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<\/a><\/p>\nPeople often say that publishing is a tough business\u2014and after more than twenty years as a publisher, I can confirm that they\u2019re absolutely right. The industry has grown steadily since 2013, thanks to self-publishing and e-books, but that growth has also created tremendous competition. Readers now have more choices than ever, which makes it harder for any book to stand out.<\/p>\n
The Challenge of Self-Publishing<\/strong><\/h2>\nSelf-publishing opened the door for many new writers, but success is far from guaranteed. In 2017 alone, over one million self-published titles hit the market\u2014yet most self-published authors sell only about 250 copies or fewer. Some earn less than $500, which doesn\u2019t even cover the cost of proper editing.<\/p>\n
Still, many writers dream of getting their book traditionally published. They submit their manuscripts hoping a publisher will see potential and offer a contract.<\/p>\n
Why Traditional Publishers Are So Selective<\/strong><\/h2>\nPublishing a book is expensive. Editing, cover design, illustrations, printing, marketing, and advances can cost thousands of dollars. For that reason, publishers must choose only the manuscripts they believe will sell well enough to recover those costs.<\/p>\n
Most publishers accept only a small fraction of the submissions they receive. That\u2019s why they create submission guidelines: to help authors know exactly what to send\u2014and to help busy staff quickly determine whether a manuscript is worth further review.<\/p>\n
Why Many Manuscripts Are Rejected<\/strong><\/h2>\nA surprising number of authors don\u2019t understand how publishing companies work. They submit manuscripts without reading guidelines, send them through the wrong channels, or assume that publishers will handle everything\u2014including marketing. These misunderstandings lead to quick rejections or no response at all.<\/p>\n
Here are some common mistakes authors make when approaching Christian publishers, along with advice for avoiding them:<\/p>\n
\nCommon Mistakes Authors Make\u2014and How to Fix Them<\/strong><\/h1>\n1. Submitting a manuscript full of errors<\/strong><\/h2>\nEvery manuscript has a few mistakes, but pages filled with spelling, grammar, and style problems are a red flag. Small publishers especially may not have the budget to fix heavily flawed writing. Submitting a clean, polished manuscript shows professionalism and respect for the publisher\u2019s time.<\/p>\n
2. Having no marketing or promotional plan<\/strong><\/h2>\nMany authors still assume the publisher will do all the marketing. In reality, publishers expect authors to help promote their own book. Social media presence, speaking opportunities, a website, and active self-promotion all matter. A strong platform can make or break a submission.<\/p>\n
3. Sending material that doesn\u2019t match the publisher\u2019s mission<\/strong><\/h2>\nNot all Christian publishers publish the same kinds of books. Study the company\u2019s beliefs, vision, and existing titles. If your manuscript doesn\u2019t align with their mission, it will likely be rejected\u2014even if it\u2019s well written.<\/p>\n
4. Submitting a poorly written book<\/strong><\/h2>\nA great idea is not enough. Publishers commonly receive manuscripts with weak writing, confusing structure, unrealistic fiction plots, or inaccurate non-fiction content. While publishers may provide light editing, they will not rewrite your book. Strong writing is essential.<\/p>\n
5. Ignoring the submission guidelines<\/strong><\/h2>\nAlmost every publisher has specific guidelines. If you skip them, your manuscript may be rejected unread. Always visit the publisher\u2019s official website and follow the instructions exactly.<\/p>\n
6. Expecting the publisher to \u201cpre-discuss\u201d your manuscript<\/strong><\/h2>\nSome authors want the publisher to evaluate or comment on their manuscript before they officially submit it. Most publishers simply don\u2019t have time for this. Instead, research the company\u2019s books to determine whether your manuscript fits.<\/p>\n
7. Relying solely on writer\u2019s market guides<\/strong><\/h2>\nMarket guides are helpful, but they can become outdated quickly. Always verify information\u2014especially submission guidelines\u2014on the publisher\u2019s website or social media.<\/p>\n
