If you have decided to write a non-fiction book, say, a personal journey of faith, a self-help or spiritually inspirational book, you may wonder who can help you. After all, trying to get your book published could turn out to be a disappointing adventure if your manuscript does not meet the high standards set by today’s book publishers.

I’m well aware that far too many would-be book authors fail to take even the most basic steps in writing a publishable book. To write a book that has even the slightest chance of being published calls for significant expertise beyond writing a book. A writing coach can provide that expertise to support you in your goal of being published.

So what are helpful qualifications you should be looking for in a non-fiction writing coach? Let me break them into two categories.

Background and Training

• Experience in a Christian book publishing house, either in acquisitions or in the copy editing department.
• Hopefully experience as a published writer.
• Experience in the use of The Chicago Manual of Style.
• Experience with the specialized Christian styles used in Christian publishing.

Specialized Qualifications

• Participates in writers conferences to stay current on changing publishing environments.
• Loves reading new books that have strong market appeal to absorb the latest writing styles.
• Evidences knowledge of the changing writing styles gaining a foothold in the book field.
• Recognizes unique approaches to shaping a book that increase appeal.
• Has an encouraging spirit that breaks through barriers to improvements in writing approach and style.
• Is more interested in upgrading the author’s style than in creating a masterpiece showing off the coach’s abilities.
• Has already received endorsements from authors he/she worked with as writer coach.