Many, many questions come up when you’re writing a book.
Have you noticed?
When you’re ready to publish, you might have even more questions.
Such as, what is essential for getting a book deal?
For non-fiction writers, it comes down to creating a compelling book proposal.
A book proposal? you ask. Not the actual book?
Yes. If I had to name just one thing you need, it is the proposal.
A proposal contains many of the essential elements that a good book needs to be successful. Including good writing.
Can’t I get by without one? You may be thinking. I’m writing a book after all, not a sales pitch.
I understand this question.
You really do need a proposal
Many people feel that the proposal will slow down the most important thing — the actual writing and publishing of the book.
Other people fear that dipping a toe into any kind of pitch writing will interfere with their creative inspiration and process.
You DO have to make good decisions on behalf of your writing process, no question.
But, a proposal also helps you as a writer.
How?
- Book proposals help authors conceptualize their ideas and solidify what this book IS. This can save you a ton of time and effort right out of the gate.
- A book proposal becomes your who, what, when, where, and how of your book. It prepares you know how to answer the inevitable questions from friends, family, and interested strangers (agents?) about what you’re working on.
- It also orients agents and editors to what you have done, who you are, and what you intend to do as a writer. In fact, you need to know this yourself so you can feel confident in those key professional conversations.
A proposal asks you to answer the hard questions — before you trip over yourself in those important moments when you want to shine.
So, instead of viewing your proposal as an obstacle to overcome, see it as the bridge between you (and your inspiration to
write a book) and becoming an author in the wider world.
Crossing this bridge will take you from giddy ambition to grounded confidence.
It will help you make savvy decisions at every stage of your book publishing journey.
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If you’re ready to cross the bridge from book-writer-in-secret to author-in-the-public-eye, get ready to create your book proposal!
In the meantime, check out my quick IGTV videos about what goes into making an excellent proposal.