About CaTyra
CaTyra Polland is the CEO/Founder of Love for Words (an editing boutique) a published author, speaker/instructor, and cat mom to Honeycomb. She is also the Creator/Hostess of Editor Knows Best, an international writing and editing podcast for literary professionals.
She is a Rochester Business Journal Forty Under 40 Honoree and the Professional Development Chair of the Rochester Young Professionals. CaTyra enjoys traveling, going to concerts, slam poetry, and going to the beach.
Interview With Winn Publications
Winn Publications: How did your journey as an author begin?
I wanted to create a resource for students and employees who need an introduction to or refresher on professionalism. Professionalism, What’s That is the first book I published. I observed various situations that were handled poorly such as poor customer service, failure to deliver on promises, and inappropriate attire in professional settings. I wrote the book to equip our workforce with the tools and information necessary to be successful.
Winn Publications: Was becoming a writer something you always wanted to pursue?
Yes, I started writing poetry and middle school. I credit my high school English teacher Mrs. Skelly with nurturing my love for writing poetry. She helped me appreciate the craft by studying other poets.
Winn Publications: Who motivated you?
My English teacher, Mrs. Skelly. My mom, Cassandra. My aunt, Shire. My aunt, Shelly. My grandma, Shelia. My godmother, Sharon.
Winn Publications: Since becoming a published author, what challenges have you faced if any?
Repurposing my book for marketing and branding purposes. Professionalism, What’s That can be a resource for human resources departments, colleges, high schools, businesses etc. I struggle with attracting organizations to use the book as a reference/guide for their agencies.
Winn Publications: How many books have you written?
2 books, 1 journal, 1 anthology, and 1 workbook
Winn Publications: What is your genre?
Non-fiction, poetry, and professional development
Winn Publications: What message do you want your readers to take away when reading your books?
I hope my poetry inspires others to tap into their emotions. I want people to realize we all have trauma but we can overcome it. I hope my poetry motivates others to pursue their dreams.
Winn Publications: Do you have any writing tips/suggestions for any new author who wants to write their book but doesn’t know where to start?
I recommend starting with creating chapter titles and filling in the information accordingly. Creating the chapter titles/table of contents first gives writers a blueprint or outline to organize the book.
Also, research similar books in the genre or style you are writing. You can use them as a reference and to gather research.
Winn Publications: Are you currently working on any new book projects? If so, when can we expect them to be released?
I just finished my e-book, Editor Knows Best. You can get a free copy when you subscribe to Love for Words newsletter on my website.
I finished my first children’s book, Two Shades Deep. I am currently searching for an illustrator.
Winn Publications: How can readers connect with you and support you?
- Write and post a review
- Create and post a review video
- Tell me how my book(s) inspires him/her
- Contact me for potential collaborations
- Like my page on Instagram: @pollandllc
- Like my page on Twittter: @pollandllc
- Connect with me on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/cpolland
- Like my page on Facebook www.facebook.com/pollandllc
