Understanding the Journey
First, understanding what it means to become an author is crucial. Becoming an author is a journey of passion, creativity, and resilience. You can be a good writer, creating content for clients, articles, or social media posts, and even generate a significant following. But that doesn’t necessarily make you an author.
You become an author by getting published, and the process is very different from simply being a writer. Authorship is more complex—it’s akin to becoming an actor or a musician. Just as musicians and actors need good production, a compelling script or beats, great performance, and marketing budgets, being an author involves a blend of creative and strategic elements.
Unfortunately, many authors make the mistake of treating their careers like those of writers, focusing solely on the craft of writing. In contrast, a successful musician is constantly in front of their audience—on camera, giving interviews, and participating in collaborations—all to build visibility. Similarly, an author must actively engage with their audience to thrive.
Now that we’ve clarified the difference between a writer and an author, let’s discuss how to become an author and how I would approach it today.
1. Start Writing
We’ve already discussed the process of writing, so I won’t go into details here. However, one key takeaway is this: whether you’re searching for a story idea or already have a story in mind, you must genuinely love the art of writing. Your passion for writing will sustain you through the tough times when progress feels slow, and the results aren’t immediate.
2. Edit Thoroughly
Editing deserves its own spotlight because it’s essential. Over 11,000 books are published daily, and you have a limited opportunity to convince readers to pick up yours. If they do, don’t disappoint them with a poorly edited book.
Books require active focus from readers, unlike music, which can be enjoyed passively. Any errors in your book will stand out and disrupt their experience. This could reduce the likelihood of them finishing it or recommending it to others. Invest in professional editing—it’s non-negotiable.
3. Plan Your Strategy
Once your manuscript is edited and ready, decide on your publishing route. If you’re on a limited budget and can only afford online publishing (approximately ₦36,000), your strategy should align with your resources.
- Build an Author Website: This is a vital step for your long-term career. Use it to showcase everything about yourself and your book.
- Leverage Your Network: Inform friends, family, and co-workers about your upcoming book. Share your website link and promise free copies to some. This makes them feel valued and naturally encourages them to talk about and promote your book. By securing even a small group of supporters—say, 15 people—you’ve already laid the foundation for your launch.
4. Launch Your Book
When launching, avoid relying solely on third-party platforms, as accounts can be banned and books removed unexpectedly. Selling directly on your website offers numerous advantages:
- Online Presence: Your website enhances visibility on search engines.
- Audience Building: You collect valuable information about buyers (names, emails, and contacts), which helps you build a database.
Over time, send thank-you messages or small gifts to your buyers to maintain a relationship with them. Remember, it’s okay if your first launch doesn’t generate massive sales. Authorship is a journey, and with consistent effort, results will come.
5. Promote Consistently
Promotion doesn’t stop after launch. Use every available avenue—blogs, social media ads, and more—to keep your book visible. Simultaneously, continue building your audience database. The more contacts you have, the easier and more successful your subsequent book launches will be.
Conclusion
Becoming a professional author requires more than just writing skills. It’s about strategic planning, thorough editing, effective promotion, and building relationships with your audience. Stay committed to your craft, embrace the journey, and success will follow.
