Tips for Finding a Publisher
Working Closely With a Small Publishing House Can Pay Big Dividends
Aug 2, 2009
Most authors quickly learn that writing a book is the easy part of the whole publication process. Getting the book into print is an entirely different challenge, particularly if one does not want to self-publish or use the services of a vanity or subsidy press.
There are authors who, through sheer determination and persistence, despite hundreds of rejections, manage to find a publisher. They stand as a tremendous source of inspiration for aspiring authors. There are others who manage to attract the attention of an “agent” who may, occasionally, be of help in locating a publisher. But the sad fact is, many talented, deserving writers are rejected out of hand, while others, whose work pales in comparison, find the golden ring, often simply because they know someone, or are a celebrity, politician, etc.
So, what can an author do to help himself/herself find a bona fide publisher, i.e., someone who is not a subsidy or vanity publisher?
Follow Submission Guidelines Exactly
It will take some scouring, but there are a number of small, independent presses who do not require an agented submission. Not all of these folks are listed in Writer’s Market either. When one locates such a publisher, it is imperative that one take the time to become thoroughly familiar with the publisher’s submission process. Read carefully, and read everything. Notice especially what the publisher’s preferences are.
Do not email the publisher if a written query via postal service is requested. The main reason a publisher will request this is it gives the publisher an opportunity to see if the author can even write. Sending an email may be quicker, but often emails don’t get delivered in the same format as they’re sent, particularly if one is using satellite or dial-up. So, send a formal query letter along with a marketing plan. If the publisher states on the website that they are not accepting manuscripts at this time, don’t query in hopes they’ll make an exception for you.
Don’t send sample chapters, etc. until requested. Give the publisher ample time to review the query and marketing plan. There are many things the publisher looks for in these initial submissions, and often small publishers don’t have a full time editor or acquisitions editor on staff but subcontract this work out.
The importance of having a marketing plan cannot be overstressed. Authors need to show publishers, particularly small publishers, that they are committed to their work and are willing to invest their time and energy in promoting it. No one can sell a book as well as the author who wrote it! Forget about the big advance - just be happy someone's even considering the work.
Professional Editing Worth the Investment
No matter how well an author thinks he/she writes, no one writes a perfect manuscript. Many authors believe it’s not a problem if the manuscript has errors, because “the publisher will edit it anyway.” This is the time for an author to show belief in his/her work by having the manuscript professionally edited before it’s submitted. An author may spend years writing a book, but will balk at spending several hundred dollars to have it edited professionally, which makes absolutely no sense. Professional editing will tremendously enhance the book’s readability and appeal. With only a little effort one can find an editor who's affordable and knows what he/she is doing.
Teamwork Raises the Odds of Success
By having the manuscript professionally edited, the work will shine and truly stand out from other submissions. Will the publisher have it edited further? Probably, but the book will be far more attractive to the potential publisher, and changes will be far fewer.
Think of a small publisher as a partner, not a guru. An author’s success depends on the publisher’s success, and visa versa. Work with the publisher instead of placing demands and the relationship will be a prosperous one.
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