American Idol. Project Runway. America’s Next Top Model. Your Self-Published Novel. What do all of these have in common?

Credibility.

Reality television is unavoidable these days and a guilty pleasure for many of us. I’m hooked on a couple of them and now my roomie is too (although I promised not to tell, so mum’s the word, k?). When I watch these shows I can’t help but wonder what the professionals in these various parts of the industry think of the winners.

I’ve read enough articles in Rolling Stone to see that many are surprised when one of the American Idols hit the top ten with more than just bubblegum pop. There have been a few singers I’ve heard on the radio over the last few years that made me sit up and pay attention when they produce a song I actually like and want to hear again or - gasp - even plunk down the cash on a whole album.

Fashion? I wouldn’t know if a Top Model winner or a Project Runway contestant hit the big time after the competition or got lost in the “Where Are They Now?” file.

Self-Published novels? This is where it gets trickier. If you go into a book store, you won’t find a little badge on the cover that says “Self-Published”. One book looks like any other book. It’s got a nifty cover to attract your attention and many pages of someone’s hard work sandwiched in-between.

All the books in that store or in your browser are competing for your attention and whether you read it or not isn’t going to hinge on whether the author went through a vanity press or has a contract. We now continue our discussion that started last week with Greg and Wendi.

I Am So a Real Writer!

Here’s where the eternal debate begins: What makes a writer a real writer? Is it the moment you publish your first blog post? Or is it the first time you get something other than a rejection notice for that manuscript you sent out?

Many people, when you tell them you’ve self-published, will turn up their noses and say it doesn’t count. You haven’t made it big time until you have a contract in your hand and you’re on Barne’s and Noble’s top ten shelf. They’ll say today it’s too easy for anyone to publish whatever they like, even if it’s crap.

That may be so, however, you’re the one with a published book in your hand. That’s got to count for something.

Majoring in BS

Some would also argue that unless you have a college degree, you’re nothing. And there is the other side of the fence that says the degree means nothing.

When it comes to writing a novel and getting it published, you certainly don’t need a degree in writing. Nor do you need a degree to do design, to cook, to be an interior decorator or a fashion designer.

Not mandatory, no, but it does help as far as honing your technical skills go. But that’s a post for another time. The connection here between degrees and self-publishing is credibility. Let’s say person A and person B go for an interview. Both are equally talented, have incredible portfolios, and have an amazing resume. What do you think the tie-breaker is?

That little piece of paper that says person B is a certified professional.

Sad but true, that’s the way the world turns.

There’s Always An Exception

Once in a while someone breaks out of the box. They take a chance on talent and skills alone. They manage to fight their way to the top and get noticed.

It’s a harder road, but not an impossible one. It just took a little longer and a little extra elbow grease.

And some collateral. Can’t forget that.

Or sheer luck. But don’t count on that alone. Keep trying to make your own luck.

Real success is born from ingenuity, knowing your tools and how to use them to your best advantage. On Wednesday, Greg gave some very good advice about self-publishing. In that post he posed the question: Why not do both?

Duh! Yes! Why not self-publish, get your story out there AND scope out a contract at the same time? Couldn’t hurt and makes all the sense in the world.

Personally, self-publishing to me is as legit as anything else. When I hear of a close friend self-publishing I’m happy for them. I also get warm fuzzies when they send me a copy of that book and I can hold it in my hands. I don’t just see paper and ink. I see a hard won accomplishment.

Freedom of the Press! That’s what it’s all about! This is your dream made real! There’s a big difference between “Anyone can do it” and “Anyone can do it, but can they do it right?”

One of my favorite quotes comes from the dancer/actor/director/writer/producer, Gene Kelly:

“Everyone is born with two legs, but not everyone can dance.”

Nicely said, Mr. Kelly, and so very true. I would like to modify that a bit to say that while everyone is born with two legs, not everyone should dance. *coughElainBennettcough*

So, what do you think? Does self-publishing build or diminish credibility? Is it worthless because anyone can do it? Or is it a valuable tool that helps authors on their way to the Best Sellers list?

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