Self-publishing no longer has the stigma it once had, but what does it mean to self-publish? How would you answer this question?
The simple answer is—it means to publish one’s own book.
Well, yes, but doesn’t it indicate an author is actually taking on the role of a publisher? Yes, but even more.
Here is a list of activities one must consider to successfully place a book in the hands of readers.
- Build a professional website
- Develop a social media platform
- Determine the target market of readers
- Develop a team of beta readers
- Determine the return on investment (ROI)
- Critique the manuscript
- Objectively read the manuscript
- Edit the manuscript
- Format the manuscript
- Recruit influencers for blurbs
- Graphically design the cover
- Purchase the ISBN number
- Determine the price of the book
- Enlist advertisers for the back pages of the book
- Print a quality book
- Format an e-book and place it on Internet sellers’ sites
- Produce a quality book trailer
- Distribute the book to book sellers
- Promote the book
- Set up book signings
- Set up speaking engagements
- Set up radio and TV interviews
- Send out press releases
- Secure a publicist
- Advertise on radio/TV and in newspapers
- Determine the social media strategy
This is not an all-inclusive list, but, most likely, is much more than many authors have considered.
The publishing industry has dramatically changed in the last three years (since 2011). It can be safely said that it comes down to who is willing to pay for the printing process.
Regardless of whether it is a traditional publishing company or the author — the author will do all of the marketing.
It is important that the author determine her core competencies and plan to outsource what she cannot do to maximize sales.
Change something today to make your tomorrow better.
Tom Blubaugh
Literary Strategist, LLC
TomBlubaugh.net
tom@tomblubaugh.net
417-812-6110