31 December 2016

Self Publishing PROs and CONs




If you’re at the stage of wishing to publish your manuscript you may be procrastinating because unlike in days gone by, authors now have a choice. That choice is whether to search for a traditional publisher who is willing to accept your manuscript or to self publish.

In making your decision, there’s a lot to consider and that's why I’ve put together a list of pros and cons to ponder. We’ll start with the PROS!



Self publishing PROS

  • You don’t have to wait months to hear whether agents/publishers will accept or reject your book. 
  • Unlike being traditionally published where you could wait many months before your book is published, you can submit your book to an online retailer whenever you wish. 
  • With eBooks, you will earn a higher percentage of royalties if you self publish. Up to 70% in the case of Amazon/Kindle Direct Publishing. 
  • You will receive your royalty payments on a regular basis. In the case of Amazon, at the end of each month. 
  • You’re at the helm and in control. You can choose your cover, which on-line retailers to sell through as well as the price. 
  • The word count of your book is up to you as is the subject matter. 
  • Once published, you have direct access to your book’s sales information and marketing.

 Self publishing CONS

  • Since you are in control, you are virtually taking on the running of a small business. This means you will be responsible for marketing, any problems that might come up along the way as well as making sure you fulfil your obligation concerning a legal deposit of your work to your country’s library system. 
  • If you wish to purchase your own ISBN and Barcode for your paperback, you will have to bare this cost. 
  • Unless you are a graphic designer, you will have to employ a professional to design your book’s cover. 
  • Your book has to be the best it can be before you self publish so it is wise not only to have your manuscript edited by a professional but also to have a manuscript assessment performed. 
  • Bookshops don’t tend to stock self-published books. 
  • Your self-published book may not be viewed with the prestige given to a traditionally published book. 
  • Once published, marketing your book is up to you alone along with the cost.

 Finally, if you do decide to go down the self-publishing road, there’s a lot of information out there to help you including Amazons/Kindle Direct Publishing/Createspace and Smashwords where each site guides you along the way.