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Career Tips for Writers
Writing can be a rewarding and exciting experience, especially if
you establish yourself as a literary professional. See yourself as an
entrepreneur in charge of a small business and conduct your affairs
professionally. Following are some helpful tips:
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Read. Read. Read. Find out what books are selling and determine
marketplace voids you can fill. In addition, read books about the
publishing industry and the different ways you can promote your books.
Learn how to gain the interest and loyalty of readers—don’t put all of
your energy and focus in your publisher for your book’s success... readers
are the author’s lifeline!
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Join a writer’s organization. Networking with others interested
in the literary field as well as with published authors is energizing
and informative. It is also vital to establishing good contacts.
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Purchase a reliable computer and printer. It will make your life
a lot easier. If you can, throw in a fax machine!
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Before you submit your first manuscript, seek the services of a
professional editor. Try to find one with experience in the publishing
industry. At the very least, your manuscript should be free of
grammatical and typographical errors before you submit it to an
agent.
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Get business cards. This is important as you network, especially
for keeping your name in the forefront of booksellers, reviewers, media
people, publisher’s salespeople, etc. Don’t forget to purchase or create
stationery for corresponding and sending thank-you letters.
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Create a website. Your readers will want to know your tour
schedule, latest books, and how to contact you—so be sure you include an
e-mail link. A guest book or site counter is a good idea too.
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Document media appearances, phenomenal sales, position/length of
time on best-seller lists, awards, speaking engagements, workshops, and
other promotional information. Keep a copy of reviews that praise your book,
and don’t forget to make a copy of articles where you have been featured.
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A file cabinet would probably be handy to organize everything
such as royalty statements, promotional information, tax documents, etc.
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Attend literary conferences and events.
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Keep a day planner, BlackBerry, secretary, (or whatever works) to
maintain your busy schedule of book signings, interviews, meetings,
appearances, events, phone conferences, spa treatments…you get the idea.
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