Tips for Self-Publishing
How to self publish your book? looking for ideas? What the H E double hockey sticks do I do now? is the stage you’re at after having a concept and possibly a whole book. Take a big breath first. Together, let’s take a four-and-six breath cycle to get through this.
My first self-publishing advice is to establish your version of success and to be reasonable.
There’s a strong probability that you have something extraordinary on your hands, but conventional “success” won’t happen right away. It’s a difficult route, but it can be rewarding in ways more than just financial. It’s generally wise to reconsider your employment choice or add side hustles if making money is your primary goal.
Fundamentals of Self-Publishing
The three most typical methods for self-publishing a book are as follows:
- publishing entirely on your own dime. This option allows you to employ any freelance help you might require, but it also covers working with book merchants and distributors to distribute your book. Being your own distributor is another option.
- By paying a service provider to help you, you can self-publish.
- Use a hybrid publisher.
Because I choose to pursue Option 1 for my particular situation, my knowledge of this procedure is the result of trial and error.
Offset Printing vs. Print on Demand
The following steps entail addressing 3 crucial factors. These elements will enable you to decide if print on demand (POD) or conventional offset printing is the best option for you. And which route to choose. Consider the following inquiries for yourself:
- Where and how will you market your creations?
- Where are you trying to increase sales?
- How much can you spend?
I personally use Amazon KDP, which is a free option for publishing your book on Amazon in paperback, hardcover, and e-book editions with the only fee being a cut of any sales you generate.
Every three months, you automatically get any royalties that are owing to you. Overall, I think this is a fantastic choice, but especially if, like me, you don’t have much money to work with.
A side note: I wouldn’t advise using e-book formats if your book has a lot of illustrations or is geared toward children because they don’t convert well at all and there isn’t as much demand for children’s e-books as there is for adult books.
How to Print Your Book
I also print my own copies of my books because the books produced by KDP don’t come in the sizes, paper textures, or other configurations I’d prefer. Instead, I utilize Digital Printing UK, where I have complete control over every aspect, even the quantity.
A pre-order campaign is a terrific method to estimate how many volumes you’ll need before getting carried away and ordering more than you can afford, store, or sell, I discovered after publishing my first book.
Please keep in mind that the expenses for children’s books and illustrated books will be greater. Than, for merely text-based publications if you decide to go that path.
I am fortunate to work with my husband, a talented graphic artist who also draws my books, but if you don’t know anyone directly, this additional expense will apply to you as well.
Integrated Publishing
Please use particular caution if you decide to hire someone to publish on your behalf or believe you are in a position to hybrid publish. There are many con artists. Out there who will take your money and never deliver on what they promised you. Having more money does not automatically ensure success.
Before you sign anything or transfer any money to the companies or publication, do your homework on them. Check out their websites and conduct a separate search for the authors and books they claim to have assisted in the past.
These businesses can make it seem like they have the answer to all your problems, which may seem obvious when you’ve worked so hard on something and are just desperate for it to be released.
Self-Published Book Editing
I would advise having your book edited to a competent grade before to actually selling it. I can do the necessary corrections because my novels are for youngsters, but if your book has more than 300 pages, I’d suggest hiring a professional editor.
Streams of Sales for Your Book
Although it doesn’t have to be a pipe dream for self-publishing, all authors and writers would love to see their books on the shelves of Waterstone’s, WH Smiths, and even supermarkets. However, be aware that it will take time and a lot of hard work behind the scenes.
You must register with Nielsen and then get in touch with wholesalers and suppliers to negotiate a contract before your book can even be considered by bookstores or libraries like Waterstones.
For starters, you can sell on your own website if you only intend to distribute to close family and friends. However, if you want to sell to the general public, wholesalers, suppliers, etc., you must purchase an ISBN.
What does an ISBN stand for?
International Standard Book Number, or ISBN, is a distinct thirteen-digit number created especially for your book. You may easily register for an ISBN online; I personally use the website of the Independent Publishing Network, although Nielsen and many other websites. Also offer purchasing alternatives.
An ISBN costs about £89, and some businesses might add on additional fees for barcodes. Unfortunately, you will require a different ISBN for each format if you intend to sell your book in paperback and hardback. The good news is that ISBNs never expire, so once you buy one, you own it forever and don’t need to renew it.
All UK publications with ISBNs are required by law to transmit one copy of their publications to the British Library within one month of their registration and publishing. You are required by law to comply with their request and to provide any more copies that they or any of the six UK national libraries may need.
Getting Your Self-Published Book Noticed
This is the moment when you really need to stay grounded and think about your personal definition of success. Social media is a fantastic too. and for promotion, but be honest with yourself about how much time you can commit to posting, tracking trends, etc. Many people will review your book in exchange for a tiny payment.
Make sure your book has a catchy slogan or blurb. Buyers are always attracted by attention to detail, and you want them to want your book. Similar to this, having a strong author biography can be helpful.
If your book is text-based, you also have the choice of maximizing your distribution through outlets like the Apple iBookstore and Google Play Store. You might even consider producing your own audiobook. With a network of more than 65 million users, the Goodreads Author Program is unquestionably something you should consider joining as a promotional tool.
Last but not least, although I understand that writing may be enjoyed in solitude, I believe that having writer friends will be a big assistance. On this path, not only for promotion. But also for support and refreshment when you need it most.
Last thoughts
Self-publishing is not recommended for individuals who are weak of heart. Or just looking to make a fast profit. For me, it has been one of the most thrilling and mind-blowing experiences to date, and I continue to learn from it.
I wish you the best of luck ! If you decide to go on the voyage, and by all means, get in touch with me or find me on social media by visiting my website, Made You Co. There are links to my books for sale as well as more of my writing.
Hard to love. Be a lion. Horns raised :0
