When considering traditional publishing, new authors may think it’s harder than ever to go from unpublished (or “pre-published” as the popular euphemism goes) to published. However, that’s not the case.

The truth is, it has ALWAYS been difficult to become a traditionally published author.

When my first book was published in the 1990s, my uncle, a high school history teacher at the time, told one of his friends, an English teacher, about my success. The English teacher, said, “Do you know how HARD that is?” My uncle has always been supportive of me, but I think at that point his awe and respect level shot up 200%.

Now that the secret’s out, you can move forward with even more confidence if you:

1.) Keep writing and submitting your best work.

2.) Follow guidelines from agents, editors, and publishing houses.

3.) Be willing to write what will appeal to the market.

4.) Listen to the advice from your team of publishing professionals.

5.) Know you can negotiate, but be cautious and prayerful about the battles you choose during the process.

6.) Keep communication open between yourself and your agent.

7.) Be of good cheer.

Even the most talented and savvy new writer may need a few tries before seeing publication. However, the persistent and professional author with whom editors and agents want to work will find that the door remains open much longer than it will for uncooperative authors who don’t want to put in the time and work.

At our agency, we want to open doors for you.

Your turn:

What other factors do you think help a new author?

What new author have you recently discovered?