It’s never too soon to think about your author web site or blog. Check out these 12 authors’ web sites for ideas and inspiration.

There is a lot of questioning by upcoming authors about whether to get an agent and look for a traditional publisher or to self publish…We now have the technology for short runs of books, so that anyone can publish their material. This availability has opened up the publishing world to anyone who can get their thoughts down on paper. What does this mean for you as an author? What is the difference between traditional and self-publishing?

It’s easier than ever to feature your books on your web site and blog. Learn how to add a fantastic Amazon.com slideshow in 10 easy steps.

The advantage of a big literary agency firm is that they probably have a rolodex of thousands of established contacts in the publishing world who can easily get your book into the publishing house if the book is of any quality. The disadvantage is that these agencies usually prefer to work with established best selling authors where they, the agency, will get the most commissions for their effort.

A seasoned writing coach advices writers to know their goals and expectations. Then consider the critical differences related to acceptance, control, upfront costs, turnaround time, book store presence, promotional and selling, and royalties.

When authors finish their books, they may have ideas for how they want their books to look; however, too often authors either over-communicate with their book designers, or they fail to communicate clearly. Here are some tips for preparing your manuscript so it is ready to go to your book design/layout person without your driving him or her crazy. Rewriting Before, Not After, Layout Do not send your book to your book designer until you are absolutely sure it is finished.

As an author, the most important person in your career is you. Self-publishing takes writing into a higher level since it’s you who will spearhead every single detail that makes up your book marketing campaign. However, you should learn to choose a number of allies who will help you all the way to your book’s launching.

With all the hype about how to get published, writers can get caught up in the sizzle of printing and distributing their books. A seasoned writing coach reminds writers to be sure they include the steak–and create a quality book–fit to be published.

Most people, at some time in their lives, have thought of writing a book. But with no way of knowing how to have it published, the idea was usually passed over and forgotten. And the old, frustrating way of trying to become a published author was to first write a book and then start sending out letters and sample chapters to as many agents and publishers as you possibly could. but now, with modern self publishing methods, it’s so much easier.

There are many executives, professionals, and creative individuals who would love to have their book idea published but have little to no knowledge of the publishing industry. Many have no idea how to develop a marketable book concept or how to present themselves or their book projects to literary agents and publishers. And many will waste months or years trying to produce a full manuscript believing that is what publishers expect. If you have a great idea for a nonfiction book, your first step is not to write the entire book, your first effort is to develop a book proposal.