Self-Publishing Pros, Cons, And Checklists-Oh My!

Self-publishing is the process by which authors publish their books independently, bypassing the traditional publishing infrastructure. They handle every aspect of the book’s creation, from writing and editing to design, distribution, and marketing, often with the help of various services and platforms.

It has created a path for anyone with a story to tell to make their book available to the general public. But as with all things, self-publishing comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of self-publishing and provide some handy tips and checklists for aspiring self-publishers.

The Pros:

• • Complete creative and decision-making authority over the book’s content, design, and pricing.

• • Higher potential profit margins per sale, especially when using platforms like Amazon’s KDP.

• • Ability to update or change the content, cover, or other aspects of the book as needed.

The Cons:

• • Without a publisher’s backing, authors might incur costs for editing, design, and marketing.

• • Authors handle all aspects, from ISBN acquisition to distribution negotiations.

• • Without the marketing power of a traditional publisher, gaining visibility can be challenging.

You Don’t Have To Go This Alone

In self-publishing, authors act on their own behalf. While some might opt for consultants or specific services, there’s no need for literary agent representation.

But that doesn’t mean you have to go this alone. You can work with people who specialize in helping self-published authors have a successful launch and continued book marketing.

Here are a few people I would recommend who can help you:

• • Charles Levine (munnavenuepress.com): He is a guru at book marketing and hitting the sales mark.

• • Melaine Horschorn (vipbookmarketing.com): She has an awesome track record and is great at helping authors deliver their message.

To maximize your book’s visibility and sales, consider these steps:

• • Cultivate an online presence, whether through a personal website or a dedicated blog.

• • Engage proactively with potential readers on social media platforms.

• • Explore the benefits of ads or promotions on sites such as Amazon and Goodreads.

• • Actively seek out book reviews (this will do wonders for your books visibility!)

Remember, while you hold the reins, you’re in control of your book’s destiny. The key is to effectively showcase your book to your desired audience.

And finally, here are a few helpful checklists to get started!

Quick Step-by-Step Checklist to Self-Publishing a Book:

1. 1. Finalize Your Manuscript: Ensure it’s been thoroughly edited, proofread, and formatted properly.
   2. Choose a Self-Publishing Platform: Some popular platforms include Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), Smashwords, Lulu, and IngramSpark.
   3. Get an ISBN: Many platforms offer free ISBNs, but you can also purchase one for more control over the listing. This unique number identifies your book in the global marketplace.
   4. Design a Cover: Your cover should be professionally designed to capture attention. Platforms like KDP provide built-in cover creators, or you can hire a designer.
   5. Set Your Price: Research similar books in your genre to set a competitive price. Consider the costs of printing (if you’re offering physical copies) and the platform’s royalty structure.
   6. Upload Your Manuscript: Follow the guidelines specific to your chosen platform. Most platforms will convert your file into the appropriate format for e-readers or print.
   7. Set Distribution Channels: Decide if you want your book to be available exclusively on one platform (like KDP Select on Amazon) or if you’d like broader distribution across multiple outlets.
   8. Optimize Metadata: Ensure your title, description, and keywords are optimized to make your book discoverable to potential readers.
   9. Order A Test Copy: Make sure you like the feel and look of your book before you send it out into the world.
   10. Launch Your Book: Once you’ve completed all the steps, hit the “Publish” button. Depending on the platform, it might take a few hours to a few days for your book to be live.
   11. Promote: After publishing, promotion is key. Use social media, email newsletters, and other methods to let readers know your book is available for purchase.
   12. Monitor and Adjust: Track sales, read reviews, and be prepared to make adjustments if necessary. This could mean updating the book, changing the price, or tweaking marketing strategies.

Book Launch Plan Checklist:

1. 1. Pre-launch Buzz: Start creating excitement at least 3 months before the release. Tease cover reveals, share excerpts, and engage with your audience about your book’s themes or topics.
   2. Build an Email List: This allows you to have direct communication with your readers. Offering a free chapter or related content can entice sign-ups.
   3. Advanced Reader Copies (ARCs): Distribute ARCs to bloggers, influencers, and readers in exchange for honest reviews. Platforms like NetGalley or Goodreads can be helpful.
   4. Press Kit: Create a press kit containing a book synopsis, author bio, high-resolution cover images, and any positive reviews or endorsements.
   5. Launch Team: Rally a group of dedicated readers or supporters to help promote your book upon launch. They can help by posting reviews, sharing on social media, and spreading the word.
   6. Host a Virtual or Physical Book Launch: This could be a live webinar, a Facebook Live session, a local bookstore event, or any event where you engage with your audience directly.
   7. Promotions: Consider price promotions, bundle deals, or giveaways to incentivize purchases.
   8. Engage on Social Media: Regular posts, interactive polls, Q&A sessions, and other engaging content can keep the buzz alive.
   9. Leverage Book Bloggers & Podcasts: Approach bloggers in your genre or subject matter and pitch your book for reviews. Similarly, appearing on relevant podcasts can widen your audience reach.
   10. Post-Launch Analysis: Check sales, gather feedback, and see what worked best to refine your strategy for future launches or promotional activities.

Leverage Your Book into Bigger Opportunities

Remember, a book is not just a product. It can act as a launching pad for a multitude of opportunities. With strategic planning and proactive engagement, your book can be the start of many exciting ventures.

• • Speaking Engagements: Offer to speak at conferences, workshops, or webinars. Tailor your speech around the expertise you’ve showcased in your book.

• • Networking: Attend industry events or conventions and use your book as a conversation starter or business card.

• • Offer Workshops or Training: If your book is informational, consider offering workshops, training sessions, or courses based on its content.

• • High Ticket Clients: A book can be a pathway to attract high-end clients. For instance, if you’ve written about business strategies, CEOs or businesses might seek your consultancy based on the expertise you’ve displayed.

• • Ancillary Products: Develop additional products related to your book, such as workbooks, courses, merchandise, or follow-up books.

• • Licensing & Rights: If your book gains enough traction, there might be opportunities to sell foreign rights, audiobook rights, or even film/TV rights.

• • Membership Programs: Create a community around your book’s topic, where members get exclusive content, direct Q&A sessions, or advanced access to your next projects.

• • Guest Features: Be a guest on podcasts, YouTube channels, or TV shows to discuss your book’s topic. It boosts your profile and brings attention to your book.

Embrace the Learning Curve

Self-publishing is a journey with a steep learning curve. But the most important thing is that you are proud of the work and your book helps the people you need to help.

The more you get it out into the world, the more good it can do!