Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in freelancing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jessica Kincaid, Founder of Literary Attention, located in Anchorage, AK, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

As the owner of Literary Attention, I am a freelance editor and proofreader. I have the resources and diligence to copyedit and proofread in several different genres (e.g., Medicine, Psychology, Child Development), from resumés to manuscripts. However, I aim to specialize in providing support and resources to Fiction authors looking to self-publish. Science Fiction/Dystopian novels aimed at young adults is a particular fancy. I am familiar with predominant publishing styles, namely, the Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS), the American Medical Association Manual of Style (AMA), and the American Psychological Association Publication Manual (APA). I am proficient in Microsoft Word and Publisher and Adobe PDF, and InDesign. My clients range from larger companies offering proofreading services to working one-on-one with first-time authors.

Tell us about yourself

Coming out of high school, my goal was to become an English teacher, inspiring youth to find their voices through the written word and doing it well. Life had other plans for me. I am the proud mother of two. Although not defined by it, my youngest is a disabled, medically complex individual, and I am his primary caretaker. Freelance editing/proofreading gives me the flexibility my life demands and allows me to still be immersed in what I really love, words. So, my goals were not derailed as much as taken on a detour. It is a privilege to be able to work at something I love and has a passion for. I am often blown away by the inventions of an author's mind, and it thrills me to give writers peace of mind as they prepare their work for the world to read.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is the trust and relationships I have gained with my clients. I love to see the excitement and relief a client feels when they are getting a step closer to their goals.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

For me, the hardest part has been self-promotion and advertising. An introvert, I have struggled to put myself out there, chase new opportunities, particularly out of my comfort zone, and maintain my online presence.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

My top three tips to give someone looking to go into business for themselves today:

  • Firstly, set up a credible presence, whether it is in a brick-and-mortar storefront or online;
  • Second, Build relationships with your clients and other entrepreneurs' network!
  • Lastly, persevere. There is a learning curve to starting a business, and progress may feel slow, but as long as you are moving forward more than you are going backward, you are making it.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://literaryattention.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/literaryattention/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Quezen
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-kincaid-literaryattention/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.