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10
Steps to a Job as a Romance Writer
by Lori Soard
FabJob Inc. publishes
books, e-books, and CD-ROMs that can help you break into a "fab"
job. Visit www.FabJob.com
for information and career advice.
If you have
always believed your fantasies worthy of being read by
millions, now is the time to start using your runaway
imagination to your benefit. With thousands of romance novels
being published each year, it is easier to get
published today than it has ever been in the past.
A career in
romance writing allows you to work from home, at your own
pace, and during the hours you prefer. Romance writing
generally pays better than other genres of fiction, so you can
make more money, or work fewer hours, whichever
you prefer. Finally, this line of work lets you truly touch
the hearts of your readers, and give them the confidence to
seek love and happiness in their own lives.
No special
education or experience is necessary to break into this
career. Successful romance writers merely require
independence, creativity, and a determination to succeed. If
this sounds like you, follow these ten steps based on the
Guide to Become a Romance Writer to
make your mark in this field. Who knows, you may be the next
rising star!
1. Do some reading
If you
already love to read romance novels, you are likely an ideal
candidate for writing them. If you are unfamiliar with this
type of novel, you will want to start off by exploring the
genre. If you haven't read a romance lately, you might be
surprised at the new trends within the industry. Try reading a
variety of genres to get an idea of what you would enjoy
writing, and to familiarize yourself with the conventions of
each.
2. Develop your skills
Many of the
skills you need to write will be developed as you practice, so
keep those pens moving. Keep in mind that becoming a writer is
an ongoing process. If you need some feedback, a local or
online writers critique group can also help you further hone
your writing skills. If you find yourself stuck for ideas,
there are creativity exercises you can learn, and if your
grammar needs some help, brush up with a book or quick
course.
3. Get some experience
So you want
to list publishing credits to help your chances of selling,
but you can't list those without selling, and it's hard to
sell without the credits. Sound like a Catch-22? It is.
Fortunately, you can get your feet wet publishing articles and
short stories in magazines and ezines. Make sure you are
familiar with the writers' guidelines and the publication
itself before you submit. You may even consider accepting a
couple of non-paying assignments in order to build your
credentials.
4. Your proposal package
It is
important to create a professional image when you submit your
work to an agent or editor, since editors are often swamped
with submissions and will only read those that follow their
guidelines. Most publishers want to receive a 'proposal,'
which consists of the first three chapters, a synopsis of the
plot and a cover letter. Send them whatever their guidelines
indicate, and don't forget to include a SASE (self addressed
stamped envelope) for a reply or return of your manuscript.
5. Target a publisher
If you have
read widely in the romance genre, you will have an idea of
which publishers will be most interested in your style of
writing. In addition to the major publishers (Harlequin,
Kensington, etc.) be aware that there are thousands of smaller
and electronic presses that initially may be more receptive.
You will want to send them your proposal package, addressed to
the current editor. Directories and the
Guide to Become a Romance Writer are useful for
finding contact information of publishers to submit to.
6. Self-publishing
What if your
book is so cutting edge that even the small presses don't feel
comfortable taking it on? If you have shopped your book around
and not received a positive response, self-publishing may be
the route for you. Digital printing now allows for the
cost-effective printing of as few as one copy of your book at
a time, so you can set up your novel for around $100 and have
it available to the public within a few weeks.
7. Get an agent
If you've
got your sights set on the large publishing houses, or are
terrified of negotiating, you may consider getting an agent to
help you find a home for your book. Once you have found an
agent you'd like to work with, ensure that he or she has a
good reputation in the industry. Bear in mind that an agent
will take about 10-15% of everything you earn on your book.
8. Dealing with editors
It's
important to have a good relationship with someone you hope to
be dealing with on an ongoing basis, so once you have interest
from an editor, establish and maintain a professional
relationship with him or her. Allow three to six months for
them to consider novel proposals, and don't pester them with
phone calls. Once they have expressed interest, be
business-like, and make changes to your work as requested. A
little respect goes a long way in this business.
9. Networking
Conferences,
local writing workshops and conventions are wonderful places
to meet fellow authors, editors, agents and publicists. Many
are even set up to allow writers to meet on a one-to-one basis
with agents and editors. Not only are these situations great
for networking, but just joining a national or local writers
organization can bring you knowledge from the workshops and
conferences they offer.
10. Self-promotion
Building a
readership and increasing book sales are two of the most
important things authors can do to promote their careers. If
hiring a publicist isn't in your budget (and you may be
surprised to find it is) there are a number of things you can
do to promote yourself, such as getting media attention,
creating a website, and doing book signings. Be creative, and
be persistent…it can only benefit you in the long run
FabJob Inc. publishes books,
e-books, and CD-ROMs that can help you break into a "fab" job.
Visit www.FabJob.com
for information and career advice.
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