Being an author is one of the most creative jobs in the world. It allows you to express your thoughts and opinions fluently while generating endless potential for income. However, the process of becoming the best storyteller can be long and overwhelming, especially when you come to the point of publishing one of your works.
The truth is when you are a first-time writer, getting your manuscript in front of the right person may seem like a daunting task. In order to be able to get the breakthrough you are looking for, it is important that you first complete a few steps to help increase your chances of getting your written piece published.
From editing your work to finding the right agent for you, here are five tips from publishing experts that will help you seal the deal and ensure your piece stands out in the crowd, landing you a successful publication.
Carefully edit your work
As a first-time writer, there is a great possibility that your work will have a few errors. Although one or two grammar mistakes won’t really hurt your career, a lot of them will certainly make you look unprofessional. Therefore, it is important that you carefully edit and proofread your work so a publisher or literary agent will have a chance at seeing your best.
If you feel like you need to advance your English language skills, you can look for online English teaching help and work with highly accredited professionals to teach you effective editing and proofreading strategies.
Do your journal research
Once you have edited your work, your next step is to do your research on journals. As you are doing this, make sure you carefully read all of their submission requirements.
Because different types of journals operate differently, it is important that you find out whether they accept simultaneous submissions. This means that if a publication doesn’t accept these types of submissions, then you can only send your work to that journal and wait until you hear back from them before sending it out to another publication.
If your work gets accepted, it is imperative that you immediately notify all the places you submitted your piece.
Find the right agent for you
Although not all writers need agents, the chances are you would benefit much more from hiring one to help you get your first written piece published. You want to find an agent who is well-connected and can provide a valuable bridge between you as a writer and publishers.
One of the best ways to find the right agent for you is by reading books that are similar to yours and checking the acknowledgements. Usually, writers express their gratitude to their editors in their works, so you should definitely search these names and send them a personal email pitching your piece.
Make sure your writing is relevant
No matter how good of a writer you may be, if you don’t have a story to tell, your chances of becoming successful on your first try at publication can be slim. Therefore, it is important that you ensure your writing is relevant so it can instantly grab your editor’s attention, as well as your readers later on.
The best way to achieve this is to identify your target audience and write on a subject that will interest them. There are plenty of genres you can choose from to write, although you should know that certain ones hold more appeal than others, so make sure you choose wisely.
Use social media to promote your writing
Since we live in a digitalized world, a great way to increase your chances of getting your written piece published is to use social media. There are plenty of social media platforms that facilitate connection and communication with readers as well as promote their writing which hopefully will open many opportunities for success.
For example, Facebook is best reserved for beginning or newer authors because it allows them to post information about their works, dictate whether their followers can post on their page and create groups to interact with their potential audience.
Final thoughts
Becoming a renowned writer is not an easy job. However, with a foolproof writing routine and the right strategy, you can increase your chances of getting your written piece published in no time. All you have to do is develop a publishing plan that works for you and will land you the success you are looking for.
If you need help along the way, follow the advice in this article from publishing experts to learn how you get your breakthrough and ensure your work rises above the competition.