Everyone needs a little luck, right?
I’ve heard it a thousand times. “Wow, you got really lucky, finding a publisher.”
Luck my ass, there is nothing lucky about it. There are actually ways that you can increase your odds.
1. Following instructions counts. Most publishers/ agents have a specific format that they want followed. Don’t try to be different or unique. I’m sure you have your own style, but, when submitting, you follow their standard. If you can’t follow the simple directions/ protol, then why would they invest in you?
2. Edit. Often. A typo or two can go a long way towards rejection. I realize this one is common sense to most of us, but, I still read stuff that’s loaded with errors. The author always says “well, just overlook it for now”… Or– I will edit it later. Do yourself a favor, edit it now 🙂
3. It’s never about the “plot”. Yes, a strong plot is important, but, when submitting, they may never even get to the plot. It’s always about the writing. You can make the worst idea marketable (yes, we’ve all seen it) if it’s well written. I hear it a lot “Well, the plot is very good”. And? if it’s poorly written, then it doesn’t matter how great your plot is.
Just remember, do your research, edit, and keep it simple. That alone should put you above about 80% of everyone else who has submitted that week.
— Joe
Ionic Fantasy 