2010: A Publishing Odyssey Part III

Publishing has changed more in the past year than it has in the previous 50. And the rate of change is getting faster and faster. The rules that seemed to be written in stone have begun to erode and are disappearing entirely.

Change is exciting and confusing at the same time. There are more opportunities to get published than ever before—if you know what you’re doing. Now, with all the changes, it’s harder than ever to know what to do. And, wrong decisions can be costly errors. But what if you had a mentor to guide you to the next step—no matter where you are right now?

Join publisher and author Shelley Lieber in the last of the three-part tele-series that will help you make informed decisions about how to:

• Choose between traditional publishing and self-publishing


• Avoid scams


• Choose the right POD publisher


• Publish your work as an ebook, audio book or print book


• Find print and digital markets for your work


• Build a community--and waiting audience--for your book


• Use social networking sites effectively (and not waste your time)


• Create a buzz with free publicity

Free Class*: 2010: A Publishing Odyssey, Part III

Date: Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Time: 2:00-3:00 pm ET (1pm CT, 12pm MT, 11am PT)

Call Details: (641) 715-3300, Access Code 171279#

*The class is free to attend, but long distance charges may apply.

The Gift of Thanksgiving

A Message from Shelley Lieber, The Wordy Woman and VIP Authors CEO & Founder

Happy Thanksgiving! I hope I'm among the first to wish you a happy, healthy holiday filled with joy.

Our family's Thanksgiving tradition is to go around the table and let each person express gratitude. We started years ago when my
children were young. Thanksgiving came on the heels of my son's and my niece's birthdays, with Chanukah sometimes only a week or two
away. Because they were so young, the children started to associate the holidays with gift getting, culminating with my daughter
blowing out the Chanukah candles, thinking it was a birthday party (she was only three).

So, we began our gratitude-giving tradition to help them understand that holidays are as much about giving as receiving. We continue it to this day, whether we are together or celebrating at tables spread across the country. We make sure we call each family member who is away so we can still connect and give thanks together.

A Special Thanksgiving Offer

I'd like to include you this year in my gratitude giving. I thank you for being a VIP Author Inner Circle member or taking a class or consulting with me this year. You are source of inspiration for me and I appreciate your participation in our work together.

And so, in gratitude, I'm making this special Thanksgiving offer. You can join VIP Authors or renew your membership at the special low rate of only $97, a savings of $30. If you are renewing, the additional year will be added at the end of your current membership, so every member can take advantage of this offer.

Please take a moment to review the VIP Author Inner Circle member
benefits and take advantage of this special Thanksgiving offer>>

My very best wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family,

Shelley Lieber, The Wordy Woman

P.S. Special thanks to Joe Gemignani for use of his beautiful photograph.

2010: A Publishing Odyssey Part II (New date)

Publishing has changed more in the past year than it has in the previous 50. And the rate of change is getting faster and faster. The rules that seemed to be written in stone have begun to erode and are disappearing entirely.

Change is exciting and confusing at the same time. There are more opportunities to get published than ever before—if you know what you’re doing. Now, with all the changes, it’s harder than ever to know what to do. And, wrong decisions can be costly errors. But what if you had a mentor to guide you to the next step—no matter where you are right now?

Join publisher and author Shelley Lieber in a free teleclass that will help you make informed decisions about how to:

• Choose between traditional publishing and self-publishing


• Avoid scams


• Choose the right POD publisher


• Publish your work as an ebook, audio book or print book


• Find print and digital markets for your work


• Build a waiting audience before your book comes out


• Use social networking sites effectively (and not waste your time)


• Create a buzz with free publicity

Free Class*: 2010: A Publishing Odyssey, Part II

Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Time: 2:00-3:00 pm ET (1pm CT, 12pm MT, 11am PT)

Call Details: (641) 715-3300, Access Code 171279#

*The class is free to attend, but long distance charges may apply.

2010: A Publishing Odyssey, Part II

Publishing has changed more in the past year than it has in the previous 50. And the rate of change is getting faster and faster. The rules that seemed to be written in stone have begun to erode and are disappearing entirely.

Change is exciting and confusing at the same time. There are more opportunities to get published than ever before—if you know what you’re doing. Now, with all the changes, it’s harder than ever to know what to do. And, wrong decisions can be costly errors. But what if you had a mentor to guide you to the next step—no matter where you are right now?

Join publisher and author Shelley Lieber in Part II of the free tele-series that will help you make informed decisions about how to:

• Choose between traditional publishing and self-publishing


• Avoid scams


• Choose the right POD publisher


• Publish your work as an ebook, audio book or print book


• Find print and digital markets for your work


• Build a waiting audience before your book comes out


• Use social networking sites effectively (and not waste your time)


• Create a buzz with free publicity

Free Class*: 2010: A Publishing Odyssey

Date: Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Time: 2:00-3:00 pm ET (1pm CT, 12pm MT, 11am PT)

Call Details: (641) 715-3300, Access Code 171279#

* The tele-class is free to attend, but long distance charges may apply.

2010: A Publishing Odyssey

Publishing has changed more in the past year than it has in the previous 50. And the rate of change is getting faster and faster. The rules that seemed to be written in stone have begun to erode and are disappearing entirely.

Change is exciting and confusing at the same time. There are more opportunities to get published than ever before—if you know what you’re doing. Now, with all the changes, it’s harder than ever to know what to do. And, wrong decisions can be costly errors. But what if you had a mentor to guide you to the next step—no matter where you are right now?

