The business of self-publishing
Posted By Sue Collier on November 13, 2009
A commercial publisher looks upon any new book as an investment of its resources as this publisher wants to make a profit. Book publishers are interested in books that fit their specialty, fit a market niche, and will sell well enough to make money. Questions for aspiring authors to consider before publishing: Ultimately, authors must also decide upon their goal for the book. Is it to make money off book sales? Is it to establish “expert” status in your field? Is it to serve as a platform on which to base a consulting career? Your reason for publishing should be an important consideration in deciding on how many resources you intend to invest in the project.
Self-publishers need to approach their venture in the same way. So set aside your subjective evaluation of your work and look at your book from a publisher’s perspective.
Very succinct and to the point, Sue, thanks. I raise many of these points with clients and I'm sure you do too. Sometimes it seems that helping clients get clarity about what they intend to do, and why, is a large part of my job.
Thanks, Joel. I appreciate you reading–and your comments!
[...] Most writers I speak to are quite passionate about the craft of writing. The business of publishing, however, is another story for many of them. But once you commit to self-publishing—if you do it right—you are no longer just an author. You are a publisher running a business. [...]
[...] Most writers I speak to are quite passionate about the craft of writing. The business of publishing, however, is another story for many of them. But once you commit to self-publishing—if you do it right—you are no longer just an author. You are a publisher running a business. [...]