In speaking with authors and receiving proposals, I often learn that authors WILL:

Establish a website

Find endorsers

Start a newsletter

Start a blog

Line up speaking engagements

Hop on social media

These plans are great. Unfortunately, they are plans. They are not what is already in place to show a publisher how the author will be a partner in selling the book. We prefer to:

Visit an author website. When an author is new, no one expects a $10,000 site with lots of flying objects and sparkling stars setting a brilliant sky alight. However, we (and readers) want an enjoyable experience where we learn about the author. Authors who collaborate with their web designers to optimize their SEO so BAM!, we can find the site immediately, earn more points from us.

Learn who your friends are. If you’re not connected yet, join one or two industry groups, such as ACFW, Word Weavers, or AWSA, to name just three. These groups offer fellowship and many other benefits where you can organically make friends. If you don’t feel confident naming potential endorsers, it’s okay to leave that out of the proposal.

See an established newsletter or active blog. We understand that you may not have 5,000 subscribers if you’re just starting out, but do show us you have a viable newsletter and you’re growing your list. We don’t need you to have both a newsletter and a blog. Right now, the industry is leaning toward an active newsletter with a readership who’s engaged.

Understand how many people you’ll reach through speaking next year. Not every author needs a speaking ministry. However, for nonfiction where you’re showing publishers you are a credible and sought-after source on your topic, showing how many people will be hearing what you have to say is a plus.

Find that you are already engaging on social media. Choose one or two platforms to emphasize and be consistent to gain followers.

Start today for success tomorrow!