Become The Published Author You Always Dreamed Of Being… Even If You Can’t Write…

It is every writers dream to not only see their name printed on the cover of their very own book, but also see that book nestled nicely on the shelves of a bookstore. If this is every writers dream then why are bookstores lacking books from so many talented writers? Many writers do not understand that getting their work published is much easer then they thought, even without an agent. With so many small professional publishing companies to choose from, there is absolutely no reason why any writer’s work should go un-published. That is where I can help. Below are 7 steps that will help you get your book published.

Finish Your Book!

If you have not already, it’s time to finish your book. Take your time and make sure you are happy with it, but remember that publishing companies will not finish your book for you. This may sound ridiculous, but you would not believe how many unfinished books are presented to editors and publishers every year. You have worked so hard on this book, now it is time to give it the best ending you can.

Understand Your Audience.

Make sure that you have a specific audience or a few specific audiences. Do not try to please everyone as publishers and editors commonly do not like to work with a book that is one half fiction, horror, comedy and one half non-fiction, romantic, fairy-tale. If is too “non-specific,” you will have a very difficult time marketing it.

If your book is not a novel, ask yourself a few questions. Who would want to read this book? What is this book about and where does it take place? Editors want to know these things, even before they read your book (if the do).

Know The Market.

Publishing companies are becoming more and more specific. Some publishing companies only specialize in non-fiction or fiction novels. Other publishing companies can be so specific that they only publish books on history or cook books. If you start contacting every publishing company on the internet, you may never find the right one. Instead, take a little time and do the research. In the end it will save you time, grief and maybe even money.

Prepare Your Manuscript.

If your manuscript is not perfect and in professional order, don’t even try to give it to an editor. Today, editors will not accept a manuscript that is not in a professional format, even if it is their best friends manuscript. Make sure it is printed on high-grade white paper with jet ink. Hand written or typewriter manuscripts will almost always be rejected. Use a readable font and always double-space your writing. One inch margins are widely accepted and triple check your spelling and grammar. Most publishers want both a hard copy as well as a digital copy, so make sure you don’t leave one at home.

Let It Fly!

After all this preparation, it is finally time to send out your manuscript. Use a manuscript box if you are sending it by mail and always address it to the editor’s name. (Not just “To: Editor”) If you do not want your manuscript to ever see the fate of a paper shredder, send an envelope with both a return address as well as sufficient postage. If your manuscript is not accepted, most editors will not take the time to package and send it back to you.

Hurry Up And Wait.

Editors are not working on your time and do not care how long you have been waiting for their response. Most editors receive hundreds of manuscripts a month and are working over-time to get to all of them. Be patient because results could take months.

Use Your Time Wisely.

Use this time to continue in the hunt for publishers. Start working on your next masterpiece and continue to perfect your skills. The fight is not over and as a writer you should always be working towards the next level. If your manuscript does not make the cut, do not take it personally because you are not alone. Finding that perfect publisher may take some time and frustration, but in the end it will all be worth it.

By: Kipp Grange