While researching for an article, I came across a quote from Proverbs 31:15: “She gives portions to her servant girls.” The context was a wise woman looking after her household and business. Two questions came to mind.

Who’s on my writing team?

How are they rewarded?     

As I considered the answers, I knew it was time to break away from the “solitary writer” mindset and get the help necessary to succeed. I made a list of my needs and what compensation I could offer. This resulted in identifying four key roles that have enhanced my writing and increased my income.

Readers

I asked a former college professor if she’d read some of my work. She had the skills and knew me on a personal level. Opening myself to her feedback helped hone my voice, made my writing more succinct, and brought clarity to my message. I went from publishing op-eds in local outlets to writing in the Belfast Telegraph, one of the UK’s top newspapers. This helped open the way to a recent job writing memoir pieces for a leading marriage ministry.

Though she did not expect payment, I sent a handmade thank you card with money for lunch and a special note to let her know how much I appreciate her.

Organizers

I’m a prolific writer but a poor organizer. Years of rough drafts stuff my drawers, folders, and notebooks. My eldest daughter offered her help.

By the end of the day, all (well, almost all) of my manuscripts were neatly tucked away in the right files. I found ten memoir pieces I loved, had them edited and formatted, and self-published the collection. One of the stories has made it to the quarterfinals in the Cinematic Short Story Contest – ScreenCraft. As the dust settled, I also unearthed a children’s massage book manuscript. Feeling on a roll, I created a cover and birthed another book. I’m now teaching online classes on the subject.

We enjoyed some mother/daughter bonding and are planning a little get away over summer break.

Is your valuable work lost in disorganization? If so, this article has some great tips: 19 Office Organization Ideas In 2021 For Best Productivity

Editors and Proof-readers

A friend announced she offered proofreading and editing services. Although nervous about spending the extra money, I felt it time to make the investment in professional support. Her insights and corrections took my work to a higher level. Two articles were accepted in major publications, one paying the highest amount I’ve ever received. The other led to a ghost-writing job in a leading faith-based magazine.

If the cost has you feeling hesitant, consider starting with just one article or a few chapters. Sometimes we spend so much time looking for new markets, when our success lies in developing the work we already have. Benefits of Hiring a Professional Editor and Proofreader – Papers Unlimited lists a few of the reasons hiring an editor was one of the best investments I’ve made.

Photographers

Many online platforms prefer you have an online presence before they accept your work. Finding the right photograph to complement a blog post or article can make a big difference in looking professional and attracting readers which equates to more connections and more book sales. Beautiful Free Images & Pictures | Unsplash is my go-to for free projects like my blog. I often buy from Canva where I make my book covers.

Dreamstime has a free and paid service as well for professional photography. My niece, an amateur photographer, took the photo for my memoir collection. Although she refused monetary compensation, I enjoyed sending her a few articles of hand-picked clothing.

Team members are more than skill sets. Whether professional or personal relationships, they are a safe place to face weaknesses and grow. I’ve become more intentional about giving them their portion, even as I pursue mine. Your list might be different, but if you are feeling stuck in the “lone writer syndrome,” I encourage you to evaluate who could be – or who is – on your team for greater success.

BIO: Nicole Watt has written for Christianity Today, Dayspring’s (in)courage. Her latest books include Somebody’s Grandfather: True Stories of Identity and Hope, The Children’s Healthy Touch Book: Massage Stories and Techniques for Toddlers to Teens eBook. She blogs at Walking Out of Night on Facebook.