It seems that publishing is being discussed in many circles and in varieties of venues. People from all areas of interest and knowledge levels are writing books or talking about it. And discussions, as well as articles on topics related to writing and publishing are showing up at home décor, craft, parenting, pet, spiritual, etc. sites and forums.
You might see a comment, blog post or article about writing at a senior site you frequent, at your favorite gardening or travel site. The newsletter coming from your business, investment, cat breeders, pilots or boating association may run an article about writing a book.
And some of the most unlikely people are cropping up with books of their own—a clerk at your local supermarket, the gal who operates a bed and breakfast in town, your tax accountant, the wife of your personal trainer and the crazy woman you run into at the dog park every week.
It’s wonderful that so many people from all walks of life are able to express themselves through words, capture their memories on paper, share something meaningful with others or entertain readers with their storytelling skills. I know the joy of writing and of being read. Writing and publishing has been a huge part of my life for over 35 years. Coming with that territory, of course, is promotion.
Yes, I am pleased that people are living their writing/publishing dreams, but it upsets me to see so many of them going about it the wrong way.
What is the wrong way to approach a publishing project? Here’s the short list:
• Lack of knowledge about the publishing industry and no interest in or inclination to educate oneself.
• No financial backing—trying to launch a book without funds of any kind (for an editor, for book promotion and/or for actually publishing that book).
• Writing a book without making sure there is a true audience for it.
• Expecting a large return on your publishing investment.
• Lack of writing skills.
• Lack of research with regard to your publishing options.
• Signing a contract without fully understanding it.
• No interest in promoting your book.
If you recognize yourself in this list, you are a candidate for my book, The Right Way to Write, Publish and Sell Your Book. Herein, you will gain the understanding and the knowledge you need to more realistically plan and carry out your publishing project from start to a more successful finish no matter what your topic or genre is.