Today the number of resources available with the click of a mouse has given authors an alternative route to traditional publishing. Now, writers are reaching a publishing roadblock on their venture for literary success. Can I do it on my own?
Taking this next step can be both gratifying and challenging for any author. With websites such asAmazon.com now promoting self-publishing, it appears that anyone can do it. Although self-publishing has had successful results, it is by no means your ticket to Easy Street.
To keep you pushing along and build up some motivation- remember why you’ve decided to travel down this road – you know you can do it! Here are some reasons why self-publishing rocks and when all else fails keep saying: I think I can, I think I can, I think I can…..
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10 PROS OF SELF-PUBLISHING
Creativity: When working with a publisher, expect most control over the publication process of your book. As a self-publisher, encourage your own creativity! You have the opportunity to bring your personality to each step of the project.
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Build Your Brand: Become the best in your field of study. Take this opportunity to develop your expertise and build your credibility in the content of your book. (Speaking, Lectures, Seminars, Media appearances)
Flexibility: No deadlines, No problem! As a self-publisher you have complete authority over your agenda. This eliminates the hassle of conflicting schedules and the stress of meeting deadlines. Plus, it is easier to implement changes along the way.
Profit: Supporting yourself in the publication process can be financially risky. If your book is successful, working alone can allow you to profit a higher percentage of book sales rather than only receiving royalties from publishers.
Time: Publishing companies have their calendars and schedules filled with aspiring authors. For you, this may mean weeks, months, even a year, to see results. In comparison, self-publishing is a swift approach.
Thought Leadership: As a self-publisher, you have the opportunity to build your platform and promote yourself as anauthor. Take the time to develop each dimension of yourself as a professional. This may include working on your personal blog & website content, completing related research to your book, etc. This is a great way to slowly build your credibility as a distinguished author!
Book Cover/Title: As mentioned above, publishers take control over most decisions regarding your book, including cover artwork & title. Self-publishing allows you to have a final say in both!
Rights: Working solo means you own everything that involves your book. This includes all legal rights regarding sales, movie rights, print rights, etc.
Resources: Self-publishers are given a number of useful resources dedicated to easing the process. From online editor directories, self-help guide books, and tutorials, anyone can be a self-publisher.
Check out: Untreed Reads, LuLu, Blurb, Amazon Self-Publishing
Opportunity: Putting your book out there through self-publishing is also a way to catch the attention of publishers later down the road. If working with a publisher is your ultimate goal, self-publishing is a great first step!
As you weigh out your options, take into consideration that ultimately you, the author, knows what will work best for your book. Good luck and happy publishing!
