Avoid Developing a Difficult Attitude
It is easy for writers to get caught up in
early success in the writing business. Those who do can find
themselves developing an attitude that makes working with them
difficult. Editors are already very busy people, and when one
of their writers becomes excessively demanding, that writer
can find themselves without a contract very quickly.
How You Can Avoid Developing a Difficult Attitude
1. Be realistic about your book's potential for success.
Don't tell everyone about how your unpublished book is going
to have massive sales. You may have written the next
bestseller, but save the "bestselling author attitude" until
you see your book at the top of the charts.
2. Don't bother editors unnecessarily. Endless phone calls
and emails will waste time and tax the patience of most
editors and others in the publishing business.
3. Don't believe everything you read or hear about yourself.
If you have a book out that's racing up the charts, you are
bound to hear lots of flattery. Some of it is grounded in
reality, but some of it comes from people who are hoping you
will help them get to the top.
4. Take constructive criticism gracefully. It's a rare book
that is perfect the first time it is submitted. Editors,
agents, and others in the publishing business know what they
are doing. They also want you to succeed and they generally
have your best interest in mind. Give their suggestions close
consideration.
5. Avoid superiority complexes. Having a writing degree from a
university does not mean that you can't make mistakes.
6. Don't believe that you are your publisher's only book. He
or she has other writers to work with as well. Be
understanding if you have to wait for a response to an email
or phone call. You need a publisher. They don't need you.
7. Don't be a Prima Donna. Don't get caught up in some fantasy
or myth of an author's life. Some writers believe they should
be catered to, which makes life difficult for editors and
publishers.
8. Don't whine. If you have complaints or concerns, think them
through carefully. If you believe your problem is legitimate,
the address it to the appropriate person in your publishing
company.
Reference: "A Dozen Don'ts," by Rich Frishman and Robyn
Freedman Spizman, in Writer's Digest, March 2006
