If you’re dreaming of publishing a groundbreaking book, the first step is crafting a compelling book proposal. Back in late 2011, after orchestrating my own layoff, I was set on securing a literary agent and a book deal to share my severance negotiation strategies. Although I retired on a Hawaiian beach, my initial attempts to get published—sending my proposal to about 15 agents—met with silence. Undeterred, with support from my dad and wife, I forged ahead with self-publishing.
Since 2009, I’ve been exploring early retirement on my blog, Financial Samurai. My interactions with many who faced similar challenges highlighted a widespread struggle with quitting jobs that provided a stable income despite personal dissatisfaction. This inspired the idea for my book: what if more people could secure a financial cushion when they left their jobs? A severance package could make transitions into new life stages—like early retirement, entrepreneurship, or further education—smoother and more feasible.
This book proposal, once ignored, ultimately laid the foundation for a successful self-published guide that has generated over $550,000 in profits since 2012. Initially, the book didn’t make much—about $10,000 a year. However, with continual updates and expansions, its earnings have quintupled. Had I secured a traditional book deal back in 2012, I might have settled for a mere $25,000 advance. Looking back, the rejections were a blessing in disguise as they taught me resilience and allowed me to appreciate successes more deeply.
In late 2019, after nearly a decade of perseverance and writing, I landed a book deal without needing a new proposal, thanks to a publisher who reached out directly. This unexpected opportunity led to my next project during the pandemic in 2020, “Buy This Not That.” My journey through publishing has taught me the value of persistence and self-belief in the face of rejection.
Here’s a glimpse of my original proposal, untouched for 11 years until a serendipitous find in my Google Drive:
Title: How To Engineer Your Layoff: Make A Small Fortune and Live The Life You’ve Always Wanted
Overview:
This book targets the vast number of employees, both disgruntled and otherwise, who eventually look to leave their jobs. It offers a strategic plan to negotiate severance packages effectively, enriching readers with the knowledge to secure a graceful exit that benefits their financial future.
Unique Selling Proposition:
Unlike typical career guides that focus on entering a job, this book provides a roadmap for exiting one with financial gain. Drawing from personal experiences and detailed case studies, the book empowers employees to negotiate their severance successfully.
Content Structure:
The book spans 16 chapters, covering various aspects from building essential workplace relationships to detailed negotiation tactics for securing the best possible severance package.
Target Audience:
From the unsatisfied 44% of American workers to those simply planning ahead for their eventual exit from the workforce, this book appeals to a broad audience. It offers valuable insights for those looking to step away from their careers, regardless of the reason.
Marketability:
Leveraging my platform from Financial Samurai and connections within the personal finance community, the book’s reach extends well beyond traditional publication methods, promising extensive visibility and impact.
This proposal, though once overlooked, captures the essence of a much-needed guide in today’s work culture. It underscores the importance of understanding and leveraging one’s rights as an employee and preparing financially for life beyond the office.
Despite the initial rejections, this journey underscores the power of resilience and self-belief. For anyone looking to publish, remember: rejections are merely redirections guiding you to greater opportunities. Whether it leads to self-publishing or eventually landing a deal, persistence and a strong personal platform can dramatically shift your path to success.