8. Avoiding the use of an agent when one is needed<\/strong><\/h2>\nA literary agent can be invaluable. Agents understand the industry, know the publishers, and negotiate contracts. If handling submissions and business matters feels overwhelming, consider hiring a Christian literary agent.<\/p>\n
9. Not knowing how to handle rejection<\/strong><\/h2>\nRejection is part of the process. Don\u2019t respond angrily or criticize the publisher. Instead, use any feedback to improve your manuscript. If the publisher didn\u2019t reject the book because it was a bad fit, you may be able to submit again later. Otherwise, move on to another company.<\/p>\n
10. Making unrealistic or lofty claims<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Publishing a book is expensive. Editing, cover design, illustrations, printing, marketing, and advances can cost thousands of dollars. For that reason, publishers must choose only the manuscripts they believe will sell well enough to recover those costs.<\/p>\n
Most publishers accept only a small fraction of the submissions they receive. That\u2019s why they create submission guidelines: to help authors know exactly what to send\u2014and to help busy staff quickly determine whether a manuscript is worth further review.<\/p>\n
Why Many Manuscripts Are Rejected<\/strong><\/h2>\nA surprising number of authors don\u2019t understand how publishing companies work. They submit manuscripts without reading guidelines, send them through the wrong channels, or assume that publishers will handle everything\u2014including marketing. These misunderstandings lead to quick rejections or no response at all.<\/p>\n
Here are some common mistakes authors make when approaching Christian publishers, along with advice for avoiding them:<\/p>\n
\nCommon Mistakes Authors Make\u2014and How to Fix Them<\/strong><\/h1>\n1. Submitting a manuscript full of errors<\/strong><\/h2>\nEvery manuscript has a few mistakes, but pages filled with spelling, grammar, and style problems are a red flag. Small publishers especially may not have the budget to fix heavily flawed writing. Submitting a clean, polished manuscript shows professionalism and respect for the publisher\u2019s time.<\/p>\n
2. Having no marketing or promotional plan<\/strong><\/h2>\nMany authors still assume the publisher will do all the marketing. In reality, publishers expect authors to help promote their own book. Social media presence, speaking opportunities, a website, and active self-promotion all matter. A strong platform can make or break a submission.<\/p>\n
3. Sending material that doesn\u2019t match the publisher\u2019s mission<\/strong><\/h2>\nNot all Christian publishers publish the same kinds of books. Study the company\u2019s beliefs, vision, and existing titles. If your manuscript doesn\u2019t align with their mission, it will likely be rejected\u2014even if it\u2019s well written.<\/p>\n
4. Submitting a poorly written book<\/strong><\/h2>\nA great idea is not enough. Publishers commonly receive manuscripts with weak writing, confusing structure, unrealistic fiction plots, or inaccurate non-fiction content. While publishers may provide light editing, they will not rewrite your book. Strong writing is essential.<\/p>\n
5. Ignoring the submission guidelines<\/strong><\/h2>\nAlmost every publisher has specific guidelines. If you skip them, your manuscript may be rejected unread. Always visit the publisher\u2019s official website and follow the instructions exactly.<\/p>\n
6. Expecting the publisher to \u201cpre-discuss\u201d your manuscript<\/strong><\/h2>\nSome authors want the publisher to evaluate or comment on their manuscript before they officially submit it. Most publishers simply don\u2019t have time for this. Instead, research the company\u2019s books to determine whether your manuscript fits.<\/p>\n
7. Relying solely on writer\u2019s market guides<\/strong><\/h2>\nMarket guides are helpful, but they can become outdated quickly. Always verify information\u2014especially submission guidelines\u2014on the publisher\u2019s website or social media.<\/p>\n
8. Avoiding the use of an agent when one is needed<\/strong><\/h2>\nA literary agent can be invaluable. Agents understand the industry, know the publishers, and negotiate contracts. If handling submissions and business matters feels overwhelming, consider hiring a Christian literary agent.<\/p>\n
9. Not knowing how to handle rejection<\/strong><\/h2>\nRejection is part of the process. Don\u2019t respond angrily or criticize the publisher. Instead, use any feedback to improve your manuscript. If the publisher didn\u2019t reject the book because it was a bad fit, you may be able to submit again later. Otherwise, move on to another company.<\/p>\n
