If you are looking to be published, it is important to make sure you are dealing with a legitimate publishing company. Unfortunately, there are some unscrupulous publishers who are out to make a quick buck.
Here are some tips to help you tell if a publishing company is legitimate:
Do Your Research: Take the time to research the company and read reviews. Check out their website and look for customer reviews or complaints on trusted sites like the Better Business Bureau.
Look for References: If a company is legitimate, they should be willing to provide references or contacts of authors they have published.
Check Credibility: A legitimate publisher should be registered with a professional trade organization like the Association of American Publishers, or AAP.
Review Their Terms of Agreement: Legitimate companies will have a clear and concise agreement that outlines the rights and responsibilities of both the publisher and author. Be wary of any companies not willing to provide a contract.
Don't Pay: Legitimate publishing companies don't ask authors to pay to be published. Any company that requests payment is likely to be a vanity press and not a real publishing opportunity.
By doing your homework and following these tips, you can make sure you are dealing with a legitimate publishing company and not a predatory or unscrupulous one. Good luck!