When, why and how to approach a ‘traditional’ publisher with your business book manuscript

When, why and how to approach a ‘traditional’ publisher with your business book manuscript

One of the most common questions I am asked by my clients is, ‘How do I get a book deal?’ or, ‘How can I get ‘traditional publishers’ to publish my book?’

Since I began my 90 Day Book program, I have helped a couple of authors to get global publishing deals with a traditional publishing house, which is pretty amazing since I’m an advocate of indie authors – the self-publishing model.

Adverbs don’t add to your authority: Search and destroy

Adverbs don’t add to your authority: Search and destroy

“The road to hell is paved with adverbs”, says the great American writer, Stephen King. I agree. Adverbs are so seductive. They are the sirens of the writer’s world, singing an irresistible melody to lure us onto the rocks and shipwreck our writing. Or, more simply, adverbs undermine the authority of your writing.

Not everyone should write a business book. Should you?

Not everyone should write a business book. Should you?

It pains me to say this, but some people should not write a business book – or not yet. For some people, now is not the time, and they are best to keep their money in their pocket.

How can you tell if you should write and self-publish a book, or should delay or never write a book? You might be surprised by my answers.

If some or all of the qualities below sound like you, don’t write a book.

You may waste your time and money, and may harm your personal brand. The qualities that make for bad books (but not bad people) follow.

It’s a Thing: Choose precise words and your readers will thank you

It’s a Thing: Choose precise words and your readers will thank you

I used to have a secret desire to become a Great Australian Novelist, a desire that led me to study Professional Writing and Editing at (what is now) Deakin University. I got good marks for my first – and last – short story, but my teacher pointed out the number of times I used the word ‘it’.

It, it’s, thing, anything, something and everything are imprecise words. Today, as I edit my clients’ words, I am ruthless with the word ‘thing’ and pretty tough on ‘it’. I replace ‘thing’ or ‘it’ with words that more exactly describe what the author intended. And, if I cannot guess, I send their manuscript back to ask for clarification.

What The Best Business Book Writers Do Every Day

What The Best Business Book Writers Do Every Day

If you are a business book author today, you face two big problems.

The first is that you have lost the first-mover advantage. Great books — including those that are self-published — appear daily. Competition and quality is on the way up. The second big challenge is making writing your book fun.

Professional writers have always faced that challenge. No-one sticks to a career that isn’t fun. And if you are no good, your career won’t stick to you.

Use these three tips to beat your competition and have more fun writing.