There are many steps to being a writer and each one is like a rung on the ladder to success. Like any other business, there is no "get rich" way to do it. I always advise that writers do not give up the day job until checks are coming in steadily... and even then, wait a year until you are sure it's not just a flash in the pan!
First and foremost is the story itself. Once written, a writer must learn that rewrites and revisions are an integral part of the process. Most editors/publishers will reject a story after the first sentence, so spelling and grammar have to be perfect. There is no second chance to make that first impression, as the saying goes.
Learn how to write an effective query and cover letter. They are essential -- most publishers will require them.
Once you are your writing skills are the best they can be, then comes the business end... submitting. It may start with purchasing "Writer's Market." In it, you will find listings of thousands of markets available to you. Each publisher includes a list of what they are looking for, how much they pay, if they require a query or cover letter, etc.
After submitting your work, you will now take part in the waiting game. Publishers sometimes take upwards of eight months to reply to your submission. That is why it is a good idea to submit many stories, and keep submitting instead of waiting for one to reply.
If you get rejections... don't let them discourage you! We ALL get them! Much depends on what that particular publisher is looking for, the time of day, who reads your submission, the kind of mood they are in, and what the weather is like. :) So many things can factor into their decisions, and with thousands of submission a year, they will be very particular.
Some tips:
Avoid writing about your life and your own experiences (unless they are extraordinary). Most publishers will assume you are new to writing.
Try to stay away from writing stories that are popular right now. Most publishers are looking for something fresh... something that will be popular in the future.
Get very used to doing research. Publishers can tell who has done their homework, and who hasn't.
Get help! Even the most seasoned writers need a little help now and then. Find a mentor or critique group with those who will read your work and give you a critique that doesn't sugarcoat. Not to say they should cut you off at the knees, but If they aren't blunt, you can bet a publisher will be. It may be much easier coming straight from someone you have come to trust, rather than a publisher or editor who will file your work right in the trash.
Be patient! Writers learn quickly that there is no way to rush a publisher's decision. If you try to tell them you will submit elsewhere if you don't hear from them after a period of time, they may actually take that as a threat. You want to stay in their good graces... unless of course they are holding your story for eight months to a year. In that case, kindly let them know you have taken their silence as a negative. This may sometimes make them take a second look. :)
Most importantly... never, never, never give up!
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Copyright 2001
The contents of this article may not be reproduced in any form or by any means, including electronic, mechanical, or with intent to republish, without written permission from the author,
Sharzi Avins.
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