Today we’d like to introduce you to Nycole Sinks.
Hi Nycole, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
In 2019 I started copyediting and proofreading for a few small businesses, focusing on marketing materials, blog posts, and websites. My background in business management and sales equipped me with the knowledge to serve my clients well, preserving tone, enhancing clarity, and increasing professionalism through well-edited materials.
In 2023 I completed editing courses through the Editorial Freelancers Association and began editing fiction manuscripts for independent authors and publishers. I fell in love with editing books. I started with beta reading, proofreading, and copyediting before moving into developmental editing, manuscript evaluations, and book coaching.
I continued taking courses through The PEN Institute and increased my knowledge base for devotionals, bible studies, and nonfiction manuscripts. I focused on building connections with colleagues, authors, and publishers, working to expand my portfolio and skillset.
Today I have the pleasure of freelance editing for a few small-to-medium traditional publishing companies. I also partner with independent authors for coaching, copyediting, developmental editing, proofreading, and manuscript evaluations. Finally, I continue to partner with business owners whose reputations and brands benefit from well-edited materials.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I think every journey comes with challenges. It’s part of the growth process. A process that challenges our priorities, perceptions, commitment, faith, and fears. That was certainly the case when I started my freelance editing business.
There are so many decisions to make as a new business owner. One of which is marketing. I struggled with this. I have always loved reading, both fiction and nonfiction and in a variety of genres. I also have a unique background that includes experience in business (management, sales, and finance) and early childhood education (teaching and directing).
I wanted to partner with business owners because I have specific experience that allows me to serve them in a unique way. I wanted to serve publishers and authors because books have been such a large part of my life. Words have the power to teach and transform and being a part of that process is such a privilege. I also have extensive experience with early education, making children’s books a natural point of interest for me.
With a variety of interests and experience and a passion for helping authors and businesses achieve their goals, I struggled with marketing to multiple audiences. I knew I had to tailor my message to individual groups, but I wasn’t well-versed in accomplishing that. I had to learn which marketing efforts impact each specific group and which connect me with the clients I have a heart to serve.
I continue to look for new ways to connect with clients whose goals and dreams align with the services I provide. It’s been a privilege to meet the incredible people I currently work with, and I look forward to connecting with many talented authors, publishers, and business owners in the future.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a developmental editor, copyeditor, and proofreader for businesses, publishers, and authors. I partner with clients to develop their stories, refine their text, and elevate their prose. I am passionate about editing. I love working with the clients. I love the satisfaction of meeting a client’s expectations. I love working with an author to elevate a piece of written work to its highest potential.
Aside from quality editing services, I strive to offer genuine partnerships built on honesty, collaboration, and transparency. Clients who work with me will experience authentic working relationships based on trust, mutual respect, and service. I genuinely want my clients to receive value from the editing I provide, and I work diligently to that end with every project I take on.
I specialize in Christian nonfiction, fantasy, clean romance, cozy mystery, children’s, middle-grade, and young adult novels. I also offer editing services for businesses on marketing materials, blog posts, and websites.
Editing can take on many forms, but I believe first and foremost in collaboration. It is my job to share my knowledge of style guides and industry standards, but those standards should never crowd out the author’s voice or the tone of a company’s brand.
I offer suggestions based on training and experience. I offer encouragement and support. I get to cheer, challenge, and uplift authors as they craft their stories and bring them to life, and it is by far the best job I have ever had.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Life is about relationships, so business success is about more than money. It is about establishing strong and long-lasting partnerships with clients who are genuinely helped through my services. Clients who keep coming back and feel so confident in my character and in the service I provide that they would recommend me to their friends and family.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.positive-proofing.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positiveproofing/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550592450680
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nycolesinks-positiveproofing
- Other: https://www.threads.net/@positiveproofing