Publishing Basics

Understanding who to contact to get the best publishing service
By Shannon Tani It's easy to understand why a first-time writer may have a hard time understanding the publishing services that are available to them. Various publishing firms offer a wide range of services and it's important for writers to choose the publishing company that's right for them. Knowing the publishing basics will help to make this decision.

In recent years, it is becoming easier for writers to self-publish their books. This works well for many people, but there are still some reasons why you should consider working with publishing companies:

1. They'll catch your mistakes. Every writer thinks that his or her novel is a masterpiece, but this isn't always the case. A publishing firm can help you solidify your story idea and offers an extra set of eyes for a more thorough proofreading.

2. They know the business. Publishing companies know more than just the publishing basics. They have connections that you don't have to help the public notice your book.

3. They have the money for advertising. If you want your book to sell, you need to advertise. Unfortunately, this proves to be quite costly. Publishing houses have the money and talent needed to create a great advertising campaign.

Contact publishing businesses about your book idea

Some writers choose to contact a publishing company directly to query their book. This works best if you are an established writer.
Try:  Houghton Mifflin and MacMillan/McGraw-Hill are two of the industry leaders in the publishing world. Unfortunately, this makes it difficult for new writers to get their foot in the door. You may be better off contacting smaller publishing agencies. The Writer's Market is an excellent resource for finding these types of companies. You can purchase a copy, find one at your local library, or join online.

Find a literary agent to help you break into the publishing industry

There's no doubt that the publishing world is competitive. Many writers have a hard time getting the right people to notice their work. That's why many look for a literary agent who already has connections with publishing companies.
Try:  WritersNet offers a searchable directory of literary agents as well as good advice about how to choose an agent. When looking for an agent, it's important for you to find someone that is reliable and whom you can trust. The Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America offers good information about avoiding dishonest agents.

Consider self publishing your book

While there are many good reasons to work with a publishing company, some writers prefer to self-publish their books. This allows them to have more control over the process and to earn more money per sale.
Try:  Lulu allows you to publish all types of books. RJ Communications offers a free Publishing Basics E-book that can teach you everything that you need to know about self-publishing your book. Make sure that you compare costs before choosing a self-publishing company.

• Most publishing businesses specialize in a particular genre. When you are talking to companies about your book, make sure you choose the companies that will have an interest in the type of book you've written.