10
Steps to a Job as a Romance Writer: /RomanceWriter.asp
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
fabjob.com 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
fabjob.com 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.
10 Steps to a Job as a Romance Writer: /RomanceWriter.asp
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