Join publisher and author Shelley Lieber in a free teleclass that will help you make informed decisions about how to:

• Choose between traditional publishing and self-publishing


• Avoid scams


• Choose the right POD publisher


• Publish your work as an ebook, audio book or print book


• Find print and digital markets for your work


• Build a waiting audience before your book comes out


• Use social networking sites effectively (and not waste your time)


• Create a buzz with free publicity

Free Class: 2010: A Publishing Odyssey

Date: Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Time: 2:00-3:00 pm ET (1pm CT, 12pm MT, 11am PT)

Call Details: (641) 715-3300, Access Code 171279#

From Class to Ca$h in 6 Weeks

Do you want to know how your writing can support you, instead of the other way around?

Many writers dream about writing for a living, but the reality is they are spending money on classes, software, workshops and conferences—and haven’t been earning a dime.

If you’re ready for your writing to be a business instead of an expensive hobby, then mark your calendar now for a free teleclass that identifies the strategies and tools you can use immediately to generate income.

Free Class*: “From Class to Ca$h in 6 Weeks”

Day: Wednesday, September 2, 2009,

Time: 2:00pm to 3:00pm ET (1pm CT, Noon MT, 11am PT)

Call-In Details: Dial 1 (641) 715-3300, Enter Access Code 171279# when prompted

*The presentation is free to attend, but long distance charges may apply.

All New! Q&A with Mark Coker: Everything You Always Wanted to Know about Publishing Digital Books (but were afraid to ask)

Ebooks are hot, hot, hot! It's the biggest buzz in publishing today because digital books represent the fastest (and perhaps only) growing segment of the industry. Publishers and authors aren't asking if they should publish an ebook anymore; they're asking when they should publish the ebook--with the print editiion, before  or after?

Are you still sitting on the sidelines, wondering how to get on top of this burgeoning publishing trend, which is quickly becoming the standard? Well, now's your chance to ask the expert.

On Wednesday, August 5, at 2:00pm ET, The Wordy Woman will interview guest Mark Coker, founder of Smashwords, during an all-new teleclass "Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Publishing Digital Books." Mark is a popular speaker on the topic, serving on panels and making presentations at industry events all over the country.

During this tele-class you will learn:

• What an ebook is, what it's not and why it's hot


• If ebooks will lead to the death--or rebirth--of print books


• What DRM is and if it's necessary


• What you need to know about formatting an ebook


• How to get your book on Kindle, iPhone and other ereaders


• How to price your ebook


• Plus, whatever else you want to ask!

Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to learn from Mark during a free class and ask your questions! Recently,120 participants at Mark's tele-class at IBPA University paid $49 - $69 to attend. This really is a one-time chance to learn from a digital publisher and ask questions live at no cost to you.*

Class: Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Digital Publishing

Date: Wednesday, August 5

Time: 2:00pm - 3:30pm Eastern (1pm Central, 12pm Mountain, 11am Pacific)

Sign up below to receive the teleclass call-in details:

*The presentation is free to attend, but long distance charges may apply. Please note that anyone may call in and listen, but the audio recording will only be available to VIP Author Inner Circle members. If you are not yet a member and would like a recording of this call, find out more about all the benefits of VIP Author Inner Circle membership here>>

Twitter Your Way to Publishing Success: Audio Download

Yesterday's tele-class "Twitter Your Way to Publishing Success" has gotten rave reviews from listeners! Here's some of the feedback we've received plus a link to download the audio, in case you missed the class.

"I thoroughly enjoyed your Twitter seminar today. I like the way you think – and the advice you give! :)" --Julia Schopick

"I have never listened to a call from anyone before. I just want to let you know that I found it to be interesting, informative and you now have a fan. I am an author getting ready to put my book on Smashwords. I got that information from your newsletter. Thank you and keep doing what you are doing. You are helping so many of us." --Ellen Brazer

"Great teleconference today! --J L Richardson MD

"I really loved and appreciated your Twitter tele-seminar today. Very helpful and timely also for me!!" --Bluedolphin Crow

Listen to the tele-class replay at (641) 715-3412, Access Code: 171279#, or use the link below to download the audio recording:
twitter_publishingsucess

Publishing Success 140 Characters at a Time

Relax. You don’t have to fill your novel or screenplay with 140 characters to be a successful author! In this instance, “characters” refer to single letters or numerals used in each entry, or “tweet,” on Twitter, the popular the micro-blogging site. So what does tweeting messages only 140 characters long have to do with publishing success?

“Everything,” says Shelley Lieber, The Wordy Woman, who was recently named by Mashable.com as one of “70+ Authors to Follow on Twitter,” along with such best-selling authors as Deepak Chopra, Tony Robbins, Tim Ferris, Suze Orman, Mariel Hemingway and Arianna Huffington.

The Wordy Woman will share her Twitter tips and strategies that she used to gain recognition as one of the top authors in her market in ONLY SIX MONTHS in a free tele-class. This is a don’t-miss event for every writer who wants to get the word out about his or her book!

Free Call*: Twitter Your Way to Publishing Success
When: Wednesday, June 3, 2pm Eastern
(1pm Central, 12pm Mountain, 11am Pacific)
Call-in Details: (641) 715-3300, Access Code 171279#

*The tele-class is free to attend, but long distance charges may apply.

Wordy Woman is on Mashable list of 70+ Authors to Follow on Twitter

Whoohoo! I made the list and what good company I'm in! Check out the whole list.