10. Making unrealistic or lofty claims<\/strong><\/h2>\n
1. Submitting a manuscript full of errors<\/strong><\/h2>\nEvery manuscript has a few mistakes, but pages filled with spelling, grammar, and style problems are a red flag. Small publishers especially may not have the budget to fix heavily flawed writing. Submitting a clean, polished manuscript shows professionalism and respect for the publisher\u2019s time.<\/p>\n
2. Having no marketing or promotional plan<\/strong><\/h2>\nMany authors still assume the publisher will do all the marketing. In reality, publishers expect authors to help promote their own book. Social media presence, speaking opportunities, a website, and active self-promotion all matter. A strong platform can make or break a submission.<\/p>\n
3. Sending material that doesn\u2019t match the publisher\u2019s mission<\/strong><\/h2>\nNot all Christian publishers publish the same kinds of books. Study the company\u2019s beliefs, vision, and existing titles. If your manuscript doesn\u2019t align with their mission, it will likely be rejected\u2014even if it\u2019s well written.<\/p>\n
4. Submitting a poorly written book<\/strong><\/h2>\nA great idea is not enough. Publishers commonly receive manuscripts with weak writing, confusing structure, unrealistic fiction plots, or inaccurate non-fiction content. While publishers may provide light editing, they will not rewrite your book. Strong writing is essential.<\/p>\n
5. Ignoring the submission guidelines<\/strong><\/h2>\nAlmost every publisher has specific guidelines. If you skip them, your manuscript may be rejected unread. Always visit the publisher\u2019s official website and follow the instructions exactly.<\/p>\n
6. Expecting the publisher to \u201cpre-discuss\u201d your manuscript<\/strong><\/h2>\nSome authors want the publisher to evaluate or comment on their manuscript before they officially submit it. Most publishers simply don\u2019t have time for this. Instead, research the company\u2019s books to determine whether your manuscript fits.<\/p>\n
7. Relying solely on writer\u2019s market guides<\/strong><\/h2>\nMarket guides are helpful, but they can become outdated quickly. Always verify information\u2014especially submission guidelines\u2014on the publisher\u2019s website or social media.<\/p>\n
8. Avoiding the use of an agent when one is needed<\/strong><\/h2>\nA literary agent can be invaluable. Agents understand the industry, know the publishers, and negotiate contracts. If handling submissions and business matters feels overwhelming, consider hiring a Christian literary agent.<\/p>\n
9. Not knowing how to handle rejection<\/strong><\/h2>\nRejection is part of the process. Don\u2019t respond angrily or criticize the publisher. Instead, use any feedback to improve your manuscript. If the publisher didn\u2019t reject the book because it was a bad fit, you may be able to submit again later. Otherwise, move on to another company.<\/p>\n
10. Making unrealistic or lofty claims<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Many authors still assume the publisher will do all the marketing. In reality, publishers expect authors to help promote their own book. Social media presence, speaking opportunities, a website, and active self-promotion all matter. A strong platform can make or break a submission.<\/p>\n
3. Sending material that doesn\u2019t match the publisher\u2019s mission<\/strong><\/h2>\nNot all Christian publishers publish the same kinds of books. Study the company\u2019s beliefs, vision, and existing titles. If your manuscript doesn\u2019t align with their mission, it will likely be rejected\u2014even if it\u2019s well written.<\/p>\n
4. Submitting a poorly written book<\/strong><\/h2>\nA great idea is not enough. Publishers commonly receive manuscripts with weak writing, confusing structure, unrealistic fiction plots, or inaccurate non-fiction content. While publishers may provide light editing, they will not rewrite your book. Strong writing is essential.<\/p>\n
5. Ignoring the submission guidelines<\/strong><\/h2>\nAlmost every publisher has specific guidelines. If you skip them, your manuscript may be rejected unread. Always visit the publisher\u2019s official website and follow the instructions exactly.<\/p>\n
