Learn from other authors Experiences

Source: firstwriter.com

Mistakes are costly, no matter what the situation. They may cost your money or your reputation. You may lose faith in yourself and your ability. Sometimes they cost people their very dreams since many authors and artists do not recover from bad experiences to go on, persevere and get published or recognised.

1. So be informed. Get all the information you can before you sign a contract. Check company statistics, personal background information on the people involved. Check with local and national Better Business Bureau to see if there is any information. If it is a new publisher, ask for business plans, financial records, something to ensure they are legitimate.

2. Check agents out with AAAR (Association of Author and Artist Representatives).

3. Be wise. If you get a contract with a new or even bigger publishing company, try and negotiate keeping your existing contract intact for sometime. Many publishing houses take up to 2 years to get your book on the shelves, do not lose out on that precious time to promote your existing career! Do not get swept away by what might be and never give away control of any existing books you still have.

4. Be discerning and be patient, it takes time and perserverance to establish any career! Especially writing.

5. Most of all, be loyal. To yourself and to your integrity. If you have a bad or negative experience, warn others without trashing someone else. We all have big dreams. We all experience the not-so-good in life. We all make mistakes. None of us are perfect. So, remember the Golden Rule and do not exalt yourself by lowering someone else in others eyes.