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Rejection is a huge part of a writer's life, but knowing that doesn't always make it easier. Check out our top tips for brushing it off and moving forward.
You’ve probably heard stories of some authors receiving a book deal after sending out their manuscript on a whim. For most writers, the opposite is true. Typically, getting published is a long and tricky road paved with rejection. That's why we've put together 10 tips to help you along the way.
If you’re putting your work into the public domain, it will face rejection. However, think of this in a more positive way: it takes courage to put your work out there and you’re giving it a chance to be noticed.
Patience is key when it comes to hearing back about your manuscript. Publishers and (this will open in a new window)literary agents are very busy and you may face some very long wait times. In fact, you may not hear back at all. Be sure to check the guidelines to see if you should write off a particular contact after a certain number of months.
If you receive a rejection letter that happens to include some feedback, you actually have reason to celebrate. Feedback is very rare and should be seen as encouragement that your writing shows promise, even if it isn't the right fit for that agent or publisher. Be sure to take the feedback on board and give it due consideration, even if you decide not to follow it.
Even if you don’t receive feedback, that doesn’t mean your work isn’t worth sending out again. It could simply be a case of a bad fit for that publisher or you need to do some more work on it. The important thing is to keep writing.
If a particular piece keeps getting rejected, think about why this might be happening. Does the same bit of feedback keep cropping up? Make sure you address any issues and fix them before sending your work out again.
Nobody enjoys rejection. As a writer, you need to develop a very thick skin if you’re going to sustain a career in the industry. However, there’s nothing wrong with admitting a rejection hurts. The important thing is not to dwell on it.
Your novel is just one submission in a very large pile that is constantly growing. Just because one publisher or agent doesn’t want to take it on, that doesn’t mean no-one ever will. Take a step back and remember why you love the story you’re telling in the first place.
Harassing people via email, telephone or social media is never a good thing. Such behaviour will only make you look bad, and could potentially ruin any future publication opportunities. Think before you click.
Remind yourself that you’re part of a community of writers. Join a writing group (or start your own), go along to a literary salon or an event and reconnect with other writers. Immerse yourself in the bigger picture.
Rest is important too! If submitting is taking its toll, have a break to recharge your batteries. Similarly, switching to a new piece of work can have a rejuvenating effect. Look after yourself and your writing will benefit from it.
By supporting our work, you are helping children and adults in Scotland to reach their potential through reading and writing.
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