In order to determine the potential for a product, you develop a business plan. The book proposal is a business plan for a book.<\/p>\n
Even before writing a book, there are certain things that you need to know. And this is true whether you\u2019re writing a memoir, novel, children\u2019s storybook, chapbook, historical, how-to, self-help or coffee table book. If you are seeking some measure of success with your book project, you must find out:<\/p>\n
\u2022\tIs there a market for this book?
\n\u2022\tWho is your audience and how will you reach them?
\n\u2022\tWhat titles compete with yours?
\n\u2022\tHow does your book differ from others on this topic?
\n\u2022\tWho is your target audience and how can you reach them?
\n\u2022\tWhat are your publishing options?
\n\u2022\tWhat are the possible consequences of your publishing choices?
\n\u2022\tWhat are your responsibilities as a published author?
\n\u2022\tHow will you promote your book once it is published? <\/p>\n
A well designed book proposal will answer these important questions. It will also help you to determine:<\/p>\n
\u2022\tHow realistic is your vision for this book?
\n\u2022\tWhat is the best way to organize your book?
\n\u2022\tHow can you make it more salable?<\/p>\n
Establish Your Platform Before Writing the Book<\/strong> \u2022\tStart writing articles or nonfiction stories for national magazines.<\/p>\n \u2022\tBecome columnist or regular contributor to a website, newsletter or magazine related to your topic. <\/p>\n \u2022\tSeek an endorsement for your book or support for your project from a well-known national organization.<\/p>\n \u2022\tEstablish and nurture connections with high profile people in your field.<\/p>\n \u2022\tBorrow, buy and\/or build a mailing list.<\/p>\n \u2022\tBuild a website and start a blog related to your book. Offer something of value and promote, promote, promote.<\/p>\n \u2022\tEstablish a social media presence.<\/p>\n \u2022\tTake a class or read several good books about promotion in general and book promotion in particular.<\/p>\n \u2022\tBecome familiar with appropriate talk TV and radio shows nationwide and how to land interviews.<\/p>\n \u2022\tDo something newsworthy.<\/p>\n Keep in mind that a book proposal is for you\u2014to help you determine whether your book is a good idea or not. And then, if you plan to seek a traditional publisher for your project, you will be required to write a book proposal for him. <\/p>\n A Nonfiction Book Proposal should include<\/strong>: A Fiction Book Proposal should include?<\/strong> For much more about writing a book proposal, order my book, The Right Way to Write, Publish and Sell Your Book<\/em> http:\/\/www.matilijapress.com\/rightway.html<\/a> or How to Write a Successful Book Proposal in 8 Days or Less<\/em><\/strong>, http:\/\/www.matilijapress.com\/bookproposal.html<\/a><\/p>\n
\nYour platform is your following\u2014your way of attracting readers. Here\u2019s what I recommend you do before bringing out your book.<\/p>\n
\nCover letter
\nTitle page
\nTable of contents
\nSynopsis or overview
\nMarketing section (Who is your target audience?)
\nPromotional ideas (Include your platform.)
\nMarket Analysis or comparison of competitive works.
\nAbout the author (What makes you the best person to write this book?)
\nChapter outline
\nSample chapters
\nSamples of illustrations, photographs, etc. <\/p>\n
\nCover letter
\nSynopsis or overview
\nPromotional plan
\nAbout the author<\/p>\n