Five years ago the most important question a writer could ask was – ‘how do I get published?’ Today, the most important question a writer should ask themselves is – ‘WHY do I want to be published?’
Five years ago writers had two options if they wanted to see their book in print. The first was to send off their manuscript to a publisher and/or agents and keep their fingers crossed that they would be offered a book deal. If, this didn’t work than the only other option was with a vanity press company.
That was five years ago…
Changing technology (internet marketing, short run printing, digital printing and online book buying) now means that writers have a large number of legitimate publishing options.
The traditional book publishing route (agent + publisher) is still the primary (most prestigious) route. However, smaller independent publishers are also now a legitimate option. You can also add to mix the Independent Writer who opts to self-publish their book. These are ALL viable options that provide a writers with a realistic chance of being able to sell enough books to make it all worthwhile.
Five years on the question of ‘how’ to get published is now redundant. What matters today is ‘why’ you want to be published.
If you understand your motivates for wanting to see your book in print, then you can choose the publication route that offers the best chance of success. If you are in it to build a career, hopefully making some serious money along the way, than you need an agent and a big publisher. However, if the money isn’t that important and you just want to see your book in print, then an Independent Publisher could well be the correct route (for you). If you are a specialist in your field, with access to a market of eager readers, then self-publishing may well be way forward.
So – Why do you want to be published? [be honest]
BubbleCow can provide writers with professional help to pitch your book or edit your book in preparation for submission or self-publication.
