Short Story Consult

The story consult is a free, twenty- to thirty-minute virtual meeting where we get to know each other, delve into your vision for your story, and decide if we’re a good fit to work together. If you’re interested in hiring me for critique, editing, or coaching, this initial consult is the first step.

• Preparation. Prior to the meeting, I’ll go over your documents and prepare my notes.
• Initial impressions. During the session, I’ll ask about your vision for the story and the kind of feedback you’re looking for while I get acquainted with you, your voice and your style. We’ll talk about your experience with writing and revision and your writing goals.
• Q & A. You are welcome to ask any questions about my skills, experience, approach, etc.
• Clear steps forward. To wrap up, I’ll let you know if I can help and recommend the service(s) that best fit your needs, my rates, and the expected timeline.
• Follow-up. After the meeting, I’ll send you an email summarizing our discussion, the estimate for the project, and the services I outlined. You are welcome to take all the time you need to decide how you would like to go forward.

To make an accurate assessment of the story, I will ask you to send the following three documents at least three business days before your appointment. (I’ve been told that my intake requirements are more rigorous than some folks like. You’ve been warned!)

1. Your complete story manuscript in Word format, double-spaced with one-inch margins and 12 pt Times New Roman font.
2. A voice recording of you reading the story. It doesn’t have to be professional—I just want to hear how you mean for the story to be read.
3. The answers to my manuscript assessment questions.