Blog for Bristol Services Intl.

A writer emailed me with:  I need to know if I have a talent for commercial writing. I have many ideas for stories.  I would very much appreciate a professional opinion. I’m already 54 years old and would like to spend my time and very little money wisely. So, what do you think?

Answer: First, fresh ideas for stories are great–something all readers appreciate.

Second, there is no way to judge your actual writing until I see it, which I’m sure you appreciate. Sadly, a great premise is only that. Writing technique is another matter altogether. And it takes both to create a fine story.

Third, the publishing world is a brutal and highly competitive business. Short stories, in particular, have few venues these days. So if you are hoping to make money with your writing, you need to look long and hard at the markets, what they pay, how much competition there is for that particular market, etc. Books are also a tough sell, especially for first-time authors. A publisher would willingly pay big money to print a poor novel by a known author who has a following than pay little for a really good manuscript by a first-timer. Why? They know the veteran writer’s novel will sell enough on the author’s name alone to be profitable. And promoting any new author requires not only the risk of whether the book will be popular but the additional costs to promote. I’m giving you the “tough love” here, but I don’t want you to be unrealistic in your expectations. The “if you write it, they will come” just isn’t so.

Discover more about the markets that are available by reading Writer’s Market, Novel and Short Story Writer’s Market, and exploring online marketing directories.

The bigger question is why are you writing? Do you really love it? Find it a fascinating and stimulating idea? Then try it by all means! There is nothing (in this writer/editor’s opinion) more satisfying than creating a world of your own, peopled by characters of your choosing, and then, with them, exploring relationships, philosophies, events and ideas. And the cost is minimal compared to other creative endeavors. You may find you have just the right approach that a publisher will like … and have a great time learning a life-long skill in the process!

QUESTION (from one of my editing clients):
Do I look for endorsements before I submit the book? What do I tell these folks? Will they want to endorse something that isn’t printed, or accepted? I am sure having their endorsements will help get it accepted, but which comes first…the chicken or the egg?!

ANSWER:
Getting endorsements is a great idea– it adds great impact, when you send in the proposal, if the publisher recognizes either the person or their organization. Find someone whose knowledge and ability in that fiction genre or on a subject withing the book is known and respected. Then write to them.

Whether or not it is published is not important to the prospective endorsee. You just explain why you think they are so great (you love the book they published which is similar in some way–but not competitive; you heard their super speech at a recent seminar; you’ve read all their theories on the subject; whatever fits), your background, what you’ve written and ask if there is any chance they could look over what you have … and if they like it how it would mean so much if they could let you know so you could use their endorsement.

Basically, this is a sales pitch letter to them, but you need to make it sound very personal. Which it is! Because you are asking them a really HUGE personal favor–to take time from their busy life to help you, a complete stranger, out! How will they respond? They agree (of course!), read what you have and simply love it (how could they feel otherwise?) and then send you a note about how great it is (surely!). Which you then use as part of your marketing to publishers. Ahhh … doesn’t that make it all sound so easy!

Okay, so maybe they won’t agree. They may not even answer! But you’d be surprised how often I hear that someone versed on a subject or known in a field of writing IS willing to read and endorse a manuscript from a first-time author. Sometimes, even if they don’t have the time to read it all, they will make helpful suggestions. Even that is a huge bonus for you.  

The worst that can happen is you never hear from them or they say “no.” The best? That you make a special contact and get a useful endorsement. Anything in between is still ever so useful. So plunge on and ASK!

Do YOU have special ideas or thoughts to share with the world? Or do you feel your ideas are just too personal … or not earth-shattering enough? How can you help others, improve your own writing skills and gain some writing credits in the process? Share your unique perspective with others.

First, your ideas ARE interesting and special. Why? Because no one will ever see the world the exact same way that you do. Even if someone did, they would never express those ideas in the same way. Each person is unique and your own voice will come through as you express your thoughts. Readers gain by seeing through your eyes, if only for a few sentences. So learn to appreciate that your ideas are worthwhile–and worth sharing.

For example, one writer-client of mine produced a charming little book of fun (and quickly useful) ideas that can inspire writers and improve simply anyone’s life. No fuss, no heavy philosophy–just fast and easy-to-achieve life gems. Called Brian’s List, Brian Benson has produced a great book to start his 2009.

Take a look at his site and the website of others. Consider writing a book, a blog or emails for freinds. Whatever form you prefer, but SHARE YOUR WORDS in 2009!

Any questions? Write me, Sandra Haven, at Bristol Services Intl. by clicking services@bristolservicesintl.com