Five Things to Do Before You Submit Your Proposal or Book To A Publisher

So You Want To Be Published…

There are many new methods for getting published today than their were years ago

Some of these methods include traditional publishing, e-platforms, hybrid publishing, and self-publishing

However, this still doesn’t mean that getting published is easy

Remember to follow the rules of the publishing industry for a higher chance of success

The following slides will explain five strategies to increase your chances of getting published

Step 1: Do Your Homework

Never “wing” a book proposal or query

Check the publisher’s website for submission guidelines

Fill out questionnaires included by publishers

Make sure your proposal or query is in the proper format as specified by the publisher

If you have been referred to the agent by another source, mention it in the subject line of your email and briefly remind the person of when and where you met to discuss your project

Step 2: Be Honest

Have you previously self published your book? If so, be honest about it

Don’t try to exaggerate your sales. Publishers can easily check this on their own

Mention any previous publishing efforts (self-publishing, print-on-demand, etc) in your proposal and briefly discuss the results

Explain where your book was sold and in what formats

Step 3: Never Claim There is No Competition Every book, no matter how

unique it may be, has competition

Show that there is real interest in the subject or book

Look at Amazon for reference to similar books

Include at least 4-6 similar titles in your proposal

Write a short paragraph about each title on how your book is different and what the shortcomings of these books was

Distinguish your book from the related titled without claiming to have “the latest and greatest” book on the market

Step 4: Remember to Discuss Publicity/Promotional Opportunities

Publicity and promotion should be the most important part of your pitch

A publisher will not do a majority of the promotion for you

You should already begin promoting or planning a marketing strategy prior to your book’s release

Be very specific with describing your marketing plan

You may want to consider hiring a book promoter

Step 5: Know Why You Want to Write A Book

Will you use the book in relation to your job or business?

Develop a plan for how you will sell your book

Ask yourself, “Why do I need to write this book?”

You may want to create a website, blog, or another platform before you write and publish a book

And the Most Important Thing to Remember Is…

Take your time!

In the book publishing world, the old saying “Patience is a virtue” definitely applies!

Give yourself plenty of time to write your book, research publishers, draft queries and book proposals, and await responses