Writing as Business
Once you find the inspiration to put your poems, stories and memories in writing, you step into two worlds – one free-flowing and creative and the other, the practical pragmatic realm of business. Not all writers write for publication but if you do, then today, more than ever, you need to understand the processes of choosing a publishing option, of building your online presence (your platform), of the legal terms or issues you may come across, and much more. Our Writing as Business Series covers key elements every writer will encounter on the way to publication, whether traditionally published or not, plus some extras to help you navigate the often-daunting world of book promotion.
The Path to Publication Review the various publishing options (traditional path for fiction and non-fiction, hybrid presses pros and cons, decision to self-publish), and how to decide what approach is best for you. | June 15 7:00 PM |
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Querying and Pitching A pitch and a query are publishing sales tools for convincing an agent or editor to read pages of your manuscript and consider representing or publishing your book. Learn about submission guidelines, techniques for standing out and how to develop a relationship from the start, plus a few tips for feeling confident when pitching or querying. | June 22 7:00 PM |
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What Editors Want Learn about the process of submitting short fiction, nonfiction, and poetry to magazines (print and online), including how to find and assess journals, record-keeping, understanding rejections, persistence, and making the most of publication when it happens. | June 29 7:00 PM |
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Contract Issues for Writers Learn about the different kinds of terms writers may encounter in traditional publishing contracts as well as terms of service and contracts for self-publishing venues | July 13 7:00 PM |
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Designing the Perfect Book Cover Your book cover is one of your most effective sales tools, and it has to convey the story in a way that generates interest and curiosity. In this presentation with graphics designer Sharla Wailes, learn what decisions are key in designing a book cover as a harmonious blend of font types, technical specifications, and art. | July 20 7:00 PM |
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Building Your Platform while Writing Your Book Whether you are self-publishing or publishing with a traditional house, you are the one responsible for creating your brand and building a platform. You need to decide who you are to your audience, who your readers are, and how to reach and engage them as you write your book. Learn about the various tools to help you build that platform and which ones might be the best fit for you. | July 27 7:00 PM |
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Steps to a Book Launch Learn how to plan for and run a successful book launch whether you have an online presence or not, whether you are traditionally published or self-published. Timelines and planning goals will be reviewed. | August 3 7:00 PM |
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Protecting Your Work Learn how to protect your work from infringement and how to avoid third-party claims that you are infringing their materials. | August 10 7:00 PM |
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Your Story is Your Brand Author and Brand Consultant, Leah Komaiko believes that your brand is to be found in the story you tell. If you craft a compelling story that readers relate to, remember, and share with others, then you have discovered your brand. Learn how to think about what your brand truly is and how to best embody that for greatest success. | August 17 7:00 PM |
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Promoting Your Book Learn how to use Social Media to promote your book including the demographics of the different social media sites (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.) and how to target your audience. Includes suggestions for resources like social media influencers to expand your reach. | August 24 7:00 PM |