8 Quick Tips that Will Get You Closer to ‘Published’

Tired of dreaming about being a successful author while waking up feeling as if you’re running in place?

In five decades of writing, I’ve written and published more than 185 books, sold more than 70 million copies, and have seen 21 of my titles hit The New York Times bestseller list.

I don’t say that to brag but to assure you I’ve learned a lot that can boost your chances for success. Here are a few steps you can start taking today that will help you quit dreaming and start selling what you write:

Have something to say

Narrow your book’s message to one sentence. As you write—then especially as you edit and rewrite—you’ll find that will keep you on point.

Know your reader

When I sit at the keyboard, I keep one reader in mind. Not a room full of people, but one person. I write to an individual, “you,” not “some of you,” or “those of you,” or “many of you.” “You.”

Say it simply

I never try to impress with my choice of words. Writers who show off their vocabularies are like girls using makeup for the first time. Less is more. Unless you’re a gifted literary stylist—and believe me, there aren’t many, let the power of your story speak for itself.

Hone your skills

I don’t say this just because I train writers. Fifty years since earning my first dollar for writing, I’m still trying to perfect my craft every day. I belong to writers groups, subscribe to magazines for writers, and read every book I can find about the profession.

Polish your prose

Every writer needs an editor. At writers workshops I often show beginners how the first page of their novel can be condensed by as much as two-thirds. The truth is, I’m just as brutal with my own first drafts. Dare to cut, replace, and polish until every word counts.

Publish the right way

It’s never been easier to publish a book. But beware. If you must resort to self- or indie publishing, you’ll find that many companies prey on would-be authors, promising success in exchange for expensive packages. Before you invest, investigate. Know what you’re buying and how a company defines its promises, particularly in terms of quality editing, marketing, distribution, and sales.

Prepare to take an active role in selling your book

If you take the initiative to self-publish, your book’s sales and marketing fall to you as well. Here’s a link to a great article on this topic. Don’t wait until your copies are delivered to design your marketing plan.

Start small

You no longer have to order hundreds of copies at a time to get copies of your book at an economical price. Thanks to print-on-demand technology, you can now order just a handful of books, then order more as you need them. Paying less for inventory means you can invest your upfront dollars in editing and design, as well as in help with marketing.

This can be a great time to self-publish your first book—if you commit to doing it right.

Which of the above steps is next on your to-do list? Tell me in the comments section.

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