Those readers who followed my publishing story will know I approached two traditional publishers with the Business & Baby on Board manuscript before crowdfunding to self-publish the book myself.

Since then I’ve mentored several authors through various parts of the publishing process, including pitching their book idea to publishers. Many publishers have proposal guidelines listed on their websites, so I suggest you start there first to make sure you’re presenting the information in the correct format and sending on the right day.

If there are no set guidelines, I’ve included my outline for writing a killer proposal that will make publishers sit up and take notice.

Cover page

Start with the book title or working title and the words “Book Proposal”, followed by your name and any relevant credentials (such as your degree). On this page also include the date, your postal address, your employer or business name, contact phone number, email and website and/or blog.

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