tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50758297074202206422024-02-21T07:36:57.814-05:00The Publishing Answers BlogHelping Writers & Authors Plan Their Way To SuccessCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.comBlogger209125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-23292542849520031932011-01-31T13:45:00.005-05:002011-01-31T16:59:40.347-05:00My Lesson Can Be Your Lesson & What's NextJust about 3 years ago now, I started this blog and my path to helping other authors-to-be on their publishing journeys. Along the way, I have met so many awesome people and it's been fun to be able to see several of you grow in your writing, mission and in your ability to reach your audience. And I thank all of you for the opportunity to share my insights (and ramblings) with you here over the past few years.<br /><br />All that being said, I've been feeling for a while that something was missing, that something wasn't quite right with where my business was (or wasn't) going. Couldn't quite put my finger on until recently when I took a big step and hired a business coach. As a quick aside, if you're stuck either with your writing or the business of writing, I highly recommend hiring a coach, whether it's me or someone else. Having that outside view, the view you'll likely never see because you're too close to the situation, is worth paying for even if you have to stretch out of your comfort zone just a little. That's the first lesson I hope you can learn from my experience.<br /><br />The next lesson involves what I learned from the coach. One of the most important things was I realized I didn't have a solid grasp of who my audience really is. I needed to be much more specific regarding what kind of writer I can help the most and best work with. Even though it sounds counter-intuitive, my net was actually too broad. Many authors and business people fall into this and it causes a lot of floundering and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">un</span>-focused effort.<br /><br />What came out of that conversation for me was both a new plan for my business and a new website. While I'll still be talking about some of the how-to of publishing, I can now summarize what I do like this: <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style="">I help authors and entrepreneurs and other thought leaders create content with confidence.</b> <span style="font-style: italic;">Whether you need to write a blog post, a book, or something in between, I can help you do it better, faster and with less stress.<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">Notice how it is more focused than "publishing answers"? While publishing how-to will absolutely still be a part of the mix, what I really want to dive into right now is the "stuff" that goes into a book, blog etc-to help people make it the best it can be. The ability to write strong, compelling content gets more important pretty much daily, and I'm really excited to be joining in that conversation.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">If that sounds like something you want and need, I invite you to follow me over to my new space at <a href="http://www.cherylpickett.com"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">CherylPickett</span>.com </a>You can also go to my new <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Facebook</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">fanpage</span>. If you're not sure, come by and take a look around and see if it strikes a chord. If it does, I look forward to being able to serve you. If it doesn't, no worries whatsoever. I wish you all the best in your publishing journey and am blessed to have crossed your path. Onward!!<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Good Writing & God Bless,</p><p class="MsoNormal">Cheryl<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></p>Cheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-77161570167177445192011-01-09T15:20:00.002-05:002011-01-09T17:37:37.120-05:00Where Will Your Writing Come From This Year?It's a new year and hopefully, for all or most of you, that means new writing projects. Maybe there will be lots of short things like articles, or maybe it's time to write that first or next book. Whatever it is, my question for you to kick things off is where will your writing come from?<br /><br />When asked, many writers say their writing comes from their heart or their soul but it can be defined a bit further. What is driving those words to the outside from within? Do they come from the pure joy of writing about a subject or because you can't not write? Does your creativity well up to the point where it simply cannot be contained? Does it come from a place of prior suffering and survival? Do they come from a fire that's deep inside that burns indignant over injustice, the state of the world's oceans or someone <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">else's</span> pain? Likely, the answer changes from time to time and from season to season in your life. There's really no wrong answer, it's just useful to know what it is.<br /><br />So, where will your writing come from in 2011?<br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-9892493040023016712010-12-22T14:45:00.005-05:002010-12-22T15:59:14.769-05:00Holiday Hopes & Wishes<span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">As children, how many times did you utter the phrase "I hope I get..." at Christmas? I'm sure we all have, and maybe we done so even more recently and the hope was for bigger things than a toy or special gift.