We recently connected with Jessica Allowski and have shared our conversation below.
Jessica, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?
I asked myself, “Why would anyone choose to hire me when there are so many fantastic freelance editors out there who are more experienced and business savvy than I am?” I knew I needed a niche, but my editing experience was all over the place.
If I were looking for an editor, I thought, I would want a good experience more than anything. Writers have their own personalities, preferences, insecurities, and styles. I’m good at anticipating the needs of sensitive introvert writers because I am one.
So I decided to create a (virtual) space that would feel welcoming and safe for people who have rich inner worlds but are hesitant to share them, who want meaningful connection but not small talk. And because editors usually specialize by genre, I suspected this idea was either a fantastic way to set myself apart or the worst idea ever and would immediately fall flat.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My business, Cozy Cottage Editing, offers introvert-friendly line and copy editing, proofreading, and beta reading. Right now I’m working mostly with indie fiction, but I also edit nonfiction books and online courses.
The cozy cottage concept was meant to evoke a warm and welcoming feeling for sensitive introverts who are anxious about sharing their writing with an editor. It’s important to me that my clients feel comfortable and seen, can trust me with their vulnerability, and maintain a sense of autonomy regarding their work. My editing is thorough, yes, but also compassionate and flexible.
My goal is to give writers a pleasant, nourishing experience along with the improved manuscript.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
Slow marketing has helped me attract the right people while supporting my own values and pace. An aggressive marketing strategy was not going to suit them or me; introverts usually prefer less rush and more time for reflection. I love Sarah Santacroce’s suggestion to replace the sales funnel with gentle sales paths, which give potential clients more options and ways to get there. And if they have the space to make aligned choices, you can build genuine relationships based on trust and respect–essentials for my work.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
Instagram is my main platform–almost all my clients and sample requests have come from there. I don’t post often, but I share ideas, let people see my business exists, and support writers and other editors. Even if most writers I speak with don’t end up hiring me, I learn so much about indie authors and the writing community in general.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.cozycottageediting.com
- Instagram: @cozycottageediting