Getting Published: 5 Things You Can Do Right Now

Use the phrase "self-publishing" or "independent author" and most people think of books. I believe, however, the correct definition of "self-publishing" is someone who publishes his or her own work in any format. 

Publishing yourself is not limited to print books. The definition extends to all mediums: print, digital, video and audio. (Did you know the trendy terms today are: pbook, ebook, abook and vook?) 

 

Here are 5 ways you can start to get your message out to your audience today, if you wish. 

 

1. Blog: The fastest, cheapest way to get online with a blog is to go to Blogger.com or Wordpress.com, sign up for an account, pick a template and start blogging. Yes, it's that easy. Now, cheap and easy are not the best way to go. Self-hosting a blog with your own domain name (rather than yourname.blogspot.com, for example) is preferred, but costs more and takes longer. The good news is that you can always transfer your Blogger or Wordpress blog later when you have the time and money to set it up in your own name.

2. Podcasts: Do you know how many people are listening to their favorite audio programs and books on iPods? Millions.  Record your blog posts, articles and audio programs and publish as podcasts in iTunes App Store. I am not a techie, so I won't begin to try to explain the process, but publishing your podcasts on iTunes is fairly simple, once you get your feed set up. Have someone help you if necessary. Get Apple's instructions on how to do here.

 

3. Digital Books: This is so easy, it's ridiculous not to do it. Do you have a completed manuscript? It could be an article, booklet or full-length book. If so, then you are ready to go digital. Simply creating a PDF from your Word document in the Print function will give you a file you can upload to Payloadz.com and start selling. Or, you can upload your Word document at Smashwords.com and they convert your manuscript to the format for downloading as an ebook to computer, iPhone, Kindle, Sony eReader and a host of other devices. You set your own price and keep most of the profit. Another place to publish digital and audio files is YouPublish.com. Be sure to read the terms of agreement and how you will be paid before you join any service.

 

4. Videos: Did you know YouTube.com is the No. 1 search engine for Generation Y? Yes, they go there before Google when searching for information. You do not need to be Steven Spielberg to shoot a video to upload to YouTube. Most digital cameras have video functions on them and if you don't have one, get a FlipCamera for about $129. You can plug the Flip right into your computer and upload your video. Have someone record you delivering your message (or set the camera up on a tripod and do it yourself). Read from your book, talk about your subject, interview someone else, or anything else you can think of.

 

5. Social Networking: Join any social networking group and you can set up a profile page with your photo, book information, book cover, event photos, and more.The additional benefit to joining and participating in these groups is that you can connect with other people who are interested in your topic, so you can build your audience from Day One. Many of the sites also offer you blog pages, ability to upload video, fan pages and more. The "Big Three" are Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn, but there are many more smaller groups that are book industry-specific such as GoodReads,LibraryThing and BookMarketing Network. Costs you nothing and is lots of fun, too! Look me up on all those sites and add me as your friend.

 

So no more excuses about not getting published. Do it today. 

In others' words...(Great quotes from writers)

"What is written without effort is in generally read without pleasure." --Samuel Johnson

"I often have to write a hundred pages or more before there's a paragraph that's alive." --Philip Roth

"If my doctor told me I had only six minutes to live, I wouldn't brood. I'd type a little faster." --Isaac Asimov

"Writing is the only thing that, when I do it, I don't feel I should be doing something else." --Gloria Steinem

"It is worth mentioning, for future reference, that the creative power which bubbles so pleasantly in beginning a new book quiets down after a time, and one goes on more steadily. Doubts creep in. Then one becomes resigned. Determination not to give in, and the sense of an impending shape keep one at it more than anything." --Virginia Woolf

"But words are things, and a small drop of ink,

Falling, like dew, upon a thought, produces

That which makes thousands, perhaps millions, think. "

--Lord Byron

"If you read good books, when you write, good books will come out of you." --Natalie Goldberg

"I think I write much better if I'm flowing. At first it's a bit jagged, awkward, but then there's a point where there's a click and you suddenly become quite fluent. I don't write well when I'm sitting there sweating about every single phrase." --Doris Lessing

"Sometimes I believe these books are already written and my job is simply to allow them to come through me. My job is to get out of my own way so that I can let the process take care of me." --Sue Grafton

"I am a writer who came of a sheltered life. A sheltered life can be a daring life as well. For all serious daring starts from within." --Eudora Welty

"The talent for writing is largely the talent for living, and it is utterly independent of knowledge." --Willa Cather

"What will be best in your writing is what you really do not know now. If you knew it all it would not be creation but dictation." --Gertrude Stein

"It's one thing to have an idea, but it's quite another to trust your idea and follow where it leads. Following your fascinations means taking risks and venturing out from the safe harbor to the open seas." --Gail McMeekin

"What an author likes to write most is his signature on the back of a check." --Brendan Francis

I hope you've enjoyed the words of wisdom from the pens of authors themselves. These are just some of my favorites from the huge collection I've amassed over the years. Please take a moment to post your comments and some of your favorite writer quotes. Also, if you have a print copy of 4Ps to Publishing to Success,

you can read some of my all-time favorites at the section and chapter openers.

Don't Get Ripped Off: How to Make Informed Self-Publishing Decisions

Are you thinking about self-publishing? Find out what you need to know and the questions you should be asking when working with Print on Demand (POD) publishers to avoid rip offs and scams.