</span> <span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">Here's my 2011 holiday version, what's yours?<br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">Whether you've been reading my blog for a day or the nearly 3 years it's been up (can't believe it's been that long!) I sincerely hope you've learned things along the way that have made a difference in your publishing journey. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">There are new things on the horizon for me in 2011 so I also hope you'll stay tuned. And if during those "so what are you up to" conversations during the holidays, you happen to speak to someone who's struggling with the book process, I humbly hope you'll send them my way. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">Lastly, and certainly most importantly, I hope & pray that you all get these gifts during this holiday season and beyond- the peace, love, joy and contentment that came in a manger long ago. It's not going to be wrapped and under the tree, but it is free and bountiful. Blessings to you & your families now and in the New Year.<br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl Pickett<br /></span>Cheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-43663448304038124342010-12-08T10:48:00.004-05:002010-12-08T11:02:04.246-05:00How to Publish a Book: Changing AgainHow to publish a book may finally be changing for the better. If you've been following my blog, or any publishing info at all for the last year or two, you know the publishing world is changing in twists and turns that most would not have thought of even 10 years ago probably. Some of it has helped but there's lots more to do in many people's opinion including mine. True, all of the upheavel remains exciting and somewhat daunting for authors and publishers alike, the thing is thing aren't going to settle down nicely any time soon.<br /><br />One new project that will undoubtedly cause both encouragement and consternation is coming from Seth <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Godin</span>, who is known for thinking ahead as well as doing something to fix the stuff that's broken. He has written several books and some have been published traditionally. Now he's going to try something else, a more direct to market approach. If it works, and I know it will to at least an extent, it will allow authors to get messages out in a more timely fashion and eliminate some of the nonsense that the traditional firms still hold to like returns and the ridiculously long time to actually produce a book.<br /><br />If write non-fiction especially, I advise you to follow along. You can read the intro details to The Domino Project <a href="http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/12/the-domino-project.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+typepad%2Fsethsmainblog+%28Seth%27s+Blog%29&utm_content=My+Yahoo">here and then follow along</a> by subscribing or liking the page on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">FB</span>.<br /><br />As an author, why should you pay attention? Because the days of handing over a book to a publisher and then sitting down to write the next one while "they" do the rest are over. OVER. You are now a big part of "they" and you need to do your absolute best to play your part on the team.<br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-74484902238254384022010-12-02T15:55:00.004-05:002010-12-02T16:33:06.554-05:00You've Got One, Is It the Best it Can Be?As an author in 2010 (almost 2011) you have a website. One of the components on that website is an "About" page which is your Bio. If you have a book out already, you also have some sort of short bio on the back cover or somewhere inside. On <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Facebook</span> and Twitter or Linked in? Bios again, though shorter.<br /><br />You've got one, so is it the best it can be? Meaning, does it hold the readers interest, does it make them chuckle, or go "ah-ha, that explains a lot" ? Or is it the old cookie cutter experience, expertise & awards-you know the kind. If so, unfortunately, your BIO = BORING.<br /><br />If that's you, don't worry, many, if not most of us have written one like that. Often it's because that's the example we had. Those kinds of Bios do get the information across basically, but they can certainly be better. Luckily, it's not to hard to learn how to fix them.<br /><br />Recently, I had the pleasure of reviewing marketing expert Nancy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Juetten's</span> newest guide<a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.mainstreetmediasavvy.com/bye-bye-boring-bio-action-eguide"> Bye Bye Boring Bio</a><span style="font-weight: bold;">. </span>Not only does she go through the various kinds of Bios (in case you forgot one), she gives lots of before & after examples and other tips to get you on the right track. It's easy to follow and as a writer, you should be able to harness your creativity and kick things up a notch without much difficulty by following this information. If you're still stuck though after reading it, she also offers a Bio makeover writing service as well.<br /><br />I've read some advice over the past few years about how to make a bio better than average, but in this book I found there's still plenty I can do so I've added upgrading to my plans for 2011.<br /><br />If this sounds like something you can use (and you most likely can), I'd highly recommend putting <a href="http://www.mainstreetmediasavvy.com/bye-bye-boring-bio-action-eguide">Bye Bye Boring Bio</a> on your Christmas list or maybe giving yourself an early treat.