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The first step in getting your book sold to a publisher is putting together a proposal so that potential publishers know why they should invest their resources in bringing your idea to the marketplace. Here’s what you need to communicate:

1. The Overview: Why is your book concept, or ‘hook’, different from what’s already on the shelves? Does it offer a unique voice or methodology? Has something happened in the world or is there a trend that’s emerging that demands a new book on the subject?

2. The Table of Contents and Chapter Outline. This is probably the section that you’ll struggle with the most, but once it’s complete the book will practically write itself. You’ll need at least ten chapters to be considered ‘meaty’ enough for publication. Once you decide on the message of each chapter, write an engaging title for each. Then, craft a lead paragraph to demonstrate your unique ‘voice’ to your writing.

3. The Introduction. Start by studying Introductions of other non-fiction books to get a solid understanding of the purpose of this section. In short, it sets up the entire book for your readers. This is where you qualify what you are about to do within the chapters and explain yourself and your intent. For example, “I’m not a doctor, but what I’m about to share with you are ways that I’ve learned to”

4. Target Markets. No more talking to readers here, this is where you tell publishers that you completely understand the demographics of the audience you intend to sell to. Who are these people? How old are they and how do they spend their free time? If you’re writing a book about parenting, for example, give statistics about how busy your readers are and how eager they have proven to be when it comes to seeking advice.

5. Competitive Titles. There are probably several books on the shelves right now that cover your material. Let publishers know that you are fully aware of that by offering two or three of the titles and then contrasting your message with theirs. Of course, prove that your book’s message is far superior from what already exists!

6. Author Background. Assuming that you’ve convinced a publisher that your book needs to be developed, why are you the best author for the job? This is where you stop selling the book and start selling yourself. What is your background and who do you know that could lead to book sales? Publishers want to know that at least 10,000 copies of your book will sell. Using the example of a parenting book, are you the PTO President? If so, there’s a strong likelihood that you’d be invited to speak to large groups when the book comes out (which in turn leads to book sales). Do you have a radio show with a built-in audience for book sales? Are you a blogger with a proven record of unique hits per day? This section of the proposal is where you convince publishers that you are the only person qualified to write this book and help with its success.

7. Promotions. If you think that you’ll be sent on a glorious book tour and do nothing but smile and sign copies, think again. Such royal treatment is reserved for best sellers these days. You’ll need to think outside of the box and help your publisher spread the word about your book. This is where you brainstorm and share your ideas. Is there a National “Tough Love Your Dog” day that you could attach your services to somehow? Would you print a “How To” summary on postcards and send them to vets to put on display in their waiting room? Brainstorm some ways to support book sales to the masses and your publisher will know that they have a partner in you.

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