Build your own review or blog site

The majority of book reviewers begin by putting up their own review site. This allows them to showcase their reviewing skills. They can even choose to specialize in reviewing a specific genre. Many reviewers don’t want to limit themselves to reviewing a particular genre for the sake of versatility. Other seasoned reviewers recommend that you specialize. It’s your choice.

Note that as a beginning reviewer, you will have to shoulder the cost of the newly-released books that you review. In the long run, once you have built a sizeable portfolio, publishers and independent authors would seek you out. You can then get free books and get paid to review them.

Do not expect huge payments. Any independent book reviewer will tell you that they review books for the love of reading. However, reviewers employed by major publications do get regular salaries and benefits. A full-time employed reviewer is another option you can consider.

More on getting paid

Of course, you don’t want to review books for free for the rest of your life. At some point, you will be reaping the benefits of your dedication to the craft. However, an excellent portfolio doesn’t guarantee those big publishers will come begging at your doorstep. If you want to get paid for your work, don’t aim for the big publishers yet.

Consider review sites as alternatives. Look for those that are searching for reviewers. Most of them do and they will tell you their guidelines as well as terms and conditions for reviewing. Follow their instructions on how to become a book reviewer. Most of the time, they will ask for your credentials and samples.

Tap the literary publications

Literary publications and journals are other markets that you should check out. These publications are always on the lookout for the next Harold Bloom or Michiko Kakutani. Book reviews are a staple item in these publications as they cater to a well-informed audience. Your list of credentials comes useful here. Make sure to mention in your brief bio where you have been previously published.

Do not submit to a single publication. Create your presence by submitting to as many companies and sites as you can. Different companies have different guidelines, and you can learn something from their respective formats.

Join the National Book Critics Circle (NBCC)

The NBCC is a huge organization of writers and critics. They honor exemplary writing and they cultivate a collective passion for reading, criticism, and literature. Joining a critic group can boost your credibility and authority as a book reviewer. Critic groups like the NBCC provide benefits to their members that include voting privileges, access to publication directories, and discounts on subscriptions. They also serve as a network for writers and critics.

Now that you are armed with awesome publishing credits, and you know where to submit, be prepared to get rejected. Yes, you will get rejected countless times. This is what separates the talented yet persistent from the cringing reviewer. Rejection will be a part of your way to success. But with great experience at your side, why would you let rejection suddenly stop you? It sounds unique when you are at a party and you tell someone that you are a book reviewer. Not everyone can boast that.

Remember: There are no failures in life. Success is only delayed.