<br /><br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-21505494141670391622010-11-23T13:32:00.005-05:002010-11-23T13:59:19.209-05:00Why Would They?The question above can be finished in a myriad of ways. First, you need to know "they" are your readers/potential readers. Now let's consider what "they" might do:<br /><br />1. Why would they buy your book?<br /><br />2. Why would they recommend your book?<br /><br />3. Why would they consider giving your book to someone else as a gift?<br /><br />Notice the perspective with these questions- it's not why <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">should</span> they...? As authors with a message or point to make, sometimes we (and I include myself) totally see things as why people <span style="font-style: italic;">should</span> buy etc. They should buy because it's a great book, or they should recommend it because "everybody" needs to read my advice. We've all been there in one form or another.<br /><br />Don't get me wrong, you need to have confidence in your message and the drive to promote it. The issue is the "should" answers are often our reasons, and "they" may or may not think or feel the same way. So the key is to answer the questions above and then tell people how easy it is for them to buy, recommend and give, rather than trying to convince them that they should do so. Better still sometimes, write with the answers to those questions in mind to begin with.<br /><br />Got the idea? How about sharing your answers or attempt at answers to today's questions. It doesn't have to be perfect, instead let's focus on learning and helping each other get from should to would.<br /><br />Lastly, I wish you all a safe & most blessed Thanksgiving holiday.<br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-6585979338033430932010-11-08T20:00:00.003-05:002010-11-08T20:18:58.141-05:00One At a TimeHow many issues are you trying to overcome or work around in your business at the moment? How many things are you putting off? How many "fires" need to be put out before you can get moving in the right direction?<br /><br />For many if not most of us, the answer is 'to many'. Some days it just seems like there's so much in the way of the good stuff doesn't it?<br /><br /><a href="http://cathystucker.com/kill-them-one-at-a-time">A post</a> that I think addresses this situation nicely was shared by marketing expert Cathy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Stucker</span>. The gist is when you hit this situation handle it bit by bit. Choose one to do at a time, maybe one a week. That's it-just one. The point being that bite size pieces can whittle down the overwhelm into something more manageable. Keep going bit by bit and before you know it, things are completely different.<br /><br />So what's it going to be for you? Write one paragraph and get unstuck. Tidy up your workspace so there's actually space to work in. Send in that query that you've been afraid to send.<br /><br />If you'd like to share what your first or next task is going to be feel free. Either way, take a bite.Cheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-39043898463727367082010-10-28T13:58:00.003-04:002010-10-28T18:55:56.393-04:00Do You Own Your Name?This might sound like an odd question, but in the world of the Internet, it's not. If you are in business, or if you're an author, your name is out there, not just the name of your company or book. That means it is in your best interest to own it everywhere possible.<br /><br />By now, most people know about the popularity of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Facebook</span> and usually accounts are in their name or, if female, name plus maiden name is common too. If you've done that, great!<br /><br />But what about the others? Do you own your name on Twitter? Maybe. How about YouTube? That's right YouTube. I hadn't really thought about YouTube until one of my mentors mentioned it's definitely a place where you want to own your name if you can. So now I do. I will likely promote via YouTube in the future, now I can do it using my own name in the link if I choose to. The next one I need to check is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">LinkedIn</span>, but I'm pretty sure I've seen another Cheryl Pickett come up in searches linked to that site.<br /><br />Now some of you might be saying, 'but I don't ever intend to use some of those sites'. That's fine, not everything is right for everybody. If you're building an online presence though, you can help keep continuity by owning your name and not letting someone else build a reputation people might confuse for yours (whether it's good or bad).<br /><br />If you have a really unusual name, you might not have to worry much about others taking your spot, and if you have a super common name, you're probably out of luck already, but somewhere in between, you might want to do some investigation. If all you do is open an account with the big three (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Facebook</span>, YouTube, Twitter), at least you have it for the future, even if you aren't ready to jump in this minute.<br /><br />So now it's your turn to share- where do you own your name? Did you miss out anywhere with the basic first/last, how did you handle it?