Publishing is a Business—Treat It Like One

For many writers, publishing feels like a dream—the culmination of years of hard work and creativity. But while writing is an art, publishing is an industry. This is one of the biggest mindset shifts I experienced after working closely with literary agents.

Agents don’t just look at manuscripts based on their literary merit. They assess them based on marketability, audience appeal, and long-term sales potential. Publishing houses do the same. The sooner a writer embraces this reality, the better they can navigate the industry with confidence.

Understanding contracts, rights, marketing, and positioning is crucial to building a sustainable writing career. Success in publishing isn’t just about writing a great book—it’s about understanding how to sell and protect that book in a competitive marketplace.

Lesson #1: An Agent Isn’t a Golden Ticket—They’re a Business Partner

Many writers believe that once they land an agent, their work is done. But an agent isn’t a fairy godparent who magically delivers a book deal—they are a business partner who helps guide a writer’s career.

Agents work on commission, meaning they only make money when a writer makes money. Their job is to sell a manuscript to publishers, negotiate contracts, and advise on career strategy, but they can’t guarantee success.

How to Apply This Lesson

• Choose an agent wisely. Don’t sign with the first agent who offers representation—ensure they’re the right fit for your goals.

• Be proactive in your career. While an agent will advocate for your book, you still need to market yourself, network, and keep writing.

• Communicate openly. Your agent is there to support you, but they can’t help if they don’t know your concerns or ambitions.

Lesson learned: An agent is a valuable partner, but a writer must take ownership of their career beyond representation.

Lesson #2: Contracts and Rights Matter More Than You Think

One of the biggest mistakes writers make is not reading their contracts carefully. Every publishing deal comes with legal agreements covering rights, royalties, advances, and distribution terms.

A bad contract can lock a writer into unfavourable terms for years—or even decades. Some contracts limit future writing projects, others include predatory clauses that strip an author of key rights. Understanding what’s in a contract before signing is essential to protecting a writer’s work and career.

How to Apply This Lesson

• Read every contract carefully. Don’t assume a deal is fair just because a publisher offers it.

• Consult a publishing lawyer or agent. If something in a contract seems unclear, get professional advice.

• Understand rights. Learn about foreign rights, film/TV rights, and audiobook rights—these can provide additional revenue streams.

Lesson learned: A good publishing deal isn’t just about the advance—it’s about the rights and terms that shape a writer’s long-term career.

Lesson #3: Marketing Is a Writer’s Responsibility

Many writers assume that once they sign with a publisher, marketing will be handled for them. The truth? Unless you’re a high-profile author, publishers expect writers to handle a significant portion of their own promotion.

Even traditionally published authors are expected to build their own platform, engage with readers, and market their books through social media, interviews, and book events. Self-published authors have an even greater responsibility for handling their own branding and sales strategy.

How to Apply This Lesson

• Build an online presence. Start engaging with your audience before your book is released.

• Learn basic marketing strategies. Study email marketing, social media outreach, and book launch planning.

• Think long-term. The first book is just the beginning—developing a reader base now will help future books succeed.

Lesson learned: Writers who invest in their own marketing efforts will have a stronger, more sustainable career.

Lesson #4: A Writing Career Requires Business Planning

A single book deal isn’t the end goal—it’s just one step in a long-term career. Many writers make the mistake of focusing only on getting published without thinking about what comes next.

Successful authors treat writing like a business. They create career roadmaps, plan their book releases, and diversify their income by exploring multiple revenue streams such as teaching, speaking engagements, freelance writing, or self-publishing additional works.

How to Apply This Lesson

• Set career goals. Where do you want to be in five years? Ten? Plan accordingly.

• Consider multiple income streams. Teaching, freelance work, and speaking engagements can supplement book earnings.

• Think beyond one book. What’s your next project? Agents and publishers want career writers, not just one-time authors.

Lesson learned: A writing career isn’t built on one book—it’s built on long-term planning, adaptability, and smart business decisions.

Lesson #5: Publishing Success Is About Persistence and Adaptability

Publishing is unpredictable. A book deal can fall through, market trends can shift, and setbacks are inevitable. Writers who succeed aren’t just talented—they’re adaptable, persistent, and business-savvy.

Some of the most successful authors today faced rejection early in their careers. Instead of quitting, they learned from feedback, adjusted their strategies, and kept pushing forward.

How to Apply This Lesson

• Be flexible. If one project doesn’t sell, start a new one.

• Keep learning. The publishing industry evolves—stay informed about trends, tools, and strategies.

• Don’t give up. Rejections, setbacks, and slow progress are part of the process—success comes to those who keep going.

Lesson learned: Writing is an art, but publishing is a business. The most successful writers learn to master both.

Treat Writing Like a Business, Not Just an Art

Publishing isn’t just about creativity—it’s about strategy, persistence, and business acumen. Writers who educate themselves on the industry, protect their rights, and take an active role in their careers are the ones who build sustainable success.

Writing a great book is just the beginning. Treating publishing like a business is what turns a writer into an author with a lasting career.