How writers can be their authentic best: Insights from author Fiona Fenwick

Fiona Fenwick has more than forty years experience in corporate communications, reputation management, writing, and as a writing coach and motivational coach.

Author and writing coach Fiona Fenwick

Fiona wrote Stand Out and Step Up in 2017. The book draws on Fiona's international experience protecting the reputations of prominent individuals and organisations, from global giants to small start-ups, and authors and executives. It covers what everyone who has a public profile needs to know to understand the value of reputation and how it can shape your success.

With a passion for the New Zealand Wine and Food Industries, Fiona has been named one of Cuisine Magazine’s most influential and inspiring women in food and drink in Aotearoa New Zealand in 2023. Find Fiona at her website linked above, on Instagram, and on LinkedIn. Fiona reveals some of the coaching advice she gives to writers and how writers can be their authentic best, her current favourite books, and how she approached her nonfiction business book Stand Out and Step Up.

How writers can be their authentic best

OCW: What life experiences have shaped your writing style?

Stand Out and Step Up, the nonfiction book on building and taking care of your reputation, by Fiona Fenwick.

FF: I’ve always enjoyed and valued the connection with the people I come into contact with, from large audiences to online training through to one-on-ones.

When I wrote Stand Out and Step Up, I wanted to extend this personal connection so I wrote it in a very conversational style so it would almost feel like having a chat with my reader. My hope is that if they get a feel for my authentic self then I’m walking the walk!

OCW: Can you trace any common themes across your writing?

FF: My passion is supporting others to find ways of being their authentic best. We have created a massive industry of self-help books that can often make us feel worse rather than better. So my common theme will always be to embrace who you truly are, tap into what moves you and embrace the life you’re living. Be uniquely and gratefully you!

Book recommendations from Fiona Fenwick!

OCW: Which authors and/or types of books do you like to read?

FF: I love learning about the journeys of others and how they are using their one wild and precious life to benefit or influence others. Right now, my nightstand has: Jacinda Ardern's (ex Prime Minister of New Zealand, International Diplomat and Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School in Boston) A Different Kind of Power  - a deeply personal memoir by someone who insists on authenticity. It is raw and vulnerable and a great leadership read. Mel Robbins' Let Them and Amy Cuddy's book Presence - both highly influential women making significant impacts. And for pure joy, What you’re looking for is in the Library, by Michiko Aoyama.  

Writers - surround yourself with a trusted, supportive team

OCW: What advice/guidance would you give to writers?

FF: Writing can be a challenge for some because it's a solitary experience and so there may be times when self-doubt or hesitation arises. Self-care is so important. Eat and sleep well, take walks, set aside your writing for a while, and connect with other writers and friends. When I am coaching writers, I advise them to stay true to their ideas but build a trusted 'advisory team' who can challenge, prompt, and support them in a trusted and safe environment. Writers need constant reality checks to keep them on track, but it is always worth it!

OCW: Do you see generative AI as a benefit or a threat to writers?

FF: I see benefits and draw backs in equal measure. But it’s here and we need to find ways of ensuring it doesn’t stifle our creativity or impact our originality. Let’s keep finding ways to use this valuable tool but not lose ourselves or our skills in the process.