Lindstrom Literary Management LLC

For Writers:
What Does It Take to Make It?

Today’s publishing industry is a tough nut to crack. An author cannot expect to write a book, get it published, then sit back and rest on his or her laurels. In fact, many fine books never get past the first significant hurdles to a successful career: finding a reputable agent and publisher. The market is intensely competitive, and while many writers may think their job is done when their book is released by a major publisher, the opposite is true. Writers must be prepared to hit the ground running before their pub date to assertively market their books.

So what does it take to make it in this environment? Writers should recognize that this is a business, and should approach the challenge as professionals. Someone who sits down one day to dash off a thriller just for fun is not likely to succeed in the long run; nor in most cases is the casual writer who takes 10 years to complete a single book. Agents and publishers are interested in people with a track record of finished manuscripts and publication, if not of other books, then at least of short works in recognized periodicals.

For Writers

Books that have been self-published or produced at companies like PublishAmerica or iUniverse are more likely to hurt rather than help a writer’s cause when listed on a resume. Credentials – especially for writers of nonfiction – are very important. Listing little known online sites and obscure awards is not the same as solid credentials that represent a pattern of achievement and a history with legitimate organizations and publications.

Some say luck plays a big part in being a successful writer. But really, three things are critical to making it: talent, discipline, and the ability to bounce back from rejection and frustration. With these three attributes, a candidate for a successful publishing career makes his or her own luck by being ready for opportunities when they present themselves.