Questions To Ask Publishers Before Accepting An Offer

Are you an author who just received an offer to have one of your books published? Congratulations! There is no prouder moment in the career of a writer than having a book published. With that said, it is important to proceed with caution. In your excitement, be careful not to let your judgement be clouded. You need to go into this with a list of questions you will ask the publisher before you accept any offer. Those answers will be crucial to your decision. A few of these questions are highlighted below for your convenience.

Question: How will I be paid?

Answer: When it comes to money we are often shy about asking details. Get over it. If the book publisher doesn’t provide this information – ask. Learn the terminology ahead of time. They may offer a flat fee, an advance payment, royalties or a combination. It is also advised that you receive an exact amount of total payments, although this can be difficult if your payments are based on royalties, which are impacted by your book’s sales.

Question: Can I get an advance payment?

Answer: If a publisher is accustomed to offering advanced payments, they will put it in the offer. However, not all companies have this option, particularly if the author is new. Asking for an advance payment is one thing that many publishers come to assume, but you will want to move forward with caution at the same time. If you are in fiscal trouble, it may be a good idea to ask a publisher about advance payments, but keep your public perception in mind. If you will be compensated a flat fee, as opposed to royalty payments, consider waiting the few months that it will most likely take for you to receive payment.

In fact, when you can expect to receive payment is another question that you will want to ask.

Question: Will I get free copies of my book? If so, how many?

Answer: Although getting free copies of your published book isn’t as important as making sure that you get paid, it is something that is of great importance to many first time writers. New authors can gain some recognition by distributing free copies of their book to influential people in their sphere of influence. It’s also nice to be able to give free copies to your friends and family. In fact, you may want to have copies to send to them. Most reputable publishers willat a minimum give you with a free copy of your book, but additional copies will most likely depend on the publisher in question.

Question: Will my book be published in foreign countries?

Answer: It is important to know the answer to this question, as it may have an impact on the royalties that you receive. Make sure your contract specifies you will be paid for overseas and internet sales. Never let a publisher persuade you that international sales are different, as they should pay the same way, although a different rate may be agreed on.

Question: Will you retain the rights to your book or your characters?

Answer: The answer to this important question will all depend on your contract. That is why it is important for you to thoroughly read a contract before agreeing to sign it. Be sure to ask any additional questions that you may have. For example, if the book is successful, will you be the one to write sequels? What if someone wants to turn your book into a television show or movie?

The above mentioned questions are just a few of the many that you will want to ask a publisher before accepting their contract. You should know as much about the publisher before you enter any negotiations with them. Never sign a contract unless you understand all the details. For that reason, you are encouraged to sit down and make an additional list of questions that you would like to have the answers to. Make sure to do this before you make contact with the publisher in question, as it will help to ensure that all of your bases are covered and the first time.

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