So, you’ve decided to take your writing to the next level with a book. Good for you. A published book can serve as a promotional tool, and advance sales (as well as your perceived expertise). But, writing a book is a big task. Be sure to plan ahead and give some thought to these important considerations:
- To attract the attention of publishers, create a compelling proposal. In the non-fiction world, it is typical for a book proposal to be created before the whole book. The proposal is used to promote the book to publishers, and includes an outline, market information, and promotional plans. You write the book after your stunning proposal has won you a book contract.
- Organize your thoughts on both large and small scales. As with any writing project, it is prudent to create an outline before diving in. With a book, your outline should address your high-level (chapter-by-chapter) ideas, as well as more detailed (within each chapter) concepts.
- Have a deadline for completion, and set aside time each day to meet it. Your book isn’t going to write itself! Work some time into your schedule to write each day, even if it’s only half an hour. It may not seem like much, but your efforts will quickly add up.
- If you plan to use your book to promote your company, make sure it complements your products or services. Say you sell pet products–leashes, food bowls, toys, and so on. And, say your book is on pet psychology. Think about working in ideas for products that will solve pet owner problems related to pet psychology. Be sure to include your website address so readers will buy those products from you!
- Allow the writing process to be a discovery process and amend your outline if needed. Writing, especially a large document, is rarely a linear process. You may think you know where you’re going, but end up somewhere else. That’s okay; be willing to change course if necessary.
Do you have an idea for a nonfiction book? Please share in the comments!
About the Author: Karen Marcus, M.A. is a Northern Colorado copywriter who has been helping clients in a wide range of industries to put their best word forward for 13 years.
Need assistance writing a nonfiction book? Karen can help! Click here for contact info.
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