Kelly Schuknecht

Summer Writing Goals

Summer is the perfect time to set and accomplish writing goals. Many people have time off work. The extra daylight makes you feel like you have more time in the day. The season is filled with inspiration. Whether you haven’t started your book or your book is already published, here are three ways you can make your writing dreams come true this summer.

1. The new project.

You’ve been dreaming of publishing a book, but you haven’t found the time or motivation. Well, now is the perfect time to start. Commit to the goal of finishing your manuscript by the end of August. Use small daily goals, such as writing for a certain amount of time, to help you achieve your dream.

2. The published book.

Perhaps you have a manuscript that is ready to be published. Now is the perfect time to start the publishing process. Your goals should include:

Research and choose a publisher.
Edit your manuscript.
Start thinking about cover design.

3. The successful book.

If you’ve already published your book, now is the time to focus on marketing. A great marketing plan is the key to a successful book. No one can buy your book if they don’t know it exists. Set marketing goals such as:

Research summer events where you can display (and sell) your book.
Set up and maintain social media pages.
Contact local news sources.

I’d love to know, what are your summer writing goals?

ABOUT KELLY SCHUKNECHT: Kelly Schuknecht is the Vice President of Outskirts Press. In addition to her contributions to the Outskirts Press blog at blog.outskirtspress.com, Kelly and a group of talented marketing experts offer book marketing services, support, and products to not only published Outskirts Press authors, but to all authors and professionals who are interested in marketing their books and/or careers. Learn more about Kelly on her blog at http://kellyschuknecht.com.

Kelly Speaks, Uncategorized

Beijing Book Fair 2014

Book fairs are an excellent way for self-published authors to promote their books and network with industry professionals. The Beijing Book Fair 2014 will take place August 27th through 31st, so now is the time to consider registering your book.

The Beijing International Book Fair is the largest publishing industry event in the Asian Market. This is a huge opportunity for self-published authors, considering China is the most populous country in the world. This market is interested in books translated into their local language as well as the rights to distribute English Language content. English language titles are at the forefront of the market growth in China.

Children’s books authors can be especially lucrative in this market, since the government mandates that all Chinese children learn English at an early age. STM, academic areas, sports, sports medicine, and military history are also areas that have been in high demand.

Hundreds of thousands of visitors attend the show annually to see the books from 56 different countries. Your book could be there!

To learn more, visit http://www.chinaexhibition.com/Official_Site/11-2822-BIBF_2013_-_The_20th_Beijing_International_Book_Fair.html

Kelly Speaks, Uncategorized

3 Ways to Give Your Dad the Gift of Self-Publishing

Father’s Day is June 15th, and perhaps you are still looking for the perfect gift to give your dad. Well, if your dad has always wanted to publish a book, self-publishing may just be the perfect present. Here are three ways you can give your dad the gift of self-publishing this Father’s Day.

1. Buy him a publishing package.

Self-publishing companies offer a variety of publishing packages to meet a range of needs. Purchase a publishing package with your dad’s favorite publishing company. Some companies, such as Outskirts Press, actually offer instant gift cards you can order online.

2. Hire a ghostwriter for him.

If your dad has always wanted to publish a book but struggles to write it, consider hiring him a ghostwriter. Whether he simply needs help finishing up a manuscript or needs help from start to finish, a professional ghostwriter can help him write the book of his dreams.

3. Self-publish in his honor.

If you’ve written a book in honor of your dad, now is the perfect time to publish it. He will be deeply touched by the special gift and cherish it forever.

I’d love to know, what are you giving your dad this Father’s Day?

Kelly Speaks

How to Make the Most of BookExpo America 2014

BookExpo America (BEA) is currently taking place at the Javits Center in NYC until Saturday, May 31, 2014 . This event is an excellent opportunity to network, learn about the publishing industry, and promote yourself and your self-published book. Here is what you need to know and do to make the most of Book Expo America.

1. Plan ahead

Before attending the event, spend some time planning. Review author sessions and exhibit list to create your own personal schedule. Also, be sure to view the floor plan, so you know exactly where to go. This will help you use your time efficiently.

2. Register online.

BEA offers excellent online resources to help attendees plan their visit to the exhibit. One of these great resources is online registration. During the registration, you can also purchase tickets for special events such as Author Breakfasts and Autographing Passes.

3. Dress appropriately.

Since you will be networking, you will want to look professional, but you will also want to dress comfortably. Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking a lot. Also, dress in layers since you may get warm walking around but be chilly while attending one of the conferences.

4. Pack for survival.

Come equipped with items that will help you enjoy the event. Bring a water bottle and your phone charger. Also, pack a small notebook and pen to jot down ideas and notes.

5. Take a break and enjoy the city.

While in NYC, take a break from the exhibit and enjoy the city. There are plenty of great restaurants and attractions to check out.

I’d love to know, what are your tips for those attending BEA?

Kelly Speaks

ALA Conference 2014 in Las Vegas

The American Library Association annual conference and exhibit will take place in Las Vegas starting June 26, 2014 through July 1, 2014. The event features a variety of exhibits, speakers, and networking opportunities. It is a great chance for self-publishing authors to learn more about the publishing industry and network with other professionals.

Events such as the ALA Conference are excellent for helping self-published authors sell their books. Networking and learning about the industry are key steps in becoming a self-publishing successful story.

Some of the many benefits of attending the event include:

Make your library more efficient
Save your library time and money
Better serve your library users
Become a more effective library advocate
Make your library network stronger
Build a stronger reputation for your library
Inject fresh energy, excitement, and professionalism into your work
Become an excited, well-formed professional

First time attendees should review Leigh Milligan’s top ten tips in her article for INALJ based on her experience at the 2014 ALA Midwinter Meeting. Read the full article here.

You can find other helpful resources for first time attendees, exhibitors, and job searches by visiting http://ala14.ala.org/.

Annual registration and housing are now available. You can begin the registration process by visiting http://ala14.ala.org/register-now.

I’d love to know, do you plan on attending the 2014 ALA Conference? If you’ve attended an ALA Conference in the past, how did it impact your publishing success?

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