Succeeding as an Author

I read an article in the Huffington Post by Penny C. Sansevieri called “Why (Some) Authors Fail.” In it, she lists 8 reasons why, she feels, some authors fail. I saw those same 8 reasons and felt authors could turn them around and use those reasons to learn how to succeed.

You can link over to read the full article, but here is her list of 8 things that can cause you to fail, with my own very short synopsis of what she says about each.

1. Not learning enough about the industry
    Get to know the market you’re in

2. Not Accepting Feedback
    Don’t be so wrapped up in your ego that you aren't willing to listen and learn.

3. Not Surrounding Yourself with Enough Professionals
    You need professionals you trust by your side giving you advice, wisdom, and direction.

4. Not Doing Their Research
    Don’t wait to learn the ropes after your book is out - it’s too late then

5. Measuring Their Success in Book Sales
    Book sales are not the only measure of success

6. Not Understanding How New York Publishing Works
    Know what's selling, what's not -- who's buying, who's closing their doors.

7. Playing the Blame Game
    Investigate what happened and take a critical look at the results.

8. Believing in the Unbelievable
    To be successful you need to be relentless

Penny C. Sansevieri is the CEO and founder of Author Marketing Experts, Inc.