Getting started as an author
Starting as a new author is daunting. You don’t know where to start, and you are unsure of yourself. Believe me, every author feels that way. But there are ways on how to become an author.
Therefore, the best advice is just to begin and the rest will follow. But that’s the easy part.
How do you know that you’re on the right track? Have you done your research? It takes time to know more about writing, publishing and marketing your book.
You need to ensure that readers will enjoy your book.
Most authors today are newbies and not professional writers. You don’t have years of experience. The book publishing industry is an untried beast that looms before you. But you’ve taken the right steps to become a published author.
Now, how do you usually get this knowledge?
Some become members on Facebook groups and ask others for their advice.
I must admit, some advice is very helpful, but many of these people are just like you, also shooting in the dark, trying to figure out how to navigate the publishing industry and writing well to publish their book. They don’t always know what is right.
COMMON QUESTIONS ASKED ON FACEBOOK GROUPS:
- “I want to write a book. Should I self-publish or go traditional?”
- “I wrote a book. Should I look for a publisher or do it myself?”
- “My book is finished. How do I publish it?”
- “I’ve published my book, but I’m having bad results and no sales. What can I do?”
- “How can I become an author without a degree?”
It’s good to learn as much as possible, but if you want to know more about the publishing industry and how to self-publish, then the best way is to train yourself to become better at this job you have undertaken. Yes, writing books is a job.
You need to learn to write and publish.
Groups can’t give you all the information you need.
Take courses by professionals on how to write, edit, market (be careful of scammers–not all courses are given by people who know what they are doing). Attend workshops (virtual or in-person), read books on these topics, and look into what successful authors do and resources they recommend.
These people and resources can teach you a lot, and help you towards fine-tuning your way towards publishing that book.
How did you learn how to write, publish, and market your book? Leave your comments below.
LOOKING FOR AN EDITOR FOR YOUR BOOK?
You’ve finished your book; now what? I can help. I offer professional editing services that will help you eliminate the errors in your manuscript by getting rid of the grammar, punctuation, developmental, line or style issues.
Make the right choice, get a professional editor, I’ll make your manuscript publishing ready.
