Hi friends! I am emerging from my deadline cave for a moment because I am thrilled to have my virtual assistant, who also happens to be my youngest daughter, share a guest post today, allowing me to continue writing. I hope you enjoy!

Hi everyone! My name is Kayla Godfrey, and I am a virtual assistant, specifically a virtual assistant for authors! Ever since I was a little girl, I have loved reading, writing, and everything literature! I guess it’s not surprising that I am the daughter of an author! However, I never imagined I would be working with authors, helping to promote their books, organize their emails, and help them set up events! I also get to peek behind the curtain and be a small part of an author’s life, so today I’m excited to share five things I have learned from working with authors!

So let me take you behind the scenes of an author’s world! 

With all the intricate plotlines, layered characters, and jaw-dropping twists, you might be led to believe authors are always organized and have everything together. I imagine that’s true for some authors, but in my experience…authors have sticky notes everywhere, bulletin boards that are almost indecipherable, and about ten reminders, at the minimum, on their phone for a task. I often find myself sending reminder texts almost every day. Don’t worry, my clients are always grateful for those much-needed reminders!

One of my favorite things about authors is that they always have their own unique writing routines and needs. A cup of coffee, I’m looking at you, Mom! A pair of fuzzy socks, a special playlist, or a comfy blanket…no author has the same writing routine. I have often sent gift cards or gone on coffee runs for my clients while they’re on their deadline for additional encouragement. This is not a skill requirement for virtual assistants, in case you’re wondering! 

When I open my email inbox for the day, I never quite know what to expect! Authors are always equipped with the most unique conversations to discuss their next plot, a new character, or the wildest location for their next book. My clients and I often have people turn their heads in curiosity and at times concern while we brainstorm ideas and enjoy a cup of coffee at a local bookstore or coffee shop. 

Even when an author has just released a book, there’s a good chance that they are already writing their next story or, at the very least, scribbling ideas down in a notebook. An author’s work is never done, nor is their creative mind ever taking a break.

I have been a virtual assistant since 2021, and one of my favorite things I have learned is that authors are some of the most amazing people you will ever meet, and I’m not just saying that because they pay me! Authors have to face what seems like an endless stream of reviews, some good and some bad, never-ending deadlines, and juggling all the aspects of life. Yet, the perseverance of my clients never ceases to amaze me! Even if they are in the middle of a deadline or have heard a harsh critique of their work, they are ready to push on! Write the next story, do the next interview, or attend a much-anticipated conference. They are there with the biggest smile on their face and the greatest appreciation for their readers. My clients have encouraged me in difficult moments and have inspired me with their faith and never-ending perseverance to keep doing what God has called them to do. Writers are truly amazing! 

It has been such a pleasure to spend some time with you, and thank you to my fabulous Mom, for not only allowing me to be a part of her writing journey but for finding the perfect balance of being a mom and an author. Being your virtual assistant is a dream, but being your daughter is the biggest blessing and honor from the Lord.

P.S. Thank you to everyone who has supported my mom or any of my clients! Words can’t express the gratitude we have for your support!

What is one of your favorite things you have learned from or about an author?