Don't miss this informative free tele-class when VIP Authors founder and publishing consultant Shelley Lieber reveals:

• How to pick a POD publisher


• Two questions POD publishers don't want you to ask, and why you MUST know this information

This class can help you save hours of time and thousands of dollars. Here's how to get on the call:

Free Class*: ”Don't Get Ripped Off: How to Make Informed Decisions when Self-Publishing

When: Wednesday, May 6, 2008 at 2 pm ET (1pm CT, 12pm MT, 11am PT)

Call Info: Dial (641) 715-3300. Enter Access Code: 171279#

* The class is free to attend, but long distance charges may apply.

5 Steps You Can Take to Publish Now

Yesterday's teleclass "Books are NOT Dead! 5 Steps You Can Take to Publish Now" ROCKED! Here is just some of the feedback I've gotten already:

"As always, it's a pleasure listening in on your talks about publishing and the writing business." --Joey Naudic

"Really enjoyed the conference call. It was informative, well organized and filled with useful insights."--Jenna Rosen

"I thought the call today was amazing! I'm was extremely inspired and motivated with all the information you shared. It is a strong confirmation that I'm doing the right things at the right time. I'm still in awe!!! I'm trying to calm down inside! This is an exciting time!" --Yolanda Berry

"I appreciated your time today and am seriously considering putting some audio (and maybe even video) on the blog because of what you mentioned. Thanks again!" --Alicia Sample

If you were unable to make yesterday's tele-class about what you can do right now to publish in today's market, here is the audio recording.

5 Steps You Can Take Right Now to Publish

You can also hear the replay by dialing (641) 715-3412, Access Code 171279#.

4Ps 2009: The Indie Authors 4-Step Guide to Publishing Success

Now is the best time in history of publishing to be an author because everything is changing. “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” Get it? There are more opportunities to get published than ever before–if you know what you’re doing. But with all the changes, it’s harder than ever to know what to do.

From where you’re standing, you may not be able to see how you can achieve publishing success. It may seem very far off in a distant future, or perhaps down a road with too many obstacles. It’s not your fault. Today’s publishing industry has been turned upside down and you need a roadmap to navigate all the new twists and turns on the road to publishing success.

4Ps to Publishing Success (print version) was published exactly one year ago. Yet already many new trends in publishing have emerged to change the landscape of the industry and what authors must do in order to succeed. So I'm offering a tele-class to update the information in the book with new strategies to match the new mindsets.

4Ps 2009: The Indie Author’s 4-Step Guide to Publishing Success is your roadmap through the maze of confusion and misinformation surrounding self-publishing and Print on Demand (POD) publishing. This 4-week tele-course will teach you the basic principles necessary for good publishing, inform you with up-to-date information about the changing face of today’s publishing market, and arm you with the knowledge you need to avoid losing money on scams and rip-offs. Read more>>>

Do you know how much it costs to publish a book?

Whatever the image of publishing success looks like to you, it probably doesn't include shelling out thousands of dollars in expenses to get there. Yet, publishing is a business and involves costs. Many authors are unprepared to meet the expenses and become discouraged and even sidetracked when they learn what they need. Or worse, they spend far more than necessary learning the lessons the hard way. Unpleasant surprises can be avoided by having upfront knowledge about the "behind the scenes" services that contribute to publishing success.

The indie author assumes the entire cost, yet even when a publishing house is paying for book production and distribution, an author has to invest in promotion. Many also choose to get  editorial help before submitting their work.

So, what are some of the "costs of doing business" that an author should put in the budget? 

Here's a laundry list of items, some are typical, some are less well known. Not everything will be applicable to your project, but at least you'll be better prepared to make informed decisions. (The  rock-bottom starting price of the cost range is in parens after each item.)

Editorial: Can include help with content editing, manuscript development, copy editing and proofreading. ($300+)

Design: Nothing gives a self-published book away faster than bad cover and interior design. Not all professional books are design winners, either. So it is helpful to know about the elements of conventional layout, including proper organization of content on the title page, copyright page, table of contents, headers and footers, chapter openers. captions, pagination and more. Get familiar with the basics of book design and hire professional help if you're going it alone. ($500+)

Marketing Materials: Good elements of design and copywriting apply to everything related to the book: postcards, bookmarks, business cards. Digital printing make these materials a small, but effective investment. ($100+)

Internet Presence: A blog and/or website is no longer an "option." The earlier an author can establish a following, the better. Once again, good editorial and design help authors present and deliver their messages effectively. In addition, services such as search engine optimization are investments that can pay for themselves and more. ($250+) 

Newsletter: A newsletter is an effective tool for communicating with your audience. Companies that provide list management and design templates for your messages is another small, but necessary investment. ($15+/month)

Shopping Cart: Will you be selling your book on your website? Services such as consulting or seminars? Shopping carts are another expense worth the money. Some systems integrate the cart with list management, newsletter broadcasting, autoresponders as well as digital product delivery. ($30+/month)

Teleconference and Webinar services: These service providers give you the ability to conduct "live" seminars via the phone or computer. Talk to hundreds of people at time from the comfort of your home, any day or time you want. ($0 for limited services; $30+/month for advanced services)

Virtual Assistants: You're probably looking at this list and thinking, "I don't have time for all that." Virtual assistants have the time and training to handle many administrative tasks that free you to do what you do best. ($200+/month)

Promotion: Depending on your time, training and inclination, some of this can be done on your own and with a virtual assistant.  Hiring a publicist is another option. (Costs vary widely, depending on service and whether it's a one-time or ongoing service.)

