I know the writing is what it comes down to, but at the same time what about when you're trying to promote your book!?
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Position:Home>Books & Authors> How much do looks and personality matter in publishing?Question: How much do looks and personality matter in publishing!? I know the writing is what it comes down to, but at the same time what about when you're trying to promote your book!?
Www@QuestionHome@Com Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: It's like any industry!. Business skills, presentation and communication skills are all incredibly important!. These skills are important before you even get a publishing deal!. You've got to appeal to the editors and publishers first - they've got to feel as though they can work with you!. They will also look at appearance closely because they're selling you to the public; not just your narrative!.Www@QuestionHome@Com It would be lovely to think that the best books just get published, but there is certainly something to how hard you work to get your book to the right people!. I believe there is an element of "who you know" involved, because I have read some not -so-great books!. How'd they get published!? Networking is likely an important tool to getting your book out there!. I don't know if looks are really what will sell it, but personality is likely definitely key!. Unless you write the most amazing book from sentence one on, you will have to sell it!. Or, you can pull a Paolini (Eragon) and self-publish and really market the book well!. Www@QuestionHome@Com You want to look pulled together and professional, not like you just went to McDonald's!. However, you shouldn't try to change the way you look, just look nice, not grubby or snotty!. If you're doing a signing, wear something flattering and nice, but make sure it expresses your personality!. You want to be kind and polite, but don't try to be somebody you're not!. Being yourself is the best way to go!.Www@QuestionHome@Com Not to crack on him, but Stephen King looks like a weirdo and he is one of the most successful writers out there!. So physical appearance doesn't matter much!. It can be about personality, though!. The more able you are to get out there, be friendly, and be interesting - the better for your sales!. Publishers do some of that work, but many times it'll be up to you to!.Www@QuestionHome@Com I think King's odd appearance kind of works in his favor as a horror writer!. Looks and personality can make a difference to some extent!. How many people want to buy a book about finance or romance from a person that looks like they've been homeless long enough to have pet names for their lice!? Or self help books from someone who clearly still has "issues" they coldn't help themselves with!? The public really isn't blind to such things!. We do still judge books and people by their cover/content!. Www@QuestionHome@Com i dont think it matters at all!. if you have a great book that everyone loves, no one cares what the author looks likeWww@QuestionHome@Com |