Annette Snyder--Being a Writer is So Much More

My friend told me I should try and publish a story I wrote for her.  Not wanting to disappoint, I looked into it.

I was stupid.  That’s all there was to it.

I did my research.  I learned that only the top 10% of any author ever makes any money doing it.  Those high advances are for the likes of high profile writers and celebs like King, Roland and Palin.  I knew, only with luck, would I be a breakout author like Sparks. 

Still, I wrote and reworked until I thought my first story was ready.  I investigated publishing houses and avenues through watchdog sites like Predators and Editors and the BBB.

I submitted and was rejected, submitted and was rejected…on and on and on and….you get the drift. 

When my first novel got accepted, my actual education of the publishing industry began.

Even with my extensive delve into writers markets, I didn’t know about formal editing and set up.  I had no clue about marketing.  After my story was accepted, my publisher informed me I was required to have a website.  A what?  How in the ….do I do that?  And what are online groups?  An internet presence with facebook and twitter?  Whatywhody?  I WAS STUPID. 

But I learned and, my publisher, editors, and artists, bless their hearts, were patient enough to help.

My aunt took on the task of my website—for a mere bottle of wine per update, thank you!

My mom and friends distributed bookmark business cards wherever they traveled.

And I got involved with a producers cooperative for my state which taught me about advertizing dollars and coverage. 

Slowly, my knowledge about the writing industry expanded and now I have a website http://annettesnyder.atspace.com  a FaceBook account:  Annette Snyder-Novelist  and a blog http://annettesnyder.blogspot.com  I’m involved in GROW Nebraska, a cooperative that supports small business entrepreneurs  www.growne.com which helps get my work all over the state and beyond and has opened up other avenues like the Archway National Monument in Kearney, Nebraska and soon, a new store in Omaha that opens March 4^th.  I approached several local booksellers about my work and, for a small cut, they stock my novels.  I occasionally advertise in magazines related to my field and state like Romantic Times and Nebraska Life.  I keep an eye open for article call-outs in the newspaper and submit when I’ve got something of interest. That’s good for extending my writing base and free publicity because the newspaper will usually post a byline.

I might not be the top 10% just yet but I’m working on it and learning at the same time.  I wouldn’t have done it had I not taken that first step by writing a book and having my friend say, “You should try and publish this.”  And if my butt can learn, anyone can and that’s all there is to it.