This is far from a complete list, but it should give you a better idea of what goes into producing a successful book. It takes more than writing a good book; that's simply the first step. The more you know, the better your chances will be for success--that's true in any business. 

What the actual cost of your project will be depends on many factors. The starting range prices given here are very low, and your costs may be quite a bit higher. 

Better to enter this business with your eyes wide open and know how to get quality results than bumble your way through, wasting time, money and possibly sabotaging your own efforts. 

Remember: Writing is a passion. Publishing is a business. Successful (VIP) authors know the difference. Continue your publishing education via books; subscriptions to writers' newsletters and magazines; and attend classes, workshops and seminars.

Want to be part of membership group for authors who are learning how to navigate today's ever-changing publishing industry? For about $10/month or the cost of two grande lattes, you can learn how save thousands of dollars typically spent by uneducated authors. Find out more about VIP Authors Inner Circle>>>

Elizabeth Gilbert on Creative Genius

The Truth About Writers' Block

"What are some of the obstacles you've faced and overcome?" That's the question I like to ask when I interview people who are leaders in their communities, companies or organizations. Although the individual replies vary, the majority of the responses reveal that each person has managed to transform some type of adversity into opportunity.

What I have observed in my own 30-year career is that the opposite is true as well. Unsuccessful people not only let obstacles stop or delay their progress, they actively put barriers in their paths, preventing them from reaching their goals. We all are guilty of this to some degree. After all, it is easier to say we don't have time to write because we work and have children, homes and mates to look after than it is to get up an hour earlier, go to bed an hour later, or work through lunch hour at the office.

It seems to me that each time I make a concerted effort to rein in my concentration and focus on the completion of a goal, the Universe sends something to tempt me away. Just when I decide to spend the next two weeks finishing the final edit on my book, something "urgent "or "important "comes up, and gives me reason to put my personal work on the back burner--again.

Without exception, I have regretted my decision each time I placed my goals on hold "just until this next project is finished." And, each time I placed myself ahead of the distraction, and said "no" to stepping off track, I have been rewarded with an inner sense of satisfaction and accomplishment that comes with following my heart rather than my head (or pocketbook).The decision to pursue my true calling has also led to far greater riches in the long run than any project ever pays in the present.

Knowing what is the right thing to do and actually doing it are two different things. Most of us need some support to help us hold steadfast to our goals. Being part of two writers groups provided the motivation and support I needed to finish my novel. If I didn't have that commitment to produce a chapter a month, I'd probably never have finished my novel at all. Today I have two mastermind groups that keep me accountable to my commitments and focused on my goals.

If you've ever felt the desire to pursue your writing dream, don't let obstacles stop you and, above all, don't construct stumbling blocks to your success. First, start visualizing your book signing or whatever symbolizes the accomplishment of your success as a writer. Then set measurable, attainable goals and, finally, find a support system to keep you going when you're tempted to get off track.

Do you need some guidance to help you through the publishing process as well as support to keep you focused on the goal? The Wordy Woman offers three levels of support to writers. See which one is right for you>>>

Can you copyright a title?

Here's a question that is asked in almost every seminar or workshop I teach:

Q: I have a book title I want to preserve but the book is a good ways from being ready. Is there a way to copyright a title long before the book is published? --James

A: You cannot copyright a title (or an idea) at all. You can only copyright  a work. Even if you copyright a book or article with a given title, that does not prevent someone from using that title for another work, even on the same topic. Of course, none of your written material in an article or book can be used.

Once your book is published, you can (and should) register the the title with Books in Print, but again, that does not prevent someone else from using the same title, although it may discourage use.

Focus on writing your book and don't worry about "saving" the title. No one else can write your book, only you!

Are you ready to send a query letter?

Sending your work out for review by agents and editors is a big and important step in the publishing process. Many times, what you send is the only basis for the big decision that has to be made. In most cases, the person on the other end doesn't know you and can only judge your work by the contents of the package.  So, how do you make a good first impression? Review this handy checklist before you send out your work.

• Believe in your work. Be able to sum it up succinctly and passionately. If you're not enthusiastic and confident about your project, you're not ready to submit.


• Prepare your manuscript professionally. That includes using good paper, printer and standard formatting. Then package it per submission guidelines. Send only what is requested.


• Perfect your pitch/query letter.
  
  
  
  • Don't try to sum up whole book in the letter. For fiction, describe your character, setting and obstacle. For nonfiction, present the problem and how your book offers a solution or new information.
  
  
  • Why you are uniquely qualified to write this book? What is your training, education and related experience?
  
  
  • Who is your audience? (Tip: Anyone who can fog a mirror is not the right answer.) Be as specific as possible.
  
  
  • Why have you selected this agent or editor? Do not send out submissions en masse with the same letter to everyone.
  
  
  
  


• Understand what an agent does and does not do. Understand publishing is a business, and the agent makes a business, not a personal, decision.


• Know the industry lingo: platform, competing books, audience/climate.

Demonstrate that you are knowledgeable about the publishing process. Contacting agents is more than writing a letter. You are expected to know how to format your letter and all the parts of the submission package.

Remember, the agent is not responsible for coaching you in the basics of the industry. The job of the agent is to sell your manuscript to a publisher and then negotiate the best possible rights and deal for you. If you can make the agent's job easier by sending the material he or she needs to get that job done, you will increase your chances of acceptance.

