad for your posture, but it can also lead to sluggishness. Move around. Make lunch. How about a brisk walk? Do that quick housework or garden job.

In other words, sustenance, movement, fresh air and exercise will clear your head and revitalise your brain.

Taking a break for one hour

I feel most alert first thing so a typical morning means that I will proofread for up to four hours using short break bursts. By the afternoon I often lack energy and feel the need to go into a lower gear.

I take an hour’s lunch break by doing household tasks in small chunks, listening to a podcast, or even picking up a book. Turning off email notifications helps me relax. Try doing nothing without feeling guilty.

Taking a break for a half day

When it’s hard to get started, perhaps on a Monday morning or a rainy Saturday, focus on your business rather than in your business.

Try some CPD – have you got a training module that’s waiting for your attention? Or have a finance focus by updating invoice and expenses spreadhseets. Engage meaningfully on the social media of your choice. Post some content. Market your business. Resist the temptation to scroll for hours.

How about switching off completely for a couple of hours? Spend time with others, e.g. arrange to meet someone for coffee in a café. You may even have a hobby (note to self).

Taking a break for one day

When I have finished a particularly intensive project, I timetable a day off before the next project starts. That’s right, I make sure the break is scheduled in my diary so that it does happen. I know!

That date with myself is treated as being as important as any other appointment.

Taking a break for one week

Now for breaks that are longer …

I read a post on LinkedIn where they were expecting a project to be emailed. They were frustrated and disappointed when the client said to expect a delay. It was too late to reschedule another project in that gap. They pondered what could be fitted into their unexpectedly acquired week’s break. Decorating came to mind.

After one week of DIY, they realised how refreshed they felt. It hadn’t dawned on them how much they had needed this break, this recharge, until it was forced on them. Doing something completely different, they admitted was a valuable lesson.

Taking a holiday would have the same effect …

Taking a break for one month

A more serious tone now … When clients are quiet or projects are delayed for a month or more, this is a break with more serious consequences and not of your choosing. It is probably time to review your cash flow.

After one month without work, it may be time to let repeat clients know that you are available or send cold emails to prospective new clients. Here’s a post I wrote about Marketing Mindset. It includes a guide to cold emailing.

Taking a break for two months

When I had a very quiet spell in the winter, I scheduled an ‘important but not urgent’ task – to write an eBook. By following a process of self-publishing my collection of blog posts, my time was spent creatively and proactively.

Consider other sources of income to maintain finances, e.g. I used to tutor primary children as a reliable source of income to top up my income from proofreading.

Consider ways to protect yourself by reviewing your expenditure, e.g. buy what you need rather than what you want; cancel subscriptions that don’t bring value.

Embracing the breaks

Instead of panicking, think how to be in control of expected and unexpected breaks in your schedule. Be creative. Remember, taking breaks isn’t a sign of weakness – it’s a sign of strength and intention.

As a freelancer with my own business I try to thrive not just survive by booking breaks for self-care as well as booking clients as part of my schedule.

When was the last time you felt refreshed and renewed?

Sprinkling publishing confidence,

Annie

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Other reading

Another blog post on a related theme: Summer of Study

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Marketing Mindset

blog post Marketing Mindset

As business owners we worry about marketing our skills. I know, I’ve been there. I invite you to activate your business brain. Switch on your marketing mindset.

If you want potential clients to know that you are available for work, you need to tell them using marketing. Otherwise how will they know?

Tall Tartan Talks here … I give you tips on how to market your business. These are strategies I’ve tried when marketing my proofreading business. They have reinforced that I am friendly, efficient and trustworthy. Sprinkling publishing confidence.

LinkedIn

Let’s begin at the beginning. If you don’t have a website, have a presence on social media, for example, LinkedIn. Here’s my profile page.

I post many marketing tips on LinkedIn for edibuddies and other freelancers. Find my tips by searching for my hashtag #TallTartanTips then follow to be notified of my posts.

The tips are handy reminders I have picked up in the CIEP (Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading, ciep.uk) forums, at Drive the Partnership Network, and on social media about how to own, run, and market your business.

