Hello Stan – I realize it seems simpler to have your work on your website and have others come there to view it, but that goes against the expectations of our industry and increases your chances that your ideas or content may be used in ways that do not benefit you.

SUBMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

Agents have specific submissions requirements that should be followed. If your plan was to point agents to your website, that may not match their submissions requirements (e.g., complete an online form; if sending a query email, paste or attach the first few pages of the manuscript). Going against basic instructions from the get-go isn’t the best way to build a relationship.

HOPING TO BE DISCOVERED

It’s unlikely that an agent will find a writer’s website, review the manuscript there, then offer representation.

AI

With AI “scraping” data, putting a manuscript on your website exposes you to this risk. Also, ideas cannot be copyrighted. Posting a pitch or a partial or full manuscript on your website allows anyone to use your ideas.

REVISION

Having content on your website means remembering to update the website whenever you revise.

WHAT CAN YOU PUT ON YOUR WEBSITE THEN?

As a pre-published author or illustrator, it is essential to have a website. If you have published content that’s related to your children’s book writing or illustrating (story or art in a Highlights magazine, winning or placing in an SCBWI contest, and so forth), include that info. Before posting the actual piece, carefully read your contractual obligations first. It may be safer to point to where it was published via a link, crediting the publishing entity.

• Bio: Include a page with your bio showing some of your personality, a photo, and relevant information. You’re a high school teacher and you write YA? Or, you’re a veterinarian writing an MG about a character who wants to doctor pets? Tell us.
• Your style: Design the pages akin to how you are trying to position yourself as a creative. If you write fantasy, choose fonts, colors, and images that give a fantasy vibe. It’s possible to use images that aren’t your own; check the source and credit them accordingly. When image usage is unclear, email the source and ask for specifics before using the image.
• Contact information: Give people a way to get hold of you. Listing your email may lead to spam. Instead, use a captcha-enabled contact form.
• Social buttons: Add easy links for viewers to click on your socials. This demonstrates you’re active on social media; and an agent can quickly review your posts, interactions, and check how many followers you have.
• Call to action: It’s not too early to start asking people to sign up to receive emails from you. If you build a solid list of people who want to hear from you, then you’re ready to announce book deals, share good news, or reach out with a personal newsletter or blog.

CLOSING

Consider the benefits and risks carefully before posting your ideas or your manuscript on your website.

—Christine

HAVE QUESTIONS?

To ask a question that may be answered in an upcoming Kite Tales, please follow this link and fill in the form. Answers by Christine Van Zandt, children’s book author and owner of Write for Success Editing & Coaching Services.

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Photos by Jianying Chen, Jan-Roger Antonsen, Dean Fugate, and Johannes Plenio on pexels.com.