It’s an interesting mix when you start writing. The first question is “what is your platform.” The platform is the audience you have before you start writing.
I’m fortunate with the men’s ministry experience I’ve had and the growing movie ministry efforts, but while those are good, it’s not home run material.
Publishers want to know about platform and past writing experience so they know you can bring potential buyers to the table and there are people who have worked with you, you’re professional, and can take editing (which can be painful).
To someone working on their first book, this means that your time is split – writing the book of course, but also having your eyes and ears open to other opportunities.
As noted before, my plan for Thursday through today was simple – the book proposal. Friday afternoon I received a request from a well known and respected organization to write several short pieces for them.
Was it part of my goal for this weekend? No. Did it get the book closer to being completed? No.
Here’s the thing – did it get the book closer to being PUBLISHED? Yes, I believe so by being something I can put in the proposal to show past work / partners.
When you’re writing a book, you’re always growing, and need to be flexible to adapt and see the big picture.
Hope to have final confirmation of the series publication in the next few weeks – don’t want to hex anything (ok, I don’t believe in hexes, but do believe in not announcing things before getting permission).
Because He Lives,
Rich