Real Words

Note: This is a guest post by James Adams. His contact information is at the end of the article.

You are a good writer. Why then do options to self publish dominate your professional landscape when you could join the ranks of mainstream authors who actually get paid to write for publishers?

Many writers want to see their work in print; the stacks of manuscripts that swamp editors and agents testify to that. The challenge is how to get your writing noticed by publishers. The 9 tips listed here can help.

1. Formulate a compelling proposal. When you submit your work to an editor, formulate an attention-grabbing appeal that illustrates why your work deserves attention more so than the work of othres. Explain what you think your work will accomplish for readers and for the publisher and how you are willing to help make the product a success.
2. Get your spelling and grammar right. Most editors can probably understand one slipup or two when it comes to correct grammar and spelling, but if you submit a manuscript with an error on every page your editor will probably not be impressed. If you are ready for the big time show it by submitting perfect work.
3. Find some help. Experienced authors out there will help you navigate your way around the publishing industry. Some may advise you for free if you establish a good relationship, but many will charge a fee for their services. Before paying, however, check references to avoid a scam and to make sure the person has the credentials and experience to be worth your while.
4. Don’t give up. Every time a publisher rejects your work you have one more reason to quit: don’t. Often in the publishing business “no” means “try back later” so you could give up while on the doorstep of a breakthrough. Also, a reply could take two to three months, so keep your optimism alive.
5. Know your genre. Immerse yourself in the style and time period of your work and show that you have done your homework. Publishers usually are not impressed by anachronisms that are not part of your intentional style. Prove your diligence and make sure that all the components of your work are consistent.
6. Get them hooked. Begin your work with compelling material that seizes the attention of your readers and keep them baited throughout your work. If your readers find your work riveting, so will your publisher.
7. Write an appropriate query letter. Address the editor by name, not by “To whom it may concern”. Ask for permission to send in your work for consideration. Include reasons why the publisher should use your work. Be gracious and thankful for the editor’s time and consideration. Afterwards, avoid pestering the editor for status updates.
8. Use your expertise. Don’t write a cookbook if your specialty is nuclear physics. Amateurs are everywhere, so why would a publisher pay for non-authoritative work? Write about the things you know. If you are not an expert at anything try developing a specialty before trying to get published. Everyone is an expert on themselves so think about writing a memoir or autobiography if you have unique experiences to share.
9. Submit your work in proper format. If you do not use the font, spacing, and other formatting requirements stipulated by the editor, you advertise your inability to follow directions, your lack of cooperation, and possibly your ignorance of the publisher’s guidelines. If you do not know what format an editor requires, find out before you submit your work.

Command the attention of publishers by following these 9 tips for how to get your writing noticed. With diligence, determination, and patience, you will achieve your goals.

James Adams is a writer who reports on new tech gadgets and reviews hardware like the CLI-521 at a supplier of ink cartridges based in the UK.