<br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-51881229817067694072010-10-08T14:10:00.005-04:002010-10-11T12:09:19.650-04:00Children's Books Falling Victim to Better Education?I found this interesting, somewhat disheartening article in the NY Times recently. Basically, it says <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2010/10/08/us/08picture.html?_r=2&partner=rss&emc=rss">picture books are no longer as popular </a>as they once were and that they are actually on a downward trend. The interesting and honestly, surprising part to me, was that this downward trend is not so much due to videos and other electronic media (though that's part of it), but rather people's belief picture books are too easy to read. Many think kids as young as four should be reading simple chapter books, not ones filled with pictures and little text.<br /><br />While I am in absolute agreement that in general the U.S. education system is severely lacking in many ways, I can't subscribe to this line of thinking at this point. I believe picture books are a valuable, useful tool well beyond 3 or 4. Those that are done well help readers match words and ideas to visual design. Many are masterful works of art and can encourage the pursuit of drawing, painting and illustrating for many age groups. As an adult, I still love finding an artfully done picture book and if the words are secondary, that's not a bad thing. In addition, picture books can be quite complex requiring the reader to understand word play through pictures or to find hidden meanings or solve puzzles.<br /><br />To say that the only good option to advance kids' reading skills at the preschool and kindergarten level is through books with minimal pictures is misguided in my opinion. Exposing them to a wide variety of things to read throughout their lives on the other hand can only create a well-rounded reader and hopefully a life-long reader too.<br /><br />What do you think?<br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-55057449389223792542010-09-17T20:04:00.002-04:002010-09-17T20:21:54.623-04:00New Garden Makes Books Come AliveWhat do you get when you combine a love of books and gardens? Keep reading & find out!<br /><br />My friend Barb <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Techel</span> (who I'm also so proud to say is a client of mine too) finds some of the most interesting places to hook up with to promote and sell her books. I imagine some of them find her too, but either way, she is definitely one to watch to get the creative juices going if yours have dried up.<br /><br />Her latest adventure involves teaming up with an absolutely beautiful and cool place called Bookworm Gardens located in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Sheboygan</span> Wisconsin. It's called a literary garden and it brings to life several classic tales like Charlotte's Web and The Magic <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Treehouse</span>. Barb's book Frankie the Walk 'n Roll Dog will soon be featured as well. However, it's more than just another attraction for families to visit and look at nice displays and flowers. It provides a place for imaginations of all ages to run free among the trees, flowers, words and rhymes. With so many stories being written about how kids/people are reading less I absolutely applaud this effort to make a difference and to make sure the future is full of book lovers. I hope my imagination and I get to visit soon.<br /><br /><a href="http://joyfulpaws.typepad.com/joyful_paws/2010/09/welcome-to-bookworm-gardens.html#tpe-action-resize-292">Find out more about Barb and the Gardens at her site/blog Joyful Paws. </a><br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-40393453080704917102010-09-09T11:30:00.003-04:002010-09-09T13:04:58.156-04:00Follow Along or Even Participate in a Book TourOne thing that's cool about the writing/author/publishing world is that it's often possible to go behind the scenes. You can't do that in just any industry. Try going to Pepsi, NIKE, or Ford and asking them how they do their research to come up with new ideas or if they can give you marketing advice. Most likely isn't going to happen, but author to author, a lot of times it can and does. I came across one such circumstance this week that I found particularly intriguing.<br /><br />Author Chris <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Guillebeau</span> recently launched his book <span style="font-style: italic;">The Art of Non-Conformity </span>along with his Unconventional Book Tour. In a nutshell, he is, on his own, planning to go to all 50 states along with the 10 provinces of Canada between now and early January 2011. It's unconventional in that it's organized, but not in the traditional style that most big publishers have used for decades where big bookstores, big media are the targets and it costs quite a bit to do. He's partially planning as he goes and is willing to visit whatever location will have him whether bookstore, gift store, yoga studio or home. Besides selling and promoting the book, the thing is he wants most is to meet his readers whether they read the book, <a href="http://chrisguillebeau.com/3x5/">his blog</a> or both.<br /><br />Sounds like a plan to me and a pretty good one at that. I'll be following along though I don't know if I'll make it to his MI event. If you'd like to as well, click <a href="http://unconventionalbooktour.com/">here to find out about the Unconventional Book Tour</a>. If you get to meet I hope you'll pop back over here and share your experience/what you learned as a fellow author.