Use my tips as reminders to help you maintain a positive business brain and marketing mindset.

Tips about marketing your business

I have sorted my tips into six categories:

  • Useful resources
  • Using social media
  • Blogging
  • How to be a business owner
  • Motivation tips.

Useful resources

  • Build a website or pay someone you trust to build it for you. It is your shop window which you own, unlike your social media profiles.
  • Make time for investigating resources that will help you improve your marketing. Listen to the podcasts of experts in your field.
  • Invest money in resources: you need to speculate to accumulate. It could be a course or a tool to help you do your job more effectively.

Using social media

  • Follow useful connections on LinkedIn, who might know others in industries you have an interest in. This could help find you work.
  • Like, comment, and  engage with connections on social media. Be brave.
  • Be even braver. Plan content for social media. Have a strategy for showcasing your work by sharing testimonials, plans for the coming week, wins of the last week, poignant thoughts that will resonate with others …

Blogging

I use blogging to get eyes on my website. I write posts about freelancing, education, and running a business. Then I share them on social media otherwise no one will know I’ve published a new post.

Search and follow the hashtag for my blog #TallTartanTalks on LinkedIn. Or go to my blog on my website.

I have self-published an eBook collection of my blog posts as a way to explore self-publishing. Find Tall Tartan Talks – My Collection of Blog Posts: Tips on Running a Business on Amazon.

How to be a business owner

  • Feel the fear and do it anyway.
  • Think of yourself as a business owner wearing many hats. If needs be, outsource the skills you don’t have to those who have the skills.
  • Practise the 3Ps: patience, perseverance, persistence.
  • Look out for your physical and mental health. Ensure a work/life balance by setting personal boundaries. Go outside and get some fresh air by walking or gardening. Perhaps walk in the woods among the trees, which works for me.

Motivation tips

Those who go fishing catch the fish.

Thor A Rain, lead writer of the book First Aid For Feelings Manual from The Helpful Clinic (I proofread their book.)

I love this quote because you can’t catch fish (get clients) unless you go fishing (email or phone them). It is up to you to tell clients that you are available for work. How else will they know? It’s a no-brainer.

Thor and Nicki’s book, First Aid For Feelings – the essential Manual for self-care skills and good health, emphasises how to look after yourself and gives tips on how to be physically and mentally healthy. That’s especially important when you run your own business. (See image in my gallery.)

I gain valuable advice from members like Thor when we attend Drive, our networking group on Zoom. The weekly meetings are a collaborative space where my freelancer tribe shares wins, problems and advice. I learn something worthwhile at every meeting which helps me stay motivated. Find your tribe and safe space.

Inspired by Thor, I created a marketing strategy that I use when emailing prospective clients: Eight steps that worked for me.

8 steps that worked for me

Testimonial

“Annie encouraged me to market my services to companies I knew I could help. She helped me to see that someone will see your content and want to use your services at some point in the future, so it makes sense to keep marketing.

If you are proactive with marketing, and don’t worry about the responses, you will fit someone’s need, somewhere. You’re right – they won’t know if you don’t tell them. Annie helped me think more clearly about where to go with my marketing. Thank you!”

Andrea Constable of Squiggle Social

Since writing this, my post as part of this mindet is available: 8 Steps for Reaching Out to New Clients

Sprinkling publishing confidence,

Annie

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How I Self-published my Business Book

How I self-published my Business Book

I have self-published a business book!

My eBook is called Tall Tartan Talks: My Collection of blog Posts – Tips on Running a Business. I’ve written it for freelancers by sharing many tips I’ve learnt while running my proofreading business.

I used Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). If you would like to buy my book, the link is at the end of this post.

I will explain the what, how, and why of the process which, hopefully, will answer a lot of your questions.

What did I write?

I already had a collection of over 30 blog posts on my website which I had written to support other freelancers. I asked myself, why not copy the draft versions from Word and paste them into a single document? Rather than write something new I could create one manuscript using writing I already had.

