Once you’ve signed that coveted book contract, the journey is far from over. In fact, it’s just beginning. The following are three actions to take to ensure a smooth and successful publication process.

1. Establish a writing schedule: A well-structured writing schedule is essential for staying on track and delivering your manuscript on time. Remember to include ample time for reviewing and revising your work. Some authors set apart their weekends or summer while others prefer to hit a certain word count each month. Whatever you choose, commit to it. A solid writing schedule should also include time to review and revise your work. Use productivity tools like Grammarly and time-management software like Microsoft’s Focus Time feature to help you stay on track.
2. Fire up your audience with a listserv: A listserv is a valuable tool for connecting with your readers and keeping them informed about your book’s progress. By inviting your audience to subscribe, you can build a loyal following and generate excitement for your upcoming publication. You can offer them exclusive sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes glimpses into your progress. Updates should be sent regularly, including milestones like your cover reveal and when your book is available to preorder.
3. Secure necessary permissions: If your book includes any third-party materials, such as graphs, illustrations, lyrics, or excerpts from other works, you must obtain the necessary permissions to reprint them. Do not assume fair use is applicable. Failure to do so could lead to legal issues and potential copyright infringement. Some publishers will not send your book to the printer if there are outstanding permissions, which could cause a delayed release.

You can have an efficient, successful publishing experience by following these steps.