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Getting Published

WritMktPlace11-12_webBefore contacting a publisher it’s
a good idea to do some research.
Publishers’ websites are a good
place to start, as you can check
to see if they have a history of
publishing titles similar to your
own as well as research important
information on the length and
style of their current publications.





Many imprints are only interested in:

  • previously published authors
  • writers they already know
  • or manuscripts that come through literary agents

This means you must be highly organised in your approach. Finding out the following may help a great deal:

  • Do they take unsolicited works?
  • What are their submission guidelines?
  • What markets or genres do they deal with?
  • Where does your title fit – where would it sit in a bookstore?


Publishers usually want to see an introductory letter, a synopsis and the first three chapters but remember what you present, whether it’s a synopsis or a covering letter, must be the best that you can produce. There’s no harm in contacting the appropriate editor for your genre and asking if they’d like to see your manuscript. A good site for ideas about writing synopses and query letters can be found here; another quite comprehensive site for query letters can be found at Galleycat.

 

Another option, particularly for those who write genre-based short fiction (sci-fi, horror, crime, western or erotica), are the small independent presses. Publication there can lead to bigger and brighter opportunities and will certainly raise your profile as a writer.


Finding a literary agent who will represent you is a huge advantage but not always easy.

 

Advances, royalites and payments differ widely across publishers and territories, as do freelance rates for journalism, ghost writing and rates for emerging writers – experience,  previous publications and whether you have a name all come into the equation. The ASA has a useful page that covers a wide range of payment ares.


The Australian Writers' Marketplace has a comprehensive contact details and submission information for most publishing houses in Australia. Most English-speaking countries have a Publishers Association. Sometimes you have to purchase directory information:


If you require more information on this subject, please This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  to make an appointment.