by Hal Lillywhite

Created on: October 03, 2007   Last Updated: October 04, 2007

Every writer wants to get published - and preferably paid a lot of money. However it is wise to be careful about how you allow the publisher to treat you. There are many honorable publishers. Sadly there are a few who will take advantage of you, whether your writing is for normal publications or for the web. I offer the following tips to help others:

First, realize that your work may not deserve publication. Sorry, it is possible that your writing is not as good as you think it is. Even if you have written something outstanding, there may not be a market for it. That's life.

Second, be aware that publication is at best a hit and miss proposition. Even if you have produced something that should be published, it can be difficult to find the right publisher. Some may be busy with other projects and not have time for you. Some may simply think your work doesn't fit their system, no matter how good it is. Some may not recognize the potential in your work. This last is very common, nearly all famous authors have collections of rejection slips. Publishers are far from perfect in their ability to determine what will sell and what will not. If you and some people you trust really believe your work is worth publishing, keep trying. If you get lucky enough to become well-known as an author, publication will be easier.

Third, once you do find a publisher, don't give away the store. It is easy for a new author to get so excited about publication that he grabs a contract without adequate evaluation. It is helpful to check with an attorney to be sure you aren't putting yourself at risk unnecessarily. Some things to consider are:

Don't enter into exclusive agreements for future works except in special cases such as sequels. Even then, be certain that you have an escape clause if they fail to treat your sequel fairly.

Publishers usually include in the contract a clause holding you liable for any problems such as plagiarism. That is reasonable but be certain it doesn't go too far. If you steal someone else's work, you deserve what you will undoubtedly get. However don't allow yourself to be held liable for anything beyond what is in your control.

Publishers often require that disputes be arbitrated. That is reasonable but make sure you don't have to travel a long distance to defend yourself. Likewise, try to find some inexpensive way to avoid arbitration for minor amounts. You don't want to get stuck with a $10,000 arbitration bill for a $1,000 dispute. One way out is to simply say

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