Some authors hesitate approaching someone who has more experience in the publishing field than they do. They don’t want to bother the experts. Others have no problem trying to glean free advice from professionals.
I think most of you know that I am approachable. I’m open to questions via email at anytime and I will generally respond promptly. I do have some pet peeves, though and I imagine that most professionals will agree with the following list of dos and don’ts.
1: Unless invited to do so, don’t call on the phone. Most writing/publishing professionals closely and frequently monitor their email. Those who don’t—shame on them. There are people out there who could use a little help from time to time.
2: Don’t challenge the comments/advice of the professional. Sure, you can ask questions and request clarity. But, after someone takes time to respond to you in great detail, don’t come back with, “Well, I did that and it doesn’t work,” or “I don’t agree with you,” or “My friend signed with that company and she’s happy with them, so you don’t know what you’re talking about.”
3: Always, always, always acknowledge the professional who has given his or her time to respond. I can’t tell you how many people never respond at all after I’ve given of my time and expertise to answer their simple or complex questions. Even if you don’t like the answer (many don’t, because it often requires effort on the author’s part), at least say, “Thank you.” Acknowledge that you did receive the information.
4: Don’t ask for an opinion if you don’t want to hear the truth. Authors often ask me to take a look at their manuscripts or their completed books. Most of them are interested in my opinion no matter what I might say. They want to provide the best product they can to their audience. Others, however, just want to receive compliments. I’ve even had authors challenge my comments by saying, “Well, other people love this book,” or they use up several paragraphs to explain the concept of their book or the gist of their story—as if I didn’t get it.
There is no law that says you have to agree with any expert, but it would behoove you to at least consider what they have to say. Listen and learn. Or crash and burn.
When I critique or evaluate a book or manuscript, I try to do so using compliments along with any called for criticism. I attempt to offer suggestions and perspective that the author might not have considered. When an author responds to my comments immediately, using a challenging tone, or attempting to explain himself, I know that he is not listening. And it’s too bad. He may be missing out on a good opportunity.
Sometimes I hear from someone months or years after they initially contacted me. I love hearing/reading them say, “You were right.” Although, that isn’t as heartwarming as hearing that the author, who was reluctant to consider writing a book proposal or who didn’t plan to promote his book, now understands the importance of these aspects of publishing. Someone who scoffed at my insistence that he study the publishing industry before getting involved, or that he hire an attorney to go over a self-publishing contract with him or that he more carefully consider the audience for his book on the history of dental instruments, may contact me saying he now gets it. I love when that happens.
Do you ever contact experts in your field? Do you sometimes need the perspective or information from a gardening authority, educator, professional chef, more knowledgeable therapist or professional builder, for example? I can’t promise that any of them will respond to your request, but if they do—remember this post and your manners.
• Acknowledge and accept their offerings with grace.
• Ask for clarity only—do not challenge the expert.
• Say thank you.
Many of your questions are answered in my latest book, “Promote Your Book, Over 250 Proven, Low-Cost Tips and Techniques for the Enterprising Author” (Allworth Press, 2011). Order your copy today: http://amzn.to/oe56Ia