I have to admit, most authors’ eyes glaze over when I ask them what their vision is for their book. My partner, Brian, is amazed by this. “People put all this time and effort into these books,” he says over and over, “and they do it without having any clue what to do once it’s done.”
I think he’s amazed because he’s not a writer. I know what it is to just have a story to tell, to have a burning need to put pen to paper. And that’s all it take to be a writer — to put pen to paper.
Getting published, especially self published, takes a plan.
One of the first tools I give the authors I work with is our Author’s Questionnaire. It is a great way for them to begin to create a vision, the basis of a plan.
The Author’s Questionnaire helps authors refine their vision for their book. It helps them begin to see what practical issues they will face as they begin to talk to various vendors and experts. For instance, an author of a handbook for new parents might be focused on content — on getting the parenting details right. However, when that same author puts on her publisher’s hat, she needs to think in terms of how readers will use the book, what kind graphics the book will need, and when she needs to have the book in hand.
However, as helpful as the questionnaire is, it can be overwhelming. When you use the Author’s Questionnaire, don’t worry about filling it out completely the first time around. Fill out the form as best you can, then keep it around. Use it to get your thoughts going in a new direction. As you figure more things out, add them to the Questionnaire. Check it occasionally see if you are on track or if you vision has changed.
You can download a copy of the Author’s Questionnaire today and start working on your vision.
