Do you need a consultation? Sometimes authors get stuck and lose forward motion when it comes to their projects. They aren’t sure how to proceed after finishing the writing or even after they publish their books. There are periods throughout the process of producing a book where a shift must take place. The individual becomes a writer. The writer soon becomes a hopeful author. The hopeful author becomes a published author. The author becomes a marketing agent for his/her book. And along the way—throughout his journey—the author may need assistance.
There are numerous books and periodicals for authors at various stages of writing and producing a book. There are writers conferences and groups that meet and assist one another. And there is also the consultant. I sometimes consult with hopeful and progressing authors. Sometimes the consultation is successful and useful for the author and other times not so much. What makes the difference? Here are some tips to help the author have a more valuable consultation experience.
1: Be clear as to what sort of advice or guidance you require.
2: Clearly describe your project, where you are in the process and exactly what sort of information, resources or other assistance would help you at this point.
3: Take the initiative to study the publishing industry so you understand enough about it to know what is expected of you as an author and how to proceed through the process. This will help you to know what you need and to ask the right questions.
4: Give the consultant the information and background he asks for. Many authors take up the consultant’s time with a lot of description and information he does not need.
5: When the consultant offers suggestions and ideas, avoid saying things like, “Oh, I’ve done that.” “I’ve tried that—doesn’t work.” Most authors do this when they are resistant to the idea and don’t want to give it a good try. Sure, they might have done one book signing that didn’t pan out or they joined an organization, but didn’t participate. Listen and learn.
6: Try to go along with the mode of consultation the consultant suggests. Some consultants work better via telephone or an in-person meeting. Others can be more helpful via email. I find email works best for me, although occasionally I can help an individual via a phone call if the author is prepared with questions, if the questions are fairly generic and if the author is a good listener.