What happens after the contract?

My next short story, Love Waltzes In, will be out soon at Red Rose Publishing. This makes my third piece to be picked up by RRP and I have to sit back a little and ponder my luck. Some folks out there do not understand how important it is to be successful repetitively as an author. If at any time your work gets rejected, you experience a setback.

For some people, setbacks can be life altering. I’m pretty sure that with my recent successes tucked into my jeans pocket, to get a rejection would hurt and maybe even send me into a writer’s depression.

So what happens after that all-important book or story gets a yes? I can tell you what has happened with me.

1. After sending back in my contracts, I celebrate a little. I mean, come on, you worked really hard to get that ‘yes’ right? You deserve a nice dinner and some down time. Take it now because soon you will not have time.
2. Once the celebration is over, get yourself a website if you haven’t yet. This is crucial! I am a radio show host who helps authors promote their work and nothing sends me into a tailspin faster than an author with no place to send readers. I know Amazon is where they BUY the book, but heckfire, they want to learn about YOU too.
3. Begin building your social network. The big three is plenty to begin with, including, Facebook, Myspace, and Twitter. If you are active there, then you will have plenty to keep you going. If you are ambitious like myself, branch out and find such sites as Livejournal, and Ning, and have a ball.
4. Get to work on a list of potential sites to promote yourself aside from your website and the aforementioned networks. You will need a blog. Believe me when I say you will have a lot to talk about soon.
5. Finally, don’t be afraid to talk about the coming soon work. It is vital to build a buzz about it long before it arrives. You’ll be very glad you did. And don’t forget online radio shows! Introducing WRITERS! And others will get the word out faster than you can say Jack Frost.

I hope this has helped you. I am happy to say that Love Waltzes In is my third acceptance but not my last. There are many more enjoyable works in the wings by Kim Smith. Keep reading!