<br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-16918614425206639242010-08-31T09:21:00.003-04:002010-09-02T10:20:59.209-04:00Great Round Up of Resources for Children's WritersOne of the things I enjoy about coaching people is providing resources. Sometimes, all someone needs is just that missing bit of information to be able to soar with their book project. Recently, I came across a website that offers way more than a bit of information for children's writers. Logically, it's called <a href="http://resourcesforchildrenswriters.blogspot.com/2009/08/do-you-want-to-get-published.html">Resources for Children's Writers</a> and there's a ton of useful stuff, everything from writing to agents to publishing.<br /><br />Also, don't forget to take a peek at the rest of her site too. Any time you visit another writer's site, I recommend taking a quick look around. You may find design ideas, things you want to try, things you might want to avoid and, of course, marketing ideas. In general, writers are a bunch that are willing to share and help out so take advantage (in the good sense) whenever you have the opportunity.<br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-77018874445204367672010-08-24T09:53:00.003-04:002010-08-24T12:20:42.923-04:00Are You Providing a Path?A question for you today-once someone has a copy of your book, can they find you if they want to?<br /><br />For example, you have a website (you do right?), and you want people to go there maybe for more information about you or other products you have. If they have a book in hand, is it easy for them to find your <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">URL</span>? Hint-Many people flip to the back cover to find it.<br /><br />Here's another scenario: maybe they haven't thought about looking for you even though they like what they've read so far. This time you need to entice them a bit, you want them to go to your site because you have lots more to offer. If they're not looking, how do you get them there? One way is to include a page, likely in the back, that flat out asks them to visit! You'll also give them a few good reasons to do so. Maybe they'll find updates on your blog, where you'll be speaking or what other products you have that they'll enjoy too.<br /><br />Don't rely on the "because it's there, they will come theory". That doesn't work very often. Instead, give them the trail of bread crumbs to follow, provide a clear path to your front door. Making it easy for your audience to do business with you is a win-win all around.<br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-21218782655461915982010-08-11T19:16:00.002-04:002010-08-11T19:49:10.862-04:00Survey SaysWhether you are in the planning/writing stage of your book or marketing your little heart out, surveys can be a very helpful tool.<br /><br />If you're planning or writing, finding exactly what you audience is looking for (mainly for non-fiction) allows you to make the book more attractive and salable. If you want to create your own survey, Survey Monkey.com is a popular choice. If you blog here on Blogger.com there's an add on that allows you to put a survey right on your blog and it's pretty easy to use.<br /><br />Another way to use surveys is to look at those you hear about or read online through the lens of how it might help you with book marketing. For example, a survey was done called "How religious is your state?" The results rank the states in various categories pertaining to faith as well as an overall ranking. If you have a Christian book <a href="http://creationinspirations.com/book/">(like I do)</a> knowing which areas may be most receptive to is a useful tool if you want to do mailings or schedule visits etc.<br /><br />Are you aware of other surveys that could be helpful to other authors? Please share!<br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-34402531901466153922010-08-07T12:02:00.003-04:002010-08-07T12:27:56.713-04:00Have You Been Thinking About It?Have you been thinking about hiring me as your publishing coach? For those of you who may not know, one of my areas of expertise is helping authors solidify their publishing plans. Do you understand your options? Do you need some direction in choosing a good path? I can help with all of that. In addition, I do developmental editing as an extra pair of eyes for your non-fiction manuscript, helping to make sure your work is clear, flows well and really speaks to the audience you're trying to reach. Note: I only edit Non-fiction, but coaching is open to most any genre (exceptions are anything considered "adult" or excessively violent).<br /><br />I truly enjoy doing both of these things and please know that I consider it such an honor to be a part of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">someone's</span> publishing journey.<br /><br />Have you been thinking about it? There's no time like the present! It's time to get on the right path and whip that manuscript in tip top shape.<br /><br />One more thing, my business model is going to be changing over the next few months. It's highly likely that I will not offer the exact same services as I grow and look to serve you in new and exciting ways. If you want one of the basically <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ala</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">carte</span>' style services I offer now, don't hesitate too long.<br /><br />Ready to go? Contact me via the Publishing Answers.com <a href="http://www.publishinganswers.com/contact.php5">contact page</a> and let's get things rolling!