If you are looking for help and advice on publishing or finding a publisher, you have come to the right web page. The publishing world is a vast and many-faceted place; finding your niche and then working your way into it can be a tricky task. Many seek publisher help, or publishers advice, and it is not always easy to find.
Here are some helpful tips on publishing and choosing a publisher:
Do Your Research. Whether you are writing fiction, medical journals, or cookbooks, you need to research your segment of the publishing industry. Find out who the publishers are, where they are, and how to contact them. It also helps to attend conferences or seminars in your industry, learn the hot topics and trends specific to the industry--understanding these will help you present your manuscript in a more appealing light by tying it to a popular trend.
Consider Using an Agent. In some publishing industries, obtaining a literary agent to represent you is a must. In others, it makes no difference. It is a literary agent's job to help you get published--that's how they make their money--they have the publisher connections, the advice, the know-how, the time.
Choose the Right Publisher for You. The list of publishers is extremely long. You need to understand what a publisher's specialties, strengths, and preferences are, so you can narrow down the publisher list and match up your material with their needs correctly. Be thorough. The same advice applies to literary agents.
Approach the Publisher Properly. Some publishers want a call first, some want an email, some want a query letter, some just want a portion of your manuscript in the mail. You must show respect and approach them how they want to be approached--take the publisher's advice; otherwise, they will not listen to you or view your material. Again, same advice applies to approaching an agent.
Learn to Shrug Off Rejection. On the average, 98-99% of submissions to both publishers and literary agents get rejected, especially if you've never been published before. That's just the way it is. It will help if you can learn from rejection. Be open-minded. You may need to revise and try again. If you have talent and perseverance, you will succeed in getting published.
Some excellent resources on general advice and help on publishing:
Publishers Weekly. The premier international publishing industry news magazine, it reaches every major publisher worldwide. It is the leading publication serving help and information to all segments involved in the creation, production, marketing and sale of the written word in book, audio, video and electronic formats. Also found on www.publishersweekly.com
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