Independent Publishing
Apr 11
Why take on assembling the experts you need (a book publishing coach, an editor, a cover and interior designer, printer, distributor, etc.) to go it alone? Why not hold out until a traditional publisher offers you a contract?
Because in our current difficult economy that contract offer may never come. Typically, if you are not of semi-celebrity status or you have not established a national "platform," a publisher (or agent) believes they cannot "sell" you, and therefore cannot visualize a profit from investing time and money in your book. Here are 7 persuasive reasons to "self" publish:
- There's far more potential for profit when you independently publish
- You are the CEO of your newly-formed company, you run the whole show
- You maintain complete creative and business control
- You can get your book produced faster — in 6-12 months vs. 2-3 years
- You can keep it in print as long as you like
- You retain all rights
- You promote yourself as the expert you are
On the other hand,
- You do foot the whole bill
- There is a steep learning curve for first-timers
- There are a lot of details to organize and to keep track of — plus many potential hidden expenses
- You will need to learn about today's publishing industry and its seasonal cycles
- An abundance of time, energy, money and passion is required
- Hiring a publishing coach or mentor is highly advisable