If you have an idea for a fiction or non-fiction book, for adults or children, do write it. And keep writing. If the ideas flow, great! When you’ve finished a draft, ask friends / colleagues to read it. This will gauge if the audience thinks your book works. You will feel the need to redraft your manuscript several times.

How did I format my book?

Each blog post is around 1,000 words; the collection totalled around 30,000 words.

Once I had created my manuscript, I spent time copyediting the text. Ensuring consistency with the styling of subheadings and use of vocabulary, grammar and punctuation, I added to my style sheet.

I spent a further week proofreading the manuscript. By then I realised I was far too close to the text and fed up with it. I knew there would still be errors, but I wasn’t in a position to read it objectively.

Why did I self-publish?

I have been asked why I used the process of self-publishing. Mainly I self-published because my indie children’s book authors asked me about the process. They are looking for support. I wanted to answer their questions.

When I had a lull in proofreading work, I realised I had the time and energy to carry out my project.

Using a trained editor or proofreader

I needed an independent, fresh pair of eyes; I needed a proofreader I could trust and who appreciated the content in my blog posts. A kind edibuddy offered her proofreading as a skill swap – in return I would proofread her blog posts. She provided a comprehensive service in an efficient way.

Asking someone else to check your text is essential before publishing. I recommend you either:

  • Pay a trained copyeditor to style your Word document. Or …
  • Pay a trained proofreader. This could be the same editor you ask to copyedit your manuscript. Many freelancers provide both services – though a gap in time between passes is recommended to provide for fresh eyes.

Ideally your professional would be trained by a trusted organisation like the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (ciep.uk).

Creating a table of contents

Once I had formatted my Word document with styles for levels of headings, I could insert a Contents page.

I needed help to format the page numbers so that page 1 started at the beginning of Chapter 1 after the Contents page rather than on the first page of my manuscript. I found some support in the Amazon KDP Help pages. In the end my edibuddy formatted the page numbers for me.

Creating a book cover

I was certain I would self-publish my book in the form of an eBook as the cover, being a single page, it would be simpler to design.

I designed my eBook cover by finding a template in Canva. Using my tartan branding which is the design on my website, I replicated my website fonts. That way I could keep my design consistent with my branding.

(I updated the book cover for the first anniversary of its publication.)

The cover of a paperback includes the front cover, spine and back cover in one template. I tried using KDP Cover Creator. Its limitations meant that I couldn’t use the fonts on my website as they weren’t available in the software. As I wanted to make my branding consistent, I would have to find another way to use my chosen fonts.

If you have many images to insert in your non-fiction or children’s picture book, I suggest you use a book designer who is skilled in formatting illustrations. I can recommend a couple on LinkedIn.

Creating my KDP account

I completed the account details for my eBook. I could edit the details on my Amazon KDP Bookshelf. It was helpful that I could save, stop, or continue as time allowed.

KDP asks for personal and tax details to be completed. Next, enter the ISBN (International Standard Book Number). I bought mine from Nielson. Upload your content. Finally, choose a pricing option.

Consider when you want to tell your target audience that your book is available. Plan ahead because KDP needs at least 48 hours to process your account, your manuscript and cover.

Also consider, do you want your readers to pre-order? This is an effective strategy for advertising when your book will be published; it creates anticipation.

How I can help you to self-publish

I can help you self-publish depending on the type of book you want to write. My specialisms are non-fiction, education, middle grade chapter books and picture books.

If you want to self-publish an adult fiction book, that’s not my area, so I can’t help you. But I can refer you to edibuddies who can.

Buy my book

Amazon link to my book published in April 2024: Tall Tartan Talks: My Collection of blog Posts – Tips on Running a Business

Reading resources

I discovered many tips about self-publishing by being a Partner Member of the Alliance of Independent Authors: www.allianceindependentauthors.org

Annie

Sprinkling publishing confidence

Strong arm. I did it!
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Balance the Freelancing See-saw

Balance the freelancing see-saw blog post

Balancing the ups and downs of your freelancing see-saw can be a challenge.