<br /><br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-85612911733088328072010-07-24T11:34:00.005-04:002010-07-24T15:46:22.113-04:00Book Proposal Help from Publishing Company CEOThere's no doubt about it, getting an agent and then getting a publisher to take on your book is becoming harder and harder. One big reason for this is all of the uncertainty that's going on in publishing today. For example, just a few of the questions publishers are wringing their hands over include: What kinds of books will people continue to pay for and what price point will work? Will e-books gain market share and will they help or hurt sales and profits? And of course, the big one, how can we continue to make a profit?<br /><br />With all that being the case, publishers aren't taking huge risks on unknowns. New writers can still get published (more likely with smaller publishers) just realize the writing has to be top notch and then some. But before anyone will ever notice your writing, your book proposal will have to grab them and make them take interest.<br /><br />So how do figure out how to do that? CEO of Thomas Nelson Publishing Michael Hyatt offers a lot of help in <a href="http://michaelhyatt.com/products/ebook-writing-a-winning-book-proposal">his two e-book</a><a href="http://michaelhyatt.com/products/ebook-writing-a-winning-book-proposal">s</a> that I just discovered. There's one for fiction proposals and one for non-fiction. They're based on decades of experience in the publishing world and his generous spirit. If writing a great book proposal is on your list to do before the year is out I'm sure these books would be worth checking out.<br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-80212137616640753802010-07-05T11:12:00.003-04:002010-07-05T11:22:59.709-04:00I just came across<a href="http://www.chrisbrogan.com/author-social-media/"> this excellent post by Chris Brogan</a> which provides a nice list of how to use sites social media like <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Facebook</span> or a blog if you have something to promote. Just having a presence and sharing bits and pieces from your day is far from the whole story.<br /><br />The big take away point is that selling today is mostly about connecting with people. I'm sure you, like your customers, are weary of being bombarded by advertising. It's always been around of course, but with as technology gave us more options, it also gave us the ability to get messages and information, good, bad, useful, useless 24/7/365. We're overwhelmed more often than not. That's why we rarely listen, or give up our valuable attention anymore -unless we connect. That's why "social" media is named the way it is. It's about people connecting to people, sharing what they have to offer and hopefully enriching each other's lives.<br /><br />How have you used sites like <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Facebook</span> or Twitter or a blog to connect with your readers and potential readers? Let us know your success stories (however it is you define success).<br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-71729801364251284112010-06-22T20:08:00.004-04:002010-06-24T11:42:58.572-04:00Why Bother?No matter what kind of book you want to write or have written, at some point in the process you likely had the thought above-why bother? Whether you have a book about Cajun cooking, how to do well on tests, a mystery novel, or a picture book featuring cuddly critters there are hundreds, if not thousands already out there.<br /><br />Why bother? The short answer is because you're you and nobody else, no one else's<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"></span> voice or story is exactly the same. Two quotes that exemplify this came from two different sources that I respect greatly over the last few days:<br /><br />1. There are more people out there, waiting to hear from you, who can hear only from you, than you can ever get to in your lifetime- Jeff Herring (Article Marketing & Social Networking expert)<br /><br /><img src="file:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/Cheryl/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot.png" alt="" /><img src="file:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/Cheryl/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot-1.png" alt="" />2. People online need and want what you do, the way you do it-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Dawud</span> Miracle (Website Consultant, Small Biz Marketing Expert)<br /><br />So does this mean just because you write your unique whatever it is "they" will come & buy? No, it will still take a lot of hard work, especially on the marketing side because you still have to help your audience find your book/product. <br /><br />What it does mean though is that your message is needed by someone. Maybe it's one, ten or a thousand people, but someone needs it. Your goal, go find them and tell them.<br /><br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-14142968587394711342010-06-07T19:27:00.004-04:002010-06-07T20:25:56.707-04:00New Keyword ToolIf you write non-fiction, or if you have a website for your book (you do don't you?), even if it's fiction, I hope you are familiar with the term "keywords". Just in case you aren't, keywords are those words and short phrases people type into search engines. The search engine then looks for them on websites as they try to match a request for information. Keywords are also the basis for the ads that show up on the side of the results page. Basically, in the world of the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Internet</span>, keywords are everywhere and if you want to attract visitors you need to have at least a basic grasp of how they work and where/when you need to use them.