So you’ve written a book? Now what? How do you go about getting that book into the world? Which route should you take? The publishing world can be pretty mystifying at the best of times. Read on for our top tips on how to navigate the industry and increase your chances of getting published…
1. Read like a writer The best way to improve your publication prospects is to learn from the pros: read everything, from classics to chick-lit, then work out how they do it.
2. Write 'Write what will stop your breath if you don't write…' Grace Paley
On the tube, in your lunch hour, in the bath, it doesn't matter where or when, just write. The more you write the quicker you'll find your voice and develop the stories you want to tell… and others will want to read.
Then rewrite. Your writing needs to stand out and hook the reader from the very first page. This takes work. Get feedback from a creative writing workshop, an editor/mentor, or a fellow writer you trust. Keep revising until it's ready to go.
3. Do a writing course with a proven track record Many of the best offer an end-of-year reading to invited industry guests. Take advantage of these opportunities to attract an agent.
4. Get a short story published Enter short story or novel writing competitions; submit to magazines in print and online. It'll do wonders for your confidence and may just interest an agent in your work.
5. Do your research There's no point sending your crime fiction to an agent who specializes in children's books. Buy or borrow The Writers' and Artists' Yearbook or follow agents on social media. Find out which agents represent the writers you love. Chances are they may be interested in your work too. Look out for new agents who are actively seeking to build their list.
6. Present yourself as a professional Approach agents with the right package: the first three chapters of your novel (double-spaced and triple-checked for typos); a synopsis (one page); and a brief covering letter asking if they want to see more. Remember to address it to a real person. And tailor each covering letter with a mention of something unique to that specific agent so that they know you’re genuinely interested in approaching them, and not just doing a mass mail out!
7. Meet the agent If an agent wants to meet you, be prepared to talk about your next book too. If you have to choose between agents, schedule meetings with all of them. Make your decision based on the one you think will represent you best: you could be with them for a long time! Never pay an agent. They operate on a commission basis (usually 15-20%) and should only receive money if they sell your book.
8. Be Flexible Congratulations: you've signed with an agent and now you've landed a deal for your first novel. The work's over: you can sit back and relax, right? Wrong! An editor may want several changes to your book from the structure to the title. Don't be precious. Work hard and be prepared to 'murder your darlings'. Once the book is published, be ready to help market and promote it everywhere.
9. Grow a thick skin Most successful writers have at least three books 'under the bed'. Don't be disheartened by rejection. Make like Stephen King and 'nail' those rejection slips to the wall. Then start writing again.
10. Consider self-publishing. The digital revolution has transformed the publishing industry with many authors now considering going it alone. Self-publishing comes with many advantages, not least the percentage of royalties you can expect (70% for ebooks, 50% for print books). To make a real success of it, though, you’ll need to make sure your book is in the best possible shape (see 1-2 above), and ensure your cover design is as professional as possible. And if hiring a book marketing expert is beyond your budget, plan a marketing campaign six months ahead of publication.
Interested in finding out more? The Book Edit are launching a brand new introductory How To Get Published Course. Hit the button below to be on the list to find out more.