Tall Tartan Talks here … I’ve listed 12 ways in which freelancing is like life on a see-saw with ups and downs, how to maintain control and balance, and how to cope with swings that make us panic.

Scheduling time for each aspect helps give a sense of control. As a freelance proofreader, I try to manage the swings so that my schedule is manageable. A tip I have learnt: things may not get done unless they are scheduled. Included here are suggested reminders for fun.

12 Elements to balance

1. Managing clients

Freelancers need to balance client expectations, contend with deadlines and project requirements, while ensuring you are not overextending yourself or compromising on quality. Some clients raise ‘red flags’ in our minds with their requests. Ask yourself, is this client is a good fit?

2. Managing time

Freelancers need to manage their time efficiently to juggle multiple projects, meet deadlines, and allocate time for administrative tasks, such as invoicing and client communication. Develop the habit of, firstly, scheduling projects to allow ‘wiggle room’ and secondly, working on a job in manageable stages, perhaps easiest part first (or do you prefer to get the hardest part over with?). Try time blocking. Avoid daily overwhelm by taking regular breaks.

Schedule time: #TreatTime (eg do a hobby for 15 minutes.)

3. Managing finances

Freelancers need to manage their income and expenses effectively. There are times when you’ll earn more than expected (fantastic!). Boost your savings. Other times your income may be more limited than usual. Balancing your financial stability is crucial.

Whenever I buy something for my business, eg equipment, software, a course, and receive the receipt, I open my Excel Expenses spreadsheet and list the date and expense. I feel more efficient and in control. This means I am up to date with my evidence by 6 April for filing my HMRC Self Assessment Tax Return.

When I return the completed proofread I attach my invoice – this time opening my pinned Excel Invoices spreadsheet to enter the details promptly. Go so far as preparing the invoice before completing the job so that just the final details need to be entered.

Schedule time: #AdminMonday #FinanceFriday

4. Using time efficiently in times of famine

Freelancers can experience periods of busy work schedules and high demand (feast) followed by slower times with fewer clients and projects (famine). Balancing those extremes can be challenging (see point 3). When a client cancels or postpones work, perhaps another client can be brought forward? Or ask a colleague if they could refer work. Or is it time to book some CPD – that training course you’ve had your mind on?

5. Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Freelancers need to keep their skills up to date to stay knowledgeable and instil trust. Scheduling time for ongoing training and skill improvement with client work is essential for future-proofing your business. I have completed many training courses run by the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP); if you’re a member you get a discount.

Schedule time: #TrainingTuesday

6. Balancing health and well-being

Freelancers need to maintain their physical and mental health. The demands of freelancing can lead to neglecting self-care, so finding the right balance is crucial. At least get out for some fresh air and look up at the clouds. My examples of exercise below use the hashtag popular on the socials (‘stet’ is an editing term meaning ‘Leave the marked word as it is’).

Schedule time: #StetWalk #StetRun #StetCycle #StetSwim

Or stroke a #StetPet

balance freelancing see-saw blog post

7. Networking

Building and maintaining professional relationships and networks are crucial for freelancers. Balancing that time and effort with doing paid client work is vital.

For me networking happens on a particular day when I attend two online groups on Zoom – one in the morning and one in the afternoon. One group is for all breeds of freelancers; the other is run by my Institute and is editor-specific (the CIEP).

Schedule time: #NetworkThursday

8. Marketing

Freelancers may need to promote their services to maintain a steady stream of clients. This can require a delicate balance of marketing efforts. Use social media to show up and show people your services. They won’t know what you do unless you tell them.

But, when work is challenging with a tight deadline, how do you find your next client if you have no time to do any marketing? Scheduling tools for social media posts can be your friend.

Schedule time: #MarketingMonday

9. Work–life balance

Achieving a healthy work–life balance is often a struggle for freelancers. The flexibility of freelancing can sometimes blur the lines between work and personal life, making it challenging to maintain boundaries. Anyone else work at the weekends? Sure, when necessary.