You'll find detailed instructions on how to write a query letter and prepare a submission package in 4Ps to Publishing Success: Get Your Manuscript Off Your Desk & Into Print. Available as a workbook or ebook, 4Ps to Publishing Success is a complete step-by-step guide to getting published. Or, you can purchase only the information you need in Chapter 7 of 4Ps Buy the Chapter.  Get a full description of all the 4Ps Products here>>>

Will your manuscript be accepted?

    

I often receive requests for feedback on a book idea or completed manuscript.  Authors will typically send their outline or chapter sample and ask me one of the two questions below:

Q: "What do you think about my book [idea]?"

A:  What I think--or what any agent or editor will think--about your idea will depend on how you present your material. When reviewing fiction or nonfiction, we're open to all good ideas that will entertain, bring new information to the market, or fill a documented need in the marketplace.

The truth is that you have far more control over whether or not you get published than you think. Use these guidelines to evaluate your manuscript before sending it out or attempting to self-publish.

Be able to document why your book will sell. Who will read it and why? And, please, supply more than your opinion and that of your family and friends. Mention articles in major print publications and topics of popular movies and books that relate to your book subject. Show us surveys that were done by impartial, reliable organizations (Gallop Polls, U.S. Census, etc). Document current trends that indicate an audience for your topic.

Explain why you are the right person to write this book. Are you an expert? Do you have personal experience with the subject? Are you already addressing your audience via writing, speaking or practice? If you can provide persuasive copy about yourself and your idea, almost any agent or editor in your genre will be happy to consider your manuscript for publication--which brings me to Q#2.

Q: I've submitted this manuscript to agents and publishers and I keep getting rejected. What's wrong with it?"

A: There's a host of possible answers to this question that have nothing to do with the quality of the manuscript. Here's a few reasons why you may be receiving rejection letters:

• You spelled the agent or editor's name wrong.


• You sent it to an inappropriate recipient (e.g., your cookbook to a fiction agent).


• You sent your entire 800-page, two-book manuscript, spiral bound, without first sending a query requesting permission to follow up with a book proposal or novel synopsis. (Never staple or bind your manuscript, even if it has been requested.)


• You didn't follow submission guidelines.


• You mentioned that Oprah will love your book.


• You listed all your relatives and friends or other nonprofessional readers who love your work.


• Your letter contained spelling and grammatical errors.


• You referenced all your previous rejections and lack of writing experience.


• You sent a three-page letter explaining your reason for writing the book and a detailed description of the contents.

Most likely, however, the reason your manuscript was rejected was because

• You didn't include the information they are looking for as specified in the answer to Q#1.

Remember when I said you have more control over getting your work being published than you think? You can dramatically increase the odds of getting a positive response instead of a rejection letter just by improving how you present yourself and your work. What good is an excellent manuscript if no one reads it?

Please consider these responses even if you are self-publishing. Although you may not need the approval of an agent or editor, you do have to prepare your work in a professional manner if you expect to sell the book or garner any respect once you've published it. You want to ask yourself the same questions an agent or editor would ask.

The best advice I can give you is to become educated about the publishing industry. Learn about the process; become familiar with expected standards. Read industry publications online and offline, take classes and attend workshops and conferences. If you want to cut light years off your learning curve, seek professional help. A good editor or consultant is well worth the investment if you are serious about your work. As a cost-effective alternative to private coaching, join VIP Authors Inner Circle for ongoing mentoring and  get 4Ps to Publishing Success as part of your program. 

I'd like to support your efforts in reaching your goal. You can email your questions to me or comment on one of the blogs. I'll answer as many as I can in next Wednesday's free teleseminar: "What's the best way to get published? Your questions answered."

Will 2009 be your year to see your name in print? It's up to you.

Use Your Journal to Warm Up for Writing

For many writers, just getting started is a challenge. That's usually because they're  expecting the words to flow out  in perfect order. Or  worse, they're waiting to "be inspired." Ha.

You wouldn't jump into physical exercise without warming up. Why expect your brain to be any more prepared to perform well on demand than your muscles?

Honor yourself and your muse with respect for the craft. Here's some tips to get you in the writing flow:

 1. Buy a journal that appeals to your senses. Not just a notebook or tablet. Use a hardcover, bound book. Your thoughts are important and deserve to be recorded in a volume worthy of your words. Spiral-bound notebooks or pads don't suggest permanence or quality.

2. Purchase a pen that you use only to write in this journal. Consider the color of the ink, the thickness/thinness of the writing tip and how it feels in your hand. Write at least one page every day at the same time. Experiment until you find the time of day that feels best to you. You can write more, if you feel it; but do not write less than one page per day.

3. If the page per day doesn't feel right to you, buy a timer. Start with 5 minutes per day. Gradually increase to 15 minutes or more. Write without editing or rereading.

4. Good sources of prompts:

Journalution: Journaling to Awaken Your Inner Voice, Heal Your Life and Manifest Your Dreams by Sandy Grason 

The Pocket Muse: Ideas & Inspirations for Writing by Monica Wood

5. Select a spot or area for your writing time. Make it comfortable. Make sure you have good light. Decorate the area with "comfort" items: flowers, pretty knickknacks, photos, etc. Play music softly if it doesn't disturb you. Light a scented a candle; burn incense. Once you establish a ritual, do it the same way each day.

