5 Tips to Get Your Book Published

For many coaches who want to increase their offerings and diversify their profit streams, publishing a book is an attractive option. I achieved this goal myself in July 2015 when my book, The Confidence Coach, was published by Exisle Publishing. I’ve enjoyed writing from an early age and had always dreamed of having an actual book of my own sitting on a shelf in a bookstore. As a result, rather than self-publish, I decided to pursue the more traditional route of seeking a contract with a great publisher.

Since my book has been published, many people have approached me to find out what steps I took. To be honest, I don’t believe there is a one-size-fits-all approach, and in my personal experience, a little self-belief and some manifestation techniques also go a long way! With that said, here are five important tips for any coach seeking a publishing contract.

1. Do your research.

Find out which publishers produce books in your genre. Visit bookstores and look online. Most publishers only work within specific genres, so there is no point in sending your self-help manuscript to a publisher that only publishes fiction or children’s books. Start by making a list of publishers that you would like to approach. Make sure each of your target publishers is reputable. Many countries have searchable databases to support your research process (e.g., the Australian Society of Authors, the Literary Marketplace).

2. Review the publishers’ websites.

Publishers often publish their submission guidelines on their website. Make sure you pay attention to these, as they will explain the exact process you need to follow. For example, some publishers want to see just a few chapters of your manuscript; others want a cover letter that outlines your project and/or a chapter-by-chapter synopsis. Some accept unsolicited manuscripts; others only accept books from agents. If you need more information, write or call the publisher to request writer’s guidelines. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you need to write your entire book before submitting it to a publisher, though. In my experience, most publishers will only require a few chapters of your book at most, together with a heap of supporting information.

3. Present yourself professionally.

These days, editors won’t even look at a manuscript that isn’t presented professionally. The same applies to you. Publishers are people too. Somebody has to decide that you’ll be good to work with and he or she will have to persuade others of that. Do you come across as self-important and pompous, or interesting and interested? What are you able to do to promote the book, and can you demonstrate that you will follow through on your commitment? Many publishers would prefer a good manuscript by a great author who will help sell it, to a brilliant manuscript by someone who is not going to be any good on radio or TV.

4. Make writing fun.

For me, part of the fun in getting a book published is to enjoy the journey. Check in with yourself regarding your reasons for writing the book in the first place. If it is merely to make extra cash, you might find yourself struggling if you don’t enjoy the process itself. I highly recommend focusing on your passion and writing about what makes you feel good!

5. Be prepared to wait.

It may take two to six months or even longer to hear back from a publisher, but don’t give up. If possible, don’t submit your manuscript to more than one publisher at a time.

Many people give up after they receive their first rejection letter, but if you’re passionate about writing, keep at it: The writers who refuse to give up on their dream are the most likely to succeed. Remember, too, that you must be absolutely committed to your ideas and to the book you are writing: If you don’t believe in it, nobody else will.