So you finally turned that great book idea into a finished manuscript and you want to get it published. The first thing you will need to do is find a writers agent. The first step is to identify agents that you want to court. Writers agents come in all shapes and sizes, so find a reputable one who works with the kind of book you have created. They will usually have instructions for how to submit to them. No, this doesn’t mean how to salute when saying “yes ma’am”. Usually they will specific instructions for what should be in your initial query letter and a two page synopsis.
The query letter should tell them why you feel your book is a good fit for the kinds of works they promote. It should also give a one paragraph summary of your book that leaves them wanting more. Note, that leaving them wanting more is different from leaving them confused. They should have a good, clear idea of what your book is about, and still have a feeling that they wish they could read the book. Your query letter will also need to tell them a little bit about you as a writer. The more credits you have to your name the better. It is a good idea for a beginning writer to try to get articles published in magazines or small newspapers to that you can build up a resume.
There are whole books on how to write a successful synopsis. Take the time to learn about the industry standards so that you look like a professional.
Along the way it is good to find friends who are also writers in the same career stage that you are in. Friends are a very valuable source of networking and support. One way to do this is to find an online writing community or social networking site for writers.
Once an agent picks up your book, they will work with you to edit it and then submit it to publishing companies. Once there is an offer, your agent will help negotiate the contract to make sure that you get the best possible deal. You know they will work for you, since they are getting a cut of the contract.
Once your book gets printed, you will no longer be asking how to get a published book, but how to get your book to sell! One common misconception is that once you are a published author, you are home free and will collect royalties for the rest of your life. While large publishers do have an in with book stores, you will need to actively promote your book in order to make it attractive to both the people who buy books for the book store shelves and off of the book store shelves!