Once you establish this pattern for writing in your journal, try a similar pattern for sitting at the computer if that's your chosen method for writing. It will be easier to establish a set writing time and pattern for your creative work once you make journaling a habit. You'll also find that journaling unleashes a flow of material and sparks your imagination in ways you never thought possible.

Portions of this article are reprinted from 4Ps to Publishing Success: Get Your Manuscript Off Your Desk & Into Print by Shelley Lieber.  If you liked today's article, you'll LOVE the book! A complete step-by-step guide to getting published. Find out if you need 4Ps to Publishing Success>>> 

 Photo ©Gemignani. See more photos by Joe Gemignani.

How to respond to a journalist's request for sources

It’s very exciting and a good opportunity to reply to a journalist’s query or request for expert sources. However, there are conventional rules of procedure to follow, or you risk being labeled a pest rather than a valuable resource! Here’s how to submit your expertise, book or product to a media request. (These rules apply to “blind” pitching, too.)

1. Only respond or pitch if you are an appropriate match for the topic. Don’t try to stretch the truth or present yourself to be something you’re not or promise what you can’t deliver.


2. Give the request serious thought before dashing out your information. Read the request carefully. What is the angle of the story? Who is the audience? Then present your material in a manner that is consistent with the needs of the story and the audience.


3. Open with an introduction about why you are writing (I’m writing in response to… or to suggest…). Indicate why you are an expert, but keep to a sentence. “As a licensed physical therapist with Such and Such Medical Group, ….”


4. Present your information and specify how it is relevant to the subject of the article or show. Make your presentation to the journalist very clear; don’t assume that he or she will connect the dots between what you are sending and what they need. If this is a blind pitch, then it’s even more important to establish how your information can benefit or be of interest to the audience.


5. Put your short bio at the end, with your contact information. If you have a book, include “[your name], author of…” Always end with “I’d be happy to provide additional for this or any other article (show, etc.) that you are preparing about (the subject). Please let me know how else I can help you.”


6. Keep it short. This is not the time to submit your media kit, photo or any self-serving attachments. The purpose of your response is to feed enough information to the journalist to prompt a call or email for more information. If you are contacted, remember that the goal is to serve the press, not to get free publicity. If you help the journalist, your name or product may be cited in the newspaper, magazine or media broadcast. Although that’s the ultimate payoff for you, your purpose in replying to requests or sending pitches is to help the journalist do his or her job, which is serving the needs of the audience.


7. Be mindful of deadlines.

Be realistic. You may think you’re the perfect source or match for the journalist’s needs, but you won’t get a call every time you submit. However, if you establish a pattern of consistent quality and reliability (they call you for a quote when their deadline is in 15 minutes), then you’ll develop a valuable relationship that will pay off for you many times over.

 

Creativity Boosters

We've all felt like we've been up against a brick wall at one time or another with our writing. Here are some creativity-boosting tips for busting through writer's block.

1. Free write. Set a timer for ten minutes and just write. If you're writing in a journal, you may want to have a prompt or ask yourself a question. Write the prompt or question at the top of the page and go. If you're working on your book or an assignment, review your notes or what you last wrote and then write for ten minutes. Start each writing session this way. Getting started is the hardest part of the writing process for most people. Allowing yourself the freedom of free writing, without censure, lets you begin.

2. Have several projects. In the event that your novel's characters are being totally uncooperative, switch to another writing project. This is a good time to think about headlines for a press release or to work on your query letter or proposal. Or perhaps you have an article you're working on or an idea for an article you want to pitch to an editor. A caveat: Stick to writing projects and stay off the Internet. If you start to answer email, you'll be pulled away from writing. Even worse is to work on "research" via the Internet. An hour will pass and you'll have not written a word!

3. Read your journal or take out the notebook you keep with the notes you've jotted down for stories. If you don't keep a notebook, begin immediately! Write down any thoughts about characters, scraps of overheard conversation, or events that stimulate an article idea. Keep this notebook with you at all times. And, always, always have a pen. Part of developing the creative habit is to be prepared. How many good ideas have you lost because you didn't write them down?

4. Take a break. If the words are truly stuck, try something else entirely. Take a walk, sew, paint, cook, read or do some activity you enjoy. Be sure to return to the page, though, within a short period of time.

Portions of this article are reprinted from 4Ps to Publishing Success: Get Your Manuscript Off Your Desk & Into Print by Shelley Lieber. If you liked the article, you'll LOVE the book! A complete step-by-step guide to getting published. Find out if you need 4Ps to Publishing Success>>>

VIP Author Talks 2009 Kickoffs with Marlene Chism: “Success is a Given: Reading the Signs While Re-Inventing Your Life”

Change is probably going to be the key word of the year 2009--and possibly the next four years. Whether you are facing change by choice or by chance, you can use new circumstances as a catalyst for growth--or better, a book.

 

VIP Author Talks kicks off the 2009 tele-series on Wednesday, January 21 at 8:00pm ET with someone who knows how to make change work for you in your life: Marlene Chism, author of Success is a Given: Reading the Signs While Re-Inventing Your Life (www.successisagiven.com).

Having successfully transitioned from factory worker to speaker, coach and author. Marlene will share the insights, tips and resources she used to fashion her circumstances into a successful career. Based on what you hear in this presentation, you can learn how to:

• Choose the topic and title for your book


• Organize your material


• Use your book as a tool to build and expand your business 


• Use writing, speaking and coaching to build an audience (readers)

Bonus Content!