<br /><br />Over the years, there have been a variety of tools that help people figure out the most popular keywords are on any given subject. That's important to know because if your website has those popular words in the right places, it will come up high in a search. If you write or post and article on a blog, directory, etc. the same applies.<br /><br />Today, I found a new tool that works a little differently called<a href="http://labs.wordtracker.com/keyword-questions"> </a><a href="http://labs.wordtracker.com/keyword-questions/questions?seed=publish&commit=Search">Keyword Questions </a>It appears to be a new variation from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Wordtracker</span>. It's different in that when you put in a topic or potential keyword, it generates a list of recent questions posed by searchers rather than just phrases.<br /><br />How does this help you? Type in the topic of your current book or book you're planning to write. Here are just a few ways to use the search results:<br /><br />1. How many of the popular questions are you addressing? If not many, are you sure people have a need or desire for what you're offering?<br /><br />2. Pose and answer one or two of the questions within your back cover blurb and use that copy on summary pages on Amazon etc.<br /><br />3. Make sure your website utilizes the questions or keywords within the questions in the appropriate places including in the text.<br /><br />4. Even if you write fiction, you may be able to enter locations or other central themes of your book and see what people are talking about and also get blog posts or ideas for hot topics to weave into the story.<br /><br />What are your keywords & why?<br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-30559532933852794452010-05-24T20:32:00.002-04:002010-05-24T20:40:54.725-04:00Critiqued by an AgentThanks to the wonderful Inter-web, it's much easier these days to know what's going on in the minds of agents and editors. What do they want? What do they consider good writing? Is my work anywhere near good enough? Several agents host blogs that answer these kinds of questions and more.<br /><br />One of those agents is Nathan <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Bransford</span>. Recently, he started a neat little feature called Page Critique Monday. He chooses a sample submitted by a reader and marks it up (with red even) to give at least a peek into what makes good writing. Though fiction is much more subjective than non-fiction, the first couple of examples show basic skills that every fiction writer needs to accomplish. You can find this week's <a href="http://blog.nathanbransford.com/2010/05/page-critique-monday_24.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+NathanBransford+%28Nathan+Bransford+-+Literary+Agent%29&utm_content=My+Yahoo">example here</a>.<br /><br />BTW, if you write non-fiction instead and you could use a critique/content editing of your work, that's something I can help with. Contact me via my form at <a href="http://www.publishinganswers.com/services.php">my website</a> and let's see if we can get your project to the next level.<br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-37930599000437759312010-05-06T20:05:00.003-04:002010-05-06T20:47:39.179-04:00Pitch a PairWhen I saw this article at the <a href="http://blogs.publishersweekly.com/blogs/shelftalker/?p=806"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Shelftalker</span> Blog</a> I was immediately impressed by the simple, yet creative book marketing idea it portrays. In a nutshell, an author who wrote a book about salamanders and she let a bookstore know about it. It was such a great fit for the area (that has a lot of salamanders) the bookstore decided to host not only the author, but a naturalist who could bring live salamanders to the event as well. They did a presentation together, a total win win all around for the author, the kids, the nature center and the bookstore.<br /><br />Whether you are trying to entice a group or venue to host you as an author, think bigger, think beyond one book one author. This author was blessed to have the bookstore so excited that they did the legwork to expand the event themselves, but it won't always be that easy for everyone. It will be more likely that you'll need to at least have tentative ideas (make sure they'll fly if you pitch them) so that the host understands you're trying to eliminate as much hassle as possible.<br /><br />Have you ever successfully paired up with someone else or pitched a full event around your book? Hope you'll share and inspire the rest of us.<br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-68609761114984692382010-04-27T20:40:00.007-04:002010-04-28T20:17:52.678-04:00A Million Titles PublishedAccording to RR <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Bowker</span>, the company that compiles and tracks publishing stats, more than one million authors saw their books published in 2009. Though some might be updates of established titles or reprints of titles in public domain, most of the titles are new. Besides that, at least half of those titles were produced by small or micro-publishers (like me) who utilize POD technology.<br /><br />Think about that for just a minute. If someone wants to buy a new, current book, there are a million titles to pick from. Then there's the hundreds of thousands from 2008, 2007 etc. etc. Then there are the classics that have been on the shelf for decades. Even for the most avid reader and book lover, choosing could become a daunting task.