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Category : Career
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Does Self-Publishing Lead to Traditional Publishing?
Many authors assume that self-publishing will lead to traditional publishing.
But in reality, self-publishing rarely leads to a traditional book deal.
In this week’s podcast episode, we talk about the three things that publishers look at when considering a self-published author.
Listen here: Does Self-Publishing Lead to Traditional Publishing?
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How to Handle Imposter Syndrome
If you ever think that you don’t measure up as a writer …
If you ever think that everyone else is so much better than you are …
If you ever feel like you’re just faking it …
You’re not alone.
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When Authors Go to Court
Don’t take someone else’s ideas or content (don’t plagiarize).Don’t fabricate stories about the past and claim they are true (don’t lie).Don’t set out to make others look bad (don’t libel).Hold up your end of the publishing agreement (don’t breach your contract). -
What You Say Online Matters
It matters when you’re trying to secure an agent.It matters when you’re trying to secure a publisher.It matters when you’re trying to win over readers.It matters and it can affect your publishing career.No, this doesn’t mean that you need to be silent about causes and opinions you believe in.It just means you need to be smart about it. Listen to the Gatecrashers episode here. -
When Is It Time to Self-Publish?
Self-publishing can be the greatest decision an author ever makes.
So why does it feel like you’re giving up on your dream of being traditionally published?
It shouldn’t feel that way. There are certain situations in which self-publishing is your best option! Our latest podcast episode helps you identify when self-publishing might be the best fit for you.
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Why Every Author Needs a Website
Even if you’re unpublished.
Even if you write fiction.
Even if you don’t think anyone will ever visit it.
You need a website, and we talk about why on the latest episode of The Gatecrashers Podcast.
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How to Win Over an Agent
You can do what most people do. You can send queries and attend conferences and pitch agents face-to-face. You can put your projects in front of agents and walk away with a “yes” or “no” answer.
Or you can get agents to like you, as a person.
If an agent likes you, then they’re that much more likely to give you more of their time, more of their input. They’re more likely to sign you.
Listen to the September 21 episode of Gatecrashers Podcast to learn how to win agents over.
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From Small Press to Major Book Deal — An Interview with Wesley Chu
A few years ago, Wesley Chu answered an open submission call from a small publisher. His book was chosen for publication and quickly became a steady seller.
In the years following, Wes has grown a successful career, book by book, opportunity by opportunity. His most recent deal with Del Rey was listed in Publisher’s Marketplace as a “Major Deal,” which is the top tier of their deal categories.
Listen to Wes talk about his writing journey and the importance of being willing to learn as you go.
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How I Got 150,000 Followers in Two Years—An Interview with Heather Thompson Day
For years, Heather Thompson Day‘s author platform hovered around 5,000 followers. Despite numerous book releases with a small denominational press and a steady speaking schedule, she just couldn’t seem to grow her tribe. She felt stuck.
And then all of a sudden, things changed.
Within two years, she hit 150,000 followers.
What changed? What did she do differently?
Listen to our conversation with Heather on the latest episode of Gatecrashers Podcast.
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Let’s Talk Children’s Publishing
What’s your idea for a children’s book? Most authors have one. Whether you typically write adult romance or business nonfiction, chances are you have an idea for a picture book, chapter reader, or kids novel. Chances are, you’ve even written some of it down!
But is it worth an author’s time to pursue a career in kids publishing—especially if writing for children isn’t their true “calling”?