A gatekeeper’s hidden benefit

Written By Reese Hopper

A hidden benefit of industry gatekeepers is that they force you to get your act together. In a workshop called Book Proposal Bootcamp, publishing agent Ted Weinstein said he encourages every writer to create a book proposal, even if they know they’re going to self-publish. Why? Because how could it hurt you to outline a clear business plan, target audience, and shelf your book will sit on? Wouldn’t the process of researching other books only help you write yours? 

If you’re creating anything, it’s wise to ask yourself a few questions:

  • Who is this for?

  • Who will buy this?

  • How will I get the word out?

  • What other work is this similar to?

  • How is mine different? 

Reese Hopper

Reese Hopper is the author of What Gives You the Right to Freelance? He’s also a prolific creator on Instagram, and the editor of this website.

Next

Tears in the soil