Self Publishing Your Way to Success

Why do you want to self publish your narrative? Do you want control over the process? Do you want to determine your financial outcome? Or you have made several submissions, and a publisher will not accept your manuscript? Before starting on your journey to self publishing success there are many factors to consider. First, you must do your homework. Your research will help develop realistic goals. Second, focus on producing a quality and saleable product. And third, speak up and speak out about your book. Homework time! Start by researching your self. Are you willing to make sacrifices of time and financial resources to implement your project? Do you have the passion, drive, energy, and time to devote to turning your manuscript into a book? Sometimes the idea will be planted as a seed, but the actual harvest for production will come at a later time. Realistically think about how you will finance the production and marketing of your book. Do you have the money in the bank? Can you obtain a loan or partner with someone? Carefully examining the financial output required will help determine if self publishing is the road you should travel. Research the genre that your book will be categorized. Know who your target audience will be in order to plan your marketing strategy. Walk through bookstores and libraries to observe your competition. Notice the quality of the books, the cover designs, the titles, and the prices. Can your book compete? The cover design will speak volumes about the quality and content of your book as well as your book's title. The title should be captivating and able to draw in the reader. Price is another important factor that determines your success. If the price is too high compared to similar books, then you risk losing buyers. However, if you under price the book, then buyers may think it lacks quality, but also keep in mind the total cost of producing your book. You do want to make a profit! Producing a quality book also requires professional proofreading and editing. Ask several different people to read your manuscript, and most importantly, have your manuscript professionally edited. Skimping on paying for professional assistance may result in lower sales, and also, limit your ability to have your book sold in bookstores. The book industry is very detailed and precise. Know the specifications that bookstores require to sell your product in their stores. Each book must have a UPC barcode, an ISBN number, and binding standards. The next important stage to success is to network...stay tuned for more details!