I’m coming up on about six years since I sold my first book, which means I’ve learned a few things. I try to share these every year, but they change from time to time, so without further ado: my top tips for baby authors.
1. Always say thank you. Your publisher. Librarians. Educators. Readers. Everyone.
2. Choose one airline and stick to it. Points, people!
3. Make time for family and friends. They need you, but mostly you need them.
4. TSA precheck is worth every penny.
2. Choose one airline and stick to it. Points, people!
3. Make time for family and friends. They need you, but mostly you need them.
4. TSA precheck is worth every penny.
5. Maybe you're signing a book for the millionth time, but the person on the other end might be getting a book signed for first time. Don't be an asshole.
6. Forgive yourself.
7. See a little bit of every city you visit. Even if it's just a view.
6. Forgive yourself.
7. See a little bit of every city you visit. Even if it's just a view.
8. Always say thank you. Did I already say that? ALWAYS say thank you. You are not more important than a thank you.
9. Look for tax deductions everywhere.
10. Only do the promotional things (swag and social media included) that make you happy.
9. Look for tax deductions everywhere.
10. Only do the promotional things (swag and social media included) that make you happy.
10. Be good to other authors. No matter their status.
11. Read diversely. Promote diversely.
12. Write the next book. The phrase “nothing sells backlist like frontlist” could not be more true.
Lastly: 12. Make friends to have friends. Not connections.
11. Read diversely. Promote diversely.
12. Write the next book. The phrase “nothing sells backlist like frontlist” could not be more true.
Lastly: 12. Make friends to have friends. Not connections.
Thank y’all for all the love on this thread. Also, I can’t count, so add this to your list: hire a trusty accountant. 🤷🏻♀️
