Contracts

• It is ok to say no to a contract . . . remember it is your work.
• Think ahead.  If you might turn this short story into a book or this book into a screenplay, do not sign your rights away without those things being accounted for.
• Do not be afraid to negotiate.  You may want it all, and they may want it all, but somewhere in the middle there is room to compromise and both editor and writer can be happy.
• Sometimes you need to consider if your thoughts and ideals are worth more than monetary gain.  Sometimes an idea cannot be compromised over a price tag.
• It is good to know what the standards are in the industry.  This insures you don’t get taken by an editor who knows you are new to the business.
• Remember to check out websites that monitor agents and publishers.  www.anotherealm.com/prededitors is a great resource for this. They are pretty current and thorough. In most cases editors and publishers are honest and forthcoming, but it is prudent to check up on it to make certain especially when you're dealing with a relatively new or unheard of press.