<br /><br />What does that mean for you the author or author to-be? Whether you are published traditionally, via a "self-publishing/POD" company or independently, if you want to sell books you need to understand you are one voice among thousands.<br /><br />If you're writing just to write or for friends/family, not a problem. But, if you wish to sell books, to get <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">anyone's</span> attention at all, you and your work must stand out in a big way. "Publish it and they will come" could not be further from the truth for the vast majority of writers and books. There's a lot more to it these days.<br /><br />Not trying to scare you or discourage you from trying to get a book out. On the contrary, this is the reality of today's publishing world and not being informed is, in my opinion, one of the quickest ways to failure. Learn as much as you can about your craft, put the "wow factor" into your book from the beginning, be a student of marketing and you'll have a much greater chance at success.<br /><br />Lastly, if you like numbers and want to see how the million breaks down by category etc. you can find the full article at<a href="http://www.bowker.com/index.php/press-releases/616-bowker-reports-traditional-us-book-production-flat-in-2009"> www.bowker.com </a><br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-13450622321256092902010-04-13T19:48:00.004-04:002010-04-13T20:01:30.960-04:00Are We Having Fun...Still?When is the last time you really enjoyed writing-your writing? Do you finish a section, an article or a few lines and get joy out of it occasionally, sometimes, often? Rarely? If the answer is toward the rarely scale, that's not good and it's probably time to step back and figure out why.<br /><br />Even if you must write to make a living, hopefully, more often than not, you like what you're doing. Few of us are lucky enough to love every bit of work we do, and there is a reason it's called <span style="font-style: italic;">work</span>, but with at least some frequency, when we use our gift, it should bring us happiness, joy, maybe a laugh, or at least a job well done, accomplished feeling.<br /><br />Author Dee Stewart posted about this whole idea the other day on <a href="http://aratus.typepad.com/tma/2010/04/contagious-joy-writing-series.html">The Master's Artist blog</a> and it made me stop and think about which of my writing I like best (my newest book) and why I stopped writing a newsletter (I really didn't enjoy it, could do something else instead). Take a peak at what she has to say then I hope you'll come back and share what makes writing fun for you.<br /><br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-84748928418578845832010-04-05T19:09:00.002-04:002010-04-05T20:24:26.472-04:00Authors and IllustratorsI recently had a mini coaching call with a new author and thought I'd share the information here as well. One of her questions was in regard to illustrations. She loves the illustrations a relative did for the children's book she's written and pretty much assumed that they could be used when she got the book published.<br /><br />These are just a couple of the tips I gave her:<br /><br />1. Most traditional publishers have their own team of illustrators and generally match an author with one of them. It is the exception rather than the rule for an author and illustrator to be accepted for publication together.<br /><br />2. (If going pay to publish/POD or Independent) If the artwork was drawn/painted on paper not using a computer design program, a graphic designer would have to make them print ready by scanning them in and adjusting as needed. Cost would depend on how well the initial scans processed the artwork.<br /><br />3. Soft cover is the only affordable way to print color at this point for small publishers who can't do thousands of copies at a time. Cost per copy is still fairly high though so that must be a consideration when setting cover price and projecting profit.<br /><br />Could you use personalized coaching to move your book project along? We can do a "preview" session of about 15 min at no cost by phone or a brief email chat to and then you can decide if a full hour session or more would be beneficial. Contact me via my contact form at publishinganswers.com or find me at Facebook.com/cherylpickett.<br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075829707420220642.post-27354913170697654372010-03-24T20:52:00.002-04:002010-03-24T20:58:24.961-04:00What Does a Traditional Publisher Do for New Authors?The world of publishing is changing almost on a minute by minute basis. Marketing strategies that used to work even a few years ago, probably don't now so publishers are shifting their risks and strategies as well.<br /><br />Newbie author Kevin Daum is currently sharing his experience with a major publisher. I think it's worth following along to get a view of what's happening in the real world. True, it's only one person's experience, but it is still more helpful than looking at the careers of author's who've been at it a long time.<br /><br />You can find the link <a href="http://http://kevindaum.com/awesomeroar/">here</a>. Anything surprise you? Is it what you expected? More, less? Interested in your thoughts as always.<br /><br />Good Writing & God Bless,<br />Cheryl PickettCheryl Picketthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14955351545236931616noreply@blogger.com0