1: The author either doesn’t attend lectures and workshops presented by professionals in the publishing/book promotion field or he attends some, but discounts the speakers’ suggestions.
2: The author hires an editor or a publishing consultant and doesn’t heed their advice.
3: The author neglects to hire an editor.
4: The author writes the book she wants to write without considering her audience.
5: The author has his book packaged in a bland cover, thinking that the cover doesn’t matter—it’s what’s inside.
6: The author does not research beyond finding an agent and expects his job to be over at that point.
7: The author hears about the concept of book promotion and marketing, but doesn’t think it applies to him or her.
8: The author learns that it is up to him or her to promote their book, but chooses not to go there.
9: The author signs with the first pay-to-publish company that he stumbles across.
10: The author doesn’t understand the contract, but signs it anyway.
11: The author expects his pay-to-publish or traditional publisher to handle all promotion.
12: The author doesn’t have a clue about the business of publishing.
If you see yourself in these scenarios, you are either already published and highly disappointed in the experience or you will soon be. What’s the remedy?
Study the publishing industry so you know what to expect and how to more successfully navigate this highly competitive business. Start by reading “Publish Your Book, Proven Strategies and Resources for the Enterprising Author.” It’s at Amazon.com and most other online and downtown bookstores.