BECOMING A FULL TIME AUTHOR
Let’s face it, at some time most of us will have dreamed about packing in the nine to five job and setting off on our own path as a full writer, we’ll have that one great idea for a novel or maybe a slant on travel writing that’s been overlooked so far, ‘why not?’ I hear you cry, well in fairness there are talented authors out in the world doing just that.
First things first, there are a lot of authors who publish whilst still having to maintain a full time job, creating a book with a design on writing it from a hammock next to the sea may be a bit far from the reality. Most authors will work hard and cover many hours whilst writing their novel, this is normally done behind closed doors and without any distractions either.
Once the novel is complete you’ll still need a plan designed to sell the book to the masses (if self-publishing) and be prepared for the obligatory rejection letters that will come from the publishing houses , yes most writers get them, even the big names in writing had to overcome them too.
First things first, there are a lot of authors who publish whilst still having to maintain a full time job, creating a book with a design on writing it from a hammock next to the sea may be a bit far from the reality. Most authors will work hard and cover many hours whilst writing their novel, this is normally done behind closed doors and without any distractions either.
Once the novel is complete you’ll still need a plan designed to sell the book to the masses (if self-publishing) and be prepared for the obligatory rejection letters that will come from the publishing houses , yes most writers get them, even the big names in writing had to overcome them too.
So with so many challenges which will face the author it’s clear that the number one trait which will see you through has to be the passion and dedication you show to your craft, it’s those authors who write because it’s so much a part of their soul that they couldn’t function without putting pen to paper. Being completely committed to your work will always tend to give you the edge needed in making your career as a writer work and most importantly pay.
This dedication will cover you when researching for your next novel, if you are writing non-fiction then the attention to detail will need to be exact in every aspect, get a fact wrong and you’ll be inundated with keen-eyed readers who’ll happily point out your mistake. Planning your working routine and also taking the time to design a schedule will ensure you can work in an efficient and productive manner.
This dedication will cover you when researching for your next novel, if you are writing non-fiction then the attention to detail will need to be exact in every aspect, get a fact wrong and you’ll be inundated with keen-eyed readers who’ll happily point out your mistake. Planning your working routine and also taking the time to design a schedule will ensure you can work in an efficient and productive manner.
As stated prior, once you have finished your book, had it edited, formatted and a great book cover design made for it you will need to get it published and promoted (if self-publishing) this will be where you will have to work just as hard as you did in the creation of your book. If you are planning to get your work out into the world via a publishing house then they will of course format, edit and create the book cover for you. Promoting your book will come in many guises, you will need an online presence such as a website and social networking feeds (Facebook & Twitter), a blog or maybe several blogs depending upon the nature of the books your writing.
You will also need to get out into the big wide world and attend book/writers fairs, expos and events all designed at promoting authors, publishers, editors and of course book cover makers. Not only will you need to attend these events but you should also consider holding your own launch party for each title you publish. All of this may sound a little scary, but with time you’ll soon become a dab hand at selling your book to every one you meet.
Ultimately the job of an author is one which requires a great deal of skill and creativity but also (and just as importantly) it’s one of belief in yourself and a dedication to your writing.
Good luck!
You will also need to get out into the big wide world and attend book/writers fairs, expos and events all designed at promoting authors, publishers, editors and of course book cover makers. Not only will you need to attend these events but you should also consider holding your own launch party for each title you publish. All of this may sound a little scary, but with time you’ll soon become a dab hand at selling your book to every one you meet.
Ultimately the job of an author is one which requires a great deal of skill and creativity but also (and just as importantly) it’s one of belief in yourself and a dedication to your writing.
Good luck!
