What Should You Do Next After Writing a Book?

Writing a book is a significant accomplishment, but it is just the beginning. To turn your written story into a successful project, you need to follow a series of steps. This guide will walk you through the next steps after you finish your book, ensuring that your journey to publication and beyond is as smooth as possible.

Revise and Edit

Once you have completed your manuscript, the next step is to revise and edit it carefully. This step is crucial to ensuring that your book has the best possible content structure and flow. Consider hiring a professional editor for a thorough review to refine your narrative and dialogue. Additionally, read through your manuscript yourself to spot any pacing issues or inconsistencies in the storyline.

Beta Readers

It's essential to get feedback from other eyes before finalizing your manuscript. Share it with a few trusted beta readers who can provide valuable insights into the content pacing and overall impact. Their honest opinions will help you identify areas for improvement and make your book more engaging for readers.

Proofreading

Now that you have addressed the content and pacing, focus on the details. Ensure your manuscript is free from grammatical errors and typos. A professional proofreader can help with this, making sure that your final product is polished and error-free. Attention to these small details can significantly enhance the reader's experience.

Decide on Publishing

Traditional Publishing

If you choose to go the traditional publishing route, research literary agents and publishers that align with your genre. Prepare a query letter and a compelling pitch to introduce your book to potential agents and publishers. This step can take some time, so be prepared to put in the effort to find the right fit for your manuscript.

Self-Publishing

For those who prefer to take control of their book's journey, self-publishing is an excellent option. Research platforms such as Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, IngramSpark, and others to explore your options. Each platform has specific guidelines, so make sure to prepare your manuscript according to their requirements. Self-publishing can be a rewarding choice, giving you full creative control over your work.

Create a Marketing Plan

As an author, you need a solid marketing plan to promote your book. This can include social media marketing, building a website, email newsletters, book signings, and virtual events. Identify your target audience and tailor your marketing efforts to reach them effectively. Social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook can be powerful tools for connecting with potential readers.

Build an Author Platform

Engage with your potential readers through social media, blogs, or newsletters. Establishing a strong author platform can generate interest in your book and create a community of supporters. Regularly post updates about your writing process, share behind-the-scenes stories, and interact with your followers to build a loyal following.

Design Cover and Formatting

If you choose to self-publish, investing in a professional cover design is essential. A visually appealing cover can make a significant impact on potential readers. Additionally, ensure that your book is formatted correctly for both digital and print versions. This step ensures that your book is ready to be enjoyed by readers regardless of how they access it.

Launch Your Book

Plan a launch event, either virtual or in-person, to celebrate the release of your book. Promoting your book on launch day can generate excitement and attract readers. Utilize social media, press releases, and other promotional tools to announce your book's release and attract attention.

Gather Reviews

Encourage readers to leave reviews on platforms like Goodreads and Amazon. Reviews can significantly impact your book's visibility and credibility. Positive reviews can help increase sales and attract new readers, while constructive feedback can help you refine your work for your next project.

Continue Writing

Finally, continue to write and develop your skills as a writer. Outlining your next project or setting new goals can help you maintain your momentum and ensure that your career as an author is a long and fulfilling one.

Personal Reflections

After completing a book, it’s important to re-integrate yourself into your family life. The isolation of book writing can sometimes vacate your normal position in your family. Set aside time to reconnect with your loved ones. Once your writing session ends, it's time to go to bed. Following a writing session, I usually finish my book and move on to a single editing pass the next day, followed by proofreading. Depending on how many proofing reads are needed, the book gets published sometime within the next 2 weeks.