Welcome to this week’s Top Tips, which come from I.B.Tauris
– and include a bonus tip!
1. Research potential publishers thoroughly. Make sure you’re aware of the subject areas that each publisher covers and ensure that your manuscript fits well with a publisher’s existing list before submitting. You are likely to be more successful if you can demonstrate clearly that your manuscript complements a publisher’s current books.
2. Similarly, make sure you contact the correct editor, if possible. Contact details for all the I.B.Tauris editors are available on our website, and our subject homepages give details about their interests and priorities for their lists.
3. Get to know the competition. Take a look at existing books in your subject area – is there a gap in the research that your manuscript can fill? How will your book stand out from the competition? It will help if you can demonstrate that there is a clear need for your book, and a market willing to buy it.
4. Read the submission guidelines carefully and stick to them. For example, don’t submit your full manuscript if the publisher has only asked for two sample chapters. I.B.Tauris requires the following for any proposal:
a) A proposal letter indicating the book’s subject, length and potential market
b) A synopsis of the book
c) Table of Contents
d) Two sample chapters (if available)
e) Your CV/resumé
Full submission guidelines are available here!
5. Attend conferences in your subject area. I.B.Tauris editors regularly go to conferences and events in their field, so this is an excellent opportunity to meet them in person, discuss your ideas with them, and get some feedback.
6. After submitting your proposal, try to build a good working relationship with your publisher. We will work hard to make your book a success, but there are certain things you can do to help. For example, take a look at our marketing and publicity guide for details on helping to promote your book!
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