So You Want to Write a Book . . .

I have a few questions for you.

• Are you writing how-to (prescriptive) nonfiction?

If your answer is no, then I can’t help you.

• Do you have a business that is related to your book and will promote it?

If your answer is no, then I can’t help you.

• Is what you’re writing about proven to work and get results for people?

If your answer is no, I suggest that you focus on that.

• Have you proven that people are interested in what you have to say?

If your answer is no, I suggest that you start sharing your message — publicly.

• Do you have an audience?

If your answer is no, building an email list and social media following should be your top priority.

These are the questions that my team and I ask when people apply to work with us.

It might seem harsh, but I’m trying to help you. Here’s why I ask these questions.

• If you’re writing another kind of book — fiction, narrative nonfiction, memoir, children’s — the advice I give may be unhelpful, even wildly inaccurate. That’s why I suggest folks who are writing other books — or who want to self-publish — unsubscribe. It’s not for me, but rather for you.