Previously, I discussed how to discern between “Good Publishers, Bad Publishers, and the Difference.” If you missed it, click here for the article.
Over the past 10 years, I’ve trained nearly 500 authors, including several New York Times bestsellers (see my client list). I’ve also been hired by numerous publishing houses to help coach first-time authors, teach mid-list authors new marketing techniques, and revitalize key franchise book brands. During my consulting work, though, I’ve listened to complaints from publishers about authors who routinely miss key deadlines, fail to build their marketing platform, and make unreasonable demands. But, there are also authors who publishers adore and receive greater benefits in return.
If you’re a publisher evaluating a new author to sign, or if you are an author who wants to know the difference between you and your peers, these are 10 tell-tale signs:
1. Good authors blame themselves when a book launch doesn’t achieve the desired results.
Bad authors blame a weak book launch on the publisher, the readers, the economy, etc.
2. Good authors solicit beta readers to ensure their finished manuscript is top quality.
Bad authors avoid seeking input and constructive criticism from their target audience.
3. Good authors steadily build their email list as a primary channel to drive book sales.
Bad authors never build a list and have to start over with each new book launch.
4. Good authors view marketing as their duty and the publisher’s efforts as gravy.
Bad authors expect publishers to do all of the marketing work for them.
5. Good authors keep their book details updated on Amazon where most books are sold.
Bad authors never realize that updating their books on Amazon is critical to success.
6. Good authors listen to their fans and write what readers want to buy.
Bad authors ignore their readers and churn out books for themselves.
7. Good authors buy Facebook ads to reach new readers and expand their audience.
Bad authors waste money boosting Facebook posts to reach people they already know.
8. Good authors treat writing books as a business and earn business-level results.
Bad authors write books like a hobby and wonder why they get lackluster results.
9. Good authors give away large amounts of free content to attract new readers.
Bad authors hoard their content and wonder why their platform is so small.
10. Good authors know there is little money in books and create extra revenue streams.
Bad authors expect to write one book, hit the bestseller lists, and live like a millionaire.
What type of author are you?
FYI – If you have a sensitive personality or think using words like “good” and “bad” are a form of microaggression, you are welcome to substitute other words to your heart’s content, such as “smart,” “unwise,” etc. Just don’t miss my point that there are categorical differences in the way authors behave that directly affect their book sales and career.
P.S. – My Book Marketing Master Class is designed to teach any author how to overcome the misconceptions listed above, take control over marketing your books, and become a truly successful author. Click here for details.