Marlene will also

• Reveal what she would do differently so you can learn from her hindsight (mistakes)


• Answer questions from the audience

This is one conversation you don't want to miss. Mark your calendar now for this free event*. Here's how to get on the call:

What: VIP Author Talks with Guest Marlene Chism

When: Wednesday, January 21, 2009, 8:00pm to 9:00pm Eastern (7:00pm Central, 6:00pm Mountain, 5:00pm Pacific)

Call-In Details: To get on the call, please dial 1 (218) 339-4600, and enter Access Code 992777# when prompted.

*The presentation will last one hour and is free to attend, but long distances may apply. Please note that anyone may call in and listen, but the audio recording will only be available to VIP Author Inner Circle members. If you are not yet a member and would like a recording of this call, find out more about all the benefits of VIP Author Inner Circle membership here>>>

Are you SMART?

The only way to make continual progress with your writing is to set goals. There's no job description for writer and no standard measurement for advancement. So, it's up to you to establish a framework that defines your goals and strategies for success.

It's a good idea to set a mixture of short- and long-term goals. Ask yourself where you want to be in the next three months, six months, one year, two years, five years and ten years. Dream big dreams and don't let "reason" restrict your vision for yourself.

Use the well-known acronym, SMART, to help you create your goals. SMART stands for:

Specific: Be precise. Instead of "I will write more often," say, "I will write every morning."?

Measurable: Write quantitative, rather than qualitative, goals. Make sure you can measure progress, or how will you know when you've attained your goal??Action-Oriented: Choose goals you can control. Rather than "I will be published in a national magazine by June of this year," write "I will send a query letter each week to possible markets until I am published in a national magazine."?

Risk/Realistic: Set goals that will make you stretch your capabilities, but don't set yourself up for failure. If you have a full-time job or small children at home, writing a novel in one month is an unlikely feat.?

Timed: Deadlines help you pace yourself to complete your goals within a specific period of time. The publishing world rises and falls on making deadlines, so push yourself to hold firm to your commitment. ? ?

Other Tips

1. Put your goals in writing.


2. Post your goals where you can see them or make it a point to read them at least three times a day: when you awake in the morning, mid-day and before you go to sleep.


3. Share your goals with a supportive friend or relative. Your writers' group may be your support group. The act of sharing your intentions releases them to the Universe and also will help keep you accountable--you will want to perform to expectations.


4. Celebrate your successes! When you can cross off a goal or make a check mark on your list, buy yourself a new journal, pen or book. See a movie or have lunch with a friend. Schedule a manicure or massage.


5. Get back to work after your celebration. Keep going.


6. Be flexible and adjust your goals when necessary. New opportunities always arise and you may find yourself attracted to magazine writing when you thought you wanted to write screenplays. Be open to possibilities that are as yet unseen.


7. Never beat yourself up or consider yourself a failure for not completing a goal in a specified time. Review your setbacks and revise your strategy. Never, never, never give up!

Portions of this article are reprinted from 4Ps to Publishing Success: Get Your Manuscript Off Your Desk & Into Print by Shelley Lieber.  Find out if you need 4Ps to Publishing Success>>>

The Ultimate Resolution that Changes Everything

Are you tired of making lists: things to do, goals to make, promises to keep...? I am. It seems it never ends and there's always another list to make. So, I decided to take a good, honest look at why I haven't lost the weight, made the money or gone on the trip.

This is what I discovered. I've accomplished far more than I had thought, but there are still important milestones I've yet to reach. So, what is the difference between what I have accomplished and what I have not?

At first I thought is was a matter of belief. But I truly do know I can lose five pounds, make more money and go on a vacation, because I've done that all before. So I looked again at my list of what I've done and what I haven't done--and something jumped out at me with serious "aha" velocity.

The single distinguishing factor between my lists was that on one I had let go of my old ideas about how to do something and tried something new. Where I was stuck in the mud, I was holding on to how I've always done it. So, it was no surprise that what hadn't worked in the past still did not.

And so, I have made an Ultimate Resolution that I believe will change my life. I am open and receptive to all possibilities. That means never saying (or thinking) I can't do that, I'm too old for that, I don't have enough money for  that...and so on. It means never dismissing any idea just because it challenges my comfort zone.

In the past year, just changing my attitude about social networking (that it's only for kids) has revolutionized my business. And once I decided that I would just play around with it, suddenly it wasn't so hard to navigate the websites. The know-how seemed to come to me in all sorts of ways: tips online, people who knew how to do it, and my relaxed attitude about it all seemed to make the instructions easier to follow.

Several business strategies I wanted to employ but hadn't because of the costs become possible when I decided that I'd find a way to do it without spending the money. Suddenly people who could provide what I needed showed up and wanted to partner with me for an exchange of services. 

Do you see how simply opening your mind to all possibilities can change your whole world? No big visible big effort needed, just an ongoing gentle reminder to yourself not to reject anything or anyone without first looking with open eyes and open mind.

How many opportunities have you dismissed just because it didn't fit your current view of reality? The only reality is that things change, so why not go with the flow instead of resisting?

Say it out loud. "I am open and receptive to all possibilities." 

Doesn't that feel good? Much better than "I can't," which makes you feel yucky. And it applies to everything on your to-do list and goals sheet. 

Join me this year in a creative thinking exercise. What's really holding you back from achieving what you want? The circumstance, or how you think about the circumstance? Let's all employ the Ultimate Resolution--I am open and receptive to all possibilities--and meet back in a year to tell our stories.

Are you in? Write your comments below. Do it now!