4 Key Strategies For Long Term Success In Publishing

I was discussing this with one of my authors a couple of days ago. Her particular publisher is going through some "growing pains" and of course many of the other writers she works with at the same publisher completely stressing out, getting on social media, creating more of a crisis, and developing conspiracy theories that are near science fiction level. As we talked about this, she noted that some of these writers knew that they would be "next on the chopping block."

But as I talked to my author, I noted that there were essentially 4 things that would keep her safe.

1. Continue to write amazing books. Look, the reality of the situation is that publishers will not eliminate people who are producing and producing well written books. OK, if the entire company goes bankrupt that is a different story, but when the company is doing fine, those who write well will get to stay. Along the same lines, those who continually write well will get those added perks such as: top billing on duel releases, the better art directors creating your covers, the better placements for books during the year, etc. Always strive to make sure each book you write is the best. I would also add here, meeting those deadlines and not being the person who always has a "reason" for needing more time on a book. Meet deadlines and, if at all possible, get those deadlines in early.
   
2. Show growth in your writing and take advice well. Publishers are not looking for someone who just does the same thing over and over again. If you are a "one trick pony" don't expect those perks. Show that with each book, you try something new, you push yourself, you move forward using current trends, and you shift with the market. I always think of those in the music industry: The Rolling Stones, Aerosmith, Madonna, etc. Think of how long they have lasted? The other element is taking advice. If your editor says to go left and you were certain going right was the better approach, stop and think. Discuss the situation. The editor probably has some data that says her direction is probably right.
   
   
   
3. Stay out of the politics. This is important. You might think you are "just putting in your two-cents worth" but the reality is, if you are getting involved with these discussions that are toxic, you would be connected with those that are really toxic. I am not saying to disassociate yourself from the rest of the world. You can listen. Just keep your mouth shut. It is also important to remember I am not just talking about social media here either. If you are at a conference, know there are other people in the room. People listen. People remember.
   
4. Play nice. This one is pretty simple. If someone gets a contract and you didn't. Compliment them. If someone gets a great review and, even if you hated the book, be nice. Remember the speech from ROADHOUSE by Patrick Swayze? Dalton says, “If somebody gets in your face and calls you a (expletive deleted), I want you to be nice. Ask him to walk. Be nice. If he won’t walk, walk him. But be nice. If you can’t walk him, one of the others will help you, and you'll both be nice." You do the same thing. 

This has nothing to do with sales. This has nothing to do with covers or writing strategies. It is about being professional.