by B Alan Bourgeois

Authors achieve success in many different ways, such as through high book sales or producing exceptional literature. However, there are some common practices that successful authors tend to follow, which any aspiring writer can adopt to increase their chances of success.

Outlined below are ten tips that successful authors have used to reach their goals. While these steps are helpful, they are not exhaustive, and it's important to note that marketing plays a crucial role in achieving success as an author, particularly when it comes to book sales.

The purpose of these ten tips is to provide aspiring authors with a strong foundation to kickstart their writing career. By incorporating these key elements, writers can set themselves up for success in the competitive world of publishing.

1. Write Regularly: Successful authors make writing a habit and write consistently, even if it's just for a short period each day.

2. Read Widely: Reading widely helps to improve your writing skills, enhances creativity, and helps to stay informed on what’s new in the industry.

3. Build a Strong Online Presence: In today's digital age, a strong online presence is essential. This includes having a professional website, active social media profiles, and engaging with your audience.

4. Network with Other Writers and Industry Professionals: Networking with other writers and industry professionals can help you stay up to date with industry trends and provide opportunities for collaboration.

5. Attend Conferences and Events: Attending conferences and events can provide opportunities to learn from experts, meet industry professionals, and make valuable connections.

6. Work with an Editor: A professional editor can provide valuable feedback and help refine your work to make it the best it can be.

7. Embrace Marketing and Promotion: Successful authors understand that marketing and promotion are essential to selling books. This includes running targeted ads, leveraging social media platforms, and creating content to build an audience.

8. Be open to Criticism: No author is perfect, and constructive criticism can help you grow as a writer. Successful authors are open to feedback and use it to improve their craft.

9. Be Persistent: Success as an author doesn't happen overnight. It takes time, effort, and persistence. Successful authors don't give up in the face of rejection or failure.

10. Stay True to Your Vision: Successful authors stay true to their voice and their vision. They write what they're passionate about, and they don't compromise their style or their message to please others.

To learn more about the above items, you can get a copy of the eBook Top Ten Things Successful Authors Do at BourgeoisMedia.com, or get a print, eBook or Audiobook copy at your favorite bookstore.

Here are some tips for authors to prepare for and make 2024 a successful year:

• Set Clear Goals: Define your writing goals for the year. Whether it's completing a novel, publishing a certain number of articles, or reaching a specific word count, having clear objectives will guide your efforts.
• Create a Writing Schedule: Establish a consistent writing routine. Whether you prefer to write in the morning, evening, or during lunch breaks, having a dedicated time for writing helps maintain discipline and consistency.
• Stay Informed: Keep up with industry trends, literary news, and changes in the publishing landscape. Understanding the market can help you tailor your work to current demands and opportunities.
• Embrace Technology: Leverage technology for writing, editing, and publishing. Explore writing tools, social media platforms, and self-publishing options that can enhance your efficiency and reach a wider audience.
• Network and Collaborate: Engage with other writers, attend literary events, and participate in online writing communities. Networking can provide valuable insights, support, and opportunities for collaboration.
• Continue Learning: Stay committed to improving your craft. Attend writing workshops, take online courses, or read books on writing to enhance your skills and stay inspired.
• Build an Online Presence: Strengthen your online presence through social media, a personal website, or a blog. Share your writing journey, connect with readers, and promote your work to build a loyal audience.
• Diversify Your Writing: Explore different genres, writing formats, or platforms. Diversifying your portfolio can open up new opportunities and reach a broader audience.
• Plan for Marketing: Develop a marketing strategy for your work. Whether you're traditionally published or self-published, having a plan to promote your books is crucial for success.
• Take Care of Yourself: Prioritize self-care. Writing can be mentally and emotionally demanding, so make sure to balance your creative pursuits with activities that rejuvenate you.
• Adaptability: Be open to adapting your plans. The writing landscape is dynamic, and being flexible in response to changes can be essential for long-term success.
• Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements along the way. Whether it's finishing a draft, getting published, or receiving positive feedback, recognizing your accomplishments can fuel your motivation.

By combining these strategies, authors can position themselves for a successful and fulfilling year in 2024.