6. Expecting the publisher to \u201cpre-discuss\u201d your manuscript<\/strong><\/h2>\nSome authors want the publisher to evaluate or comment on their manuscript before they officially submit it. Most publishers simply don\u2019t have time for this. Instead, research the company\u2019s books to determine whether your manuscript fits.<\/p>\n
7. Relying solely on writer\u2019s market guides<\/strong><\/h2>\nMarket guides are helpful, but they can become outdated quickly. Always verify information\u2014especially submission guidelines\u2014on the publisher\u2019s website or social media.<\/p>\n
8. Avoiding the use of an agent when one is needed<\/strong><\/h2>\nA literary agent can be invaluable. Agents understand the industry, know the publishers, and negotiate contracts. If handling submissions and business matters feels overwhelming, consider hiring a Christian literary agent.<\/p>\n
9. Not knowing how to handle rejection<\/strong><\/h2>\nRejection is part of the process. Don\u2019t respond angrily or criticize the publisher. Instead, use any feedback to improve your manuscript. If the publisher didn\u2019t reject the book because it was a bad fit, you may be able to submit again later. Otherwise, move on to another company.<\/p>\n
10. Making unrealistic or lofty claims<\/strong><\/h2>\n
A great idea is not enough. Publishers commonly receive manuscripts with weak writing, confusing structure, unrealistic fiction plots, or inaccurate non-fiction content. While publishers may provide light editing, they will not rewrite your book. Strong writing is essential.<\/p>\n
5. Ignoring the submission guidelines<\/strong><\/h2>\nAlmost every publisher has specific guidelines. If you skip them, your manuscript may be rejected unread. Always visit the publisher\u2019s official website and follow the instructions exactly.<\/p>\n
6. Expecting the publisher to \u201cpre-discuss\u201d your manuscript<\/strong><\/h2>\nSome authors want the publisher to evaluate or comment on their manuscript before they officially submit it. Most publishers simply don\u2019t have time for this. Instead, research the company\u2019s books to determine whether your manuscript fits.<\/p>\n
7. Relying solely on writer\u2019s market guides<\/strong><\/h2>\nMarket guides are helpful, but they can become outdated quickly. Always verify information\u2014especially submission guidelines\u2014on the publisher\u2019s website or social media.<\/p>\n
8. Avoiding the use of an agent when one is needed<\/strong><\/h2>\nA literary agent can be invaluable. Agents understand the industry, know the publishers, and negotiate contracts. If handling submissions and business matters feels overwhelming, consider hiring a Christian literary agent.<\/p>\n
9. Not knowing how to handle rejection<\/strong><\/h2>\nRejection is part of the process. Don\u2019t respond angrily or criticize the publisher. Instead, use any feedback to improve your manuscript. If the publisher didn\u2019t reject the book because it was a bad fit, you may be able to submit again later. Otherwise, move on to another company.<\/p>\n
10. Making unrealistic or lofty claims<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Some authors want the publisher to evaluate or comment on their manuscript before they officially submit it. Most publishers simply don\u2019t have time for this. Instead, research the company\u2019s books to determine whether your manuscript fits.<\/p>\n
7. Relying solely on writer\u2019s market guides<\/strong><\/h2>\nMarket guides are helpful, but they can become outdated quickly. Always verify information\u2014especially submission guidelines\u2014on the publisher\u2019s website or social media.<\/p>\n
8. Avoiding the use of an agent when one is needed<\/strong><\/h2>\nA literary agent can be invaluable. Agents understand the industry, know the publishers, and negotiate contracts. If handling submissions and business matters feels overwhelming, consider hiring a Christian literary agent.<\/p>\n
9. Not knowing how to handle rejection<\/strong><\/h2>\nRejection is part of the process. Don\u2019t respond angrily or criticize the publisher. Instead, use any feedback to improve your manuscript. If the publisher didn\u2019t reject the book because it was a bad fit, you may be able to submit again later. Otherwise, move on to another company.<\/p>\n
10. Making unrealistic or lofty claims<\/strong><\/h2>\n
A literary agent can be invaluable. Agents understand the industry, know the publishers, and negotiate contracts. If handling submissions and business matters feels overwhelming, consider hiring a Christian literary agent.<\/p>\n