How New Authors Are Using Entrepreneurial Skills In A Competitive Market
Writing has always been a competitive field, as the barrier to entry is relatively low, and everyone has something to say. Moreover, you don’t have to sell millions of books to enjoy the process of creative writing itself, no matter if you tie yourself to the non-fiction or fiction categories (or somewhere in between).
However, with the competitive nature of the market, the rival attention-suck of movies, video games, and social media, not to mention AI-generated books all over the self-publishing market, it can feel like a harder time than ever to break through. That’s why new, plucky authors are doing their best to try and leverage every tool they can to get their books out there. That’s not to say every strategy is going to work for all people, nor does it mean putting yourself out there is any less nerve-wracking than it felt at first.
But if you’re consistent, focused, and sharp, you may be increasing your chances. Let’s explore some of the ways entrepreneurial authors are trying to square that circle:
Printing At Personal Cost
Some authors are putting their own money into printing runs of their books. It isn’t cheap, but those who want something physical to hand out at events, signings, or even just within their local communities, often say it feels worth it, especially with quality book printing services. Holding a book in your hands changes the way people see it, and it changes how you see yourself as a writer too.
A small print run doesn’t have to be thousands of copies either, as even a few boxes of books kept at home can be used for giveaways, library donations, or to sell at a fair. That small investment can help an author stand out and it shows you’ve written something tangible.
Competitions
Writing contests have long been a way to get a name noticed, and they’re still relevant. That’ll usually include short story contests to full manuscript prizes, and through this there are plenty of routes that can put fresh work in front of the right judges or editors. Winning is great, of course, but even longlisting or shortlisting gives a piece credibility that an unknown author might not otherwise have.
Some competitions also provide feedback, which is worth its weight in gold. Even if you don’t place, knowing how professionals respond to your work can guide the next draft.
Heartfelt Social Media Presentations
Social media is always crowded, but it’s also where many writers are making personal connections. Readers respond when an author shares the real story behind their book, with a gentle pitch that doesn’t feel overly rehearsed, and in that you see the late nights, the doubts, the sparks of inspiration that came with it. Posts like that are harder to scroll past because they sound human and relatable.
For some, this has meant building small but loyal followings. Even if you just get a dozen people who watch, like and care, that’s more than some people. Early readers can even become champions, recommending the book to friends and helping spread the word. It’s nice and human. No one said entrepreneurialism had to be anything more than that.
With this advice, we hope you can find even more opportunities as an author.