Becoming a successful author is no easy feat, and it often requires years of hard work, dedication, and persistence. One of the most important factors in achieving success as an author is the ability to support oneself in the venture.

Indie authors, in particular, often face unique challenges in the publishing industry. Without the backing of a traditional publishing house, indie authors must take on all aspects of the publishing process themselves, including editing, cover design, and marketing. This can be a daunting task, but it can also be incredibly rewarding.

Here are some reasons why indie authors or authors in general should support themselves in their venture to become successful authors:

1.           Freedom to create on their own terms

One of the greatest advantages of being an indie author is the freedom to create on their own terms. Without the restrictions imposed by a traditional publishing house, indie authors can write the stories they want to tell, in the style they want to tell them. This can lead to more unique and diverse voices in the literary world.

2.           Control over the publishing process

Indie authors have complete control over the publishing process, from the cover design to the pricing and distribution. This allows them to tailor their marketing strategy to their target audience, experiment with different pricing strategies, and make changes to their book whenever they see fit.

3.           Increased royalties

Traditional publishing houses often take a significant percentage of an author's royalties, sometimes up to 85% of the profits. Indie authors, on the other hand, can keep a larger portion of their royalties, often up to 70% or more. This can be a huge advantage, especially for authors who are just starting out.

4.           Ability to build a personal brand

As an indie author, building a personal brand is key to success. By taking control of their marketing strategy, indie authors can create a unique brand that reflects their writing style and personality. This can help them stand out in a crowded market and attract readers who are looking for something different.

5.           Opportunity to connect with readers

Indie authors often have more opportunities to connect with their readers than traditionally published authors. Through social media, email newsletters, and book signings, indie authors can build a community of dedicated readers who will follow them throughout their writing career.

The key to an authors success is Supporting themselves.  They cannot count on friends, family and others in the publishing world to help them along the path to success.  They must be willing to step up and do what is necessary to succeed.

At Bourgeois Media & Consulting we give authors the tools necessary to help them along their path to success and we do it in a variety of ways.  Our educational programs, our events and access to other programs are all designed to help the author.

As an author, you may wonder if attending book festivals in person is worth the time, effort, and expense. The answer is a resounding "yes." In-person book festivals offer a plethora of benefits that simply cannot be replicated in the virtual space. Here are some reasons why you should attend book festivals in person.

Build Your Network

Book festivals offer an excellent opportunity to meet other authors, industry professionals, and book lovers. Networking is essential to building a career as an author, and attending book festivals can help you expand your circle of contacts. You can connect with other authors who write in your genre, exchange ideas, and discuss writing techniques. You can also meet publishers, literary agents, and other industry professionals who can provide valuable insights and help you navigate the publishing world.

Reach a New Audience

Attending book festivals is an excellent way to reach new readers. Festivals attract book lovers from all walks of life, and they come to discover new authors and books. By attending book festivals, you can introduce your work to a new audience and gain new readers.

Participate in Panels and Workshops

Many book festivals host panels and workshops that cover a variety of topics related to writing, publishing, and marketing. As an author, you can participate in these events and share your expertise with other writers. You can also learn from other authors and industry professionals who are participating in the panels and workshops.

Get Your Books in Front of Readers

Attending book festivals gives you the opportunity to showcase your books and get them in front of potential readers. Many festivals allow authors to sell their books directly to attendees, and this can help you generate sales and build a fan base. You can also sign copies of your book, which is an excellent way to connect with readers and build relationships.,/p>

Find Inspiration

Book festivals are full of inspiration. You can attend talks and readings by your favorite authors, discover new authors and books, and immerse yourself in the world of literature. Attending book festivals can help you stay inspired and motivated to continue writing and pursuing your goals as an author.

Attending book festivals in person is an excellent way to build your network, reach a new audience, participate in panels and workshops, get your books in front of readers, and find inspiration. If you're serious about your career as an author, attending book festivals should be a priority. So, mark your calendars, pack your bags, and get ready to experience the magic of book festivals in person.

Check out the various book festivals that the Authors School of Business plans to attend in the coming years, and see how you can be a part of them in an economical way.  Go to our home page, then click on Services, then click on Marketing Opportunities, then click on Book Festivals to see the list, and click on the ones that interest you.