Much of what we write will never be published outside of a blog, newsletter or email. Sure, our critique partners read our stories and cover them in red ink, but that’s not quite the same thing as seeing it in book form. Oh, how we long to call ourselves “published authors.” There’s something about getting published that validates our writing.
So, what does it take to transition from unpublished to published?
Is there some sort of magic formula? I would like to offer my thoughts in three basic steps.
STEP ONE: Write the manuscript of your heart.
I mean this quite seriously. If you write on a subject you’re passionate about, it will show in your writing. Don’t worry about what’s trendy and what’s not. Trends change as quickly as the seasons.
Above all else, as you’re writing that manuscript, don’t let others—even well meaning critique partners—rob you of your unique voice. I know, I know…those naysayers are everywhere. I’ve heard plenty of them over the years. And I listened to a few, who nearly derailed me. Just stay the course. Write, write, write, then edit, edit, edit.
STEP TWO: Take the time to learn the submission process.
I’ll give you the basics here. Research the publishing house(s) you will target. Write a professional query letter, sharing a bit about yourself and the manuscript. Send it to the editor at the house (in the appropriate department) and use his/her actual name in the email.
If the editor is interested, send a brilliantly written book proposal. This proposal will share the book’s genre, word count, synopsis, marketing strategy, comparative analysis, and will share all sorts of information about you, the author.
The publisher wants to know what groups/organizations you belong to, your prior publishing credits, if any, and any other pertinent information. If you’ve been building a platform by writing a blog, this will be helpful, so list it. If you’re a sought-after public speaker, list this, too.
STEP THREE: Understand the seasons.
Your book (or article) will likely face multiple rejections. Don’t let this get you down. Remember, you want your story to land at the perfect house…and at just the right time.
Everything has its season, and seasons are cyclical. A “no” today could be a “yes” tomorrow. And trust me when I say that it’s more important to land at the right house than to get published right away. Trust that the season you’re in won’t last forever. Keep your chin up, keep submitting, and never, never, never give up.
So, there you have it. Three steps toward publication. Deep breath, author! Now…take that first step!
