The second thing you MUST do, in order to succeed as a published author, is write a book proposal. Forget about writing it for a publisher. (Although, of course, a publisher will, most likely, want to see it at some point.) The most important reason for writing a book proposal for a nonfiction, fiction and even a children’s book or book of poetry, is YOU. Here’s what you need to know before launching out into this highly competitive field with your manuscript. And this is true whether you plan to land a major publisher; go with one of the many smaller publishers; sign with a pay-to-publish service or self-publish (establish your own publishing company). Through the process of writing a book proposal, you will learn:
1: Is the proposed book a viable product/is there a market for it?
2: Who is my target audience and how large is it?
3: How will I reach this audience?
4: How will I promote the book?
5: What is my competition?
6: What is my platform? (Credentials, expertise, following, way of attracting an audience.) If you don’t have a platform, start now establishing one.
A well-developed book proposal can tell you whether you have a book at all and, if not, how to tweak it so that it is a viable product.
Of course, all of this should be done before even considering writing a book. Unfortunately, many hopeful and new authors operate on emotions rather than business sense. They haven’t learned yet that publishing is not an extension of their writing.
Wake up folks! Why do you think that over three-quarters (3/4) of all books fail? It’s because most authors bypass the onramp to publishing success.
1: They produce a book that is not well-written on a subject of interest to only a small segment of people or a slant that actually repels the very audience they want to attract.
2: Even though they have never written anything before, they trust that they’ve done it well and don’t bother to hire an editor.
3: They start seeking publication immediately after placing the last period. When their book isn’t welcomed with open arms by the majors, they pay a publishing service to produce it. This is okay, if the author is industry-savvy and understands the contract before signing it.
4: They never consider, until it’s too late, that they will have to promote the book. Or they don’t think this truth applies to them.
What’s the answer? What is the key to publishing success? It’s nothing new—it’s not a big secret. Just think back on the other successes you’ve experienced in your lifetime. What were they based on? If you’re candid, your list will probably include:
• Knowledge
• Information
• Research/study
• Experience
• Work/effort/energy
• Persistence
• Practice
• Skills/talent
Yes, your business (sports, parenting, relationship, artistic and other) successes were based on these attributes and activities. It only makes sense that you would consider them when seeking success as an author.
If you need help writing a book proposal order my book, “How to Write a Successful Book Proposal in 8 Days or Less” or my “Publish Your Book.” Both available at http://www.matilijapress.com and amazon.com.