I used to resent it when I was a teacher and using my weekend for marking, assessment, and planning. There just wasn’t enough time during the week. My family suffered. I never saw them. I felt guilty. If you do feel the need to work at the weekend, make sure you balance it by taking one or two days off during the week to maintain control of your freelancing see-saw. And make time to see the people in your life who are important.

Schedule time: #FamilyFriday

10. Doing a variety of projects

Freelancers often work on a variety of projects with different requirements and clients. Balancing diverse tasks and meeting client expectations is like adjusting weight on a see-saw.

I prefer to book an easy project after the challenges of a long, complicated project as a way of changing gears. Of course, what is easy to one freelancer is not easy to another; it depends on our strengths and interests. How about treats or rewards? Do you reward yourself when a task or stage or project is complete?

Schedule time: #TreatTime (This hashtag also appeared in point 2 but treats are important to me as a great motivator!)

11. To specialise or generalise?

Freelancers can take the opportunity to specialise by providing editing or proofreading services in their niche. Editors that generalise say they can edit both fiction and non-fiction. Specialists offer editing in specific genres of fiction or non-fiction. The choice is yours. Using a previous career is a good starting point for a specialism as you already have more knowledge in that field than others, eg education, law, medicine, music. Or, you may want to move into a new area.

12. Flexibility versus stability

Freelancing offers flexibility but can lack the stability of a traditional job with an employer. Balancing the desire for freedom and autonomy with the need for financial security is an ongoing challenge. Flexibility of work hours and choice of clients is preferable, but the temptation of a regular income can be strong.

Balancing

Overall, freelancing, like being on a see-saw, involves constant adjustments and careful balancing and control to ensure a successful and fulfilling freelance life.

Up and down, up and down … How do you ride the peaks and troughs? How do you stay calm? Finding the right balance for each of these aspects is a key challenge for freelancers. But so rewarding when it works!

Sprinkling publishing confidence,

Annie

balancing the freelancing seesaw
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Reading further

5 Most Read Blog Posts

5 most read blog posts

As it’s the start of a new year I have been using Google Analytics to investigate the statistics of my website.

Tall Tartan Talks here … What did Google Search Console tell me are the most popular blog posts and pages on my website?

Content marketing

I was interested to see which posts are the most popular and how my content is helping others, whether that’s fellow freelance editorial colleagues or clients (including self-publishing authors).

This analysis is aiding me in planning content; I’m spending some admin time planning blog posts for the next six months, thinking of ways to show my expertise. How to answer questions that I see being asked on social media or in online support groups. Or, indeed, am asked directly by email. Writing blog posts is an effective way to answer those questions.

Questions asked

Questions I’ve been asked frequently are concerned with running a business as a freelancer:

  • How do I become a freelance proofreader or copyeditor? What training should I do? Where can I get support? Clue: join a professional body like the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP) which gives discounts to members for training courses, as well as supportive forums and local groups, etc …
  • How do I set up a website?
  • How do I cope with feelings of overwhelm when setting up a new business?
  • How do I keep my inbox manageable?

5 Most read blog posts

I investigated the Google Analysis results and the 5 most read are seen below with links to each post. It also acts as a prompt in case you missed one and want a chance to visit the post.

  1. Review of 2022
  2. CIEP2022 conference
  3. Gardening Your Business
  4. 6 Website features you should check
  5. Manage emails

4 Most popular website pages

These pages of my website are ranked as having the most visitors:

3 Favourite blog posts to write

The following posts were my favourite to write over the last few years because they show my expertise to prospective clients:

For publishing confidence

Why blog? Having a blog post ready when a query pops into my email box makes it much easier and quicker to answer questions that are asked by fellow freelancers and clients, particularly independent authors. In short, giving the link to the post is more efficient and effective. And gives them confidence that I can help.

If you don’t have a website, sending a prospective client a link to your up-to-date LinkedIn profile will inspire confidence in that client that you have the training and expertise they need.

Two related questions I’ve been asked (to be turned into a blog post) are: What does a proofreader do/not do? And: Do you have any tips on how can I proofread my own marketing materials/writing?

If there is any topic you would like me to write a blog post about, let me know. I’m listening.

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