7 Mistakes Guaranteed to Delay Publication

As writers, we know that nothing in the publishing world is actually guaranteed, but more than likely the following mistakes will slow down your quest for publication. How do I know? I’ve made them all! The great thing is, once you realize you’ve fallen into one of these mistakes, you can correct your course and get back to business.

7 Mistakes Guaranteed to Delay Publication

1. Craft Issues

This should go without saying, but do everything you can to learn your craft. There’s no point in trying to submit before your craft is ready. The competition is stiff, and good craft shows.

2. Wrong Posse

Be careful who you surround yourself with, from critique partners to mentors and agents. Allowing the wrong people to speak into your writing life will set you back. Don’t be like the desperate girl at the dance who will dance with absolutely anyone who will look at her twice.

3. Disappearing

There are seasons in life where writing just might not fit in, as in the case of a prolonged illness or tragedy. But disappearing from the writing scene for any length of time will set you back because you won’t be abreast of the latest industry news, and the connections you worked hard to make will fade.

4. Low Production

The fewer manuscripts you produce, the less chance you’ll have to secure a contract. A writer who produces one quality manuscript a year will have a greater shot of publication than someone who writes one book every three years. Yes, a stellar novel takes as long as it takes, but don’t take a long time simply because you’re squandering the time you have.

5. Changing Genres

The genre that is hot today will soon be cold potatoes, so there’s no point in changing just for the market. Of course be aware of industry trends, but changing genres to chase the market will cost time.

6. Rewriting the Same Book

Once you write a book to the best of your ability and submit it, move on. Continuing to rewrite the same book over and over is pointless, unless an industry professional advises you to do so.

7. Scattered Focus

While research, writers groups, classes and platform building matter, it’s way too easy to get caught up in all things writerly, without actually writing. Focus on your manuscripts first, then do all the things that go along with it.

There you have it—the mistakes that will delay publication. By avoiding these, you’ll be that much closer to your publication goals!