Self publishing is changing the world of publishing, and there are many reasons why authors, even people who previously used traditional publishing firms, are turning towards self publishing. Once you learn more about self publishing, you may just find that you love this option, too. Here are four reasons why:
1. Control
With traditional publishing, the author has very little control over the fate of his or her book. Editors and agents decide if your book is print worthy. The publishing firm decides the cover art, layout, and price point for your book. Once you hand over your manuscript to a traditional publishing company, you are giving up control. With self publishing, you are in charge. You decide when your manuscript is ready to be published, and you control the final outcome.
2. Quality
The quality of POD books has come a long way. In addition to better printing quality and a wider variety of formatting options, many self publishing companies offer a variety of professional services (for example, editing and cover design) to ensure that you publish the best book possible. If you want to produce a book of excellent quality, you can.
3. Speed
Traditional publishing is a slow process. There is the dreaded query letters. The time spent waiting to hear back from agents or editors. If your book does get picked up by a firm, it can take over a year to see your book in print. The self publishing process is often completed within a few months (or even just a few weeks). Not only does this mean you don’t have to wait to see your book in print, but it also opens up even more doors for authors. You can now publish books that are current and in response to readers’ desires.
4. Diversity
Traditional publishing is all about making money. Editors are looking for books that they know will sell large quantities. They want books that appeal to the mass market, but not all authors are targeting the mass market. Self publishing allows you to write for a niche market.
I’d love to know, why do you love self publishing?
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ABOUT KELLY SCHUKNECHT: Kelly Schuknecht is the Vice President of Outskirts Press. In addition to her contributions to the Outskirts Press blog at blog.outskirtspress.com, Kelly and a group of talented marketing experts offer book marketing services, support, and products to not only published Outskirts Press authors, but to all authors and professionals who are interested in marketing their books and/or careers. Learn more about Kelly on her blog at http://kellyschuknecht.com. |
Self Publishing Advisor 