Tips for Self-Publishing A Book

Self-publishing a book can be an overwhelming process, but it can be accomplished with some guidance, time, and a lot of patience. I have compiled a short list of tips for self-publishing success.

Write and Edit Your Manuscript

Write a Must-Read Book: This may seem obvious, but you should write your book for your readers. Even a nonfiction book needs to be able to hold the reader’s attention. Reduce unnecessary or repetitive content, develop believable character arcs, and use engaging dialogue. Picture reading the book aloud to listeners and write what would hold their attention.  Avoid rushing the writing process and allow time for several revisions.

Beta Reading: A new trend in writing is hiring or finding beta readers to provide feedback and do market research. Find readers from your target audience, and do not become disheartened by any negative feedback. Writing a great book is a growing process.

Professional Editing: Several programs, such as Fictionary and ProWritingAid, are available to assist with self-editing and improving readability. These programs are tools and not substitutes for hiring a professional editor. Self-editing programs can reduce the amount of work that a professional editor needs to do, which saves money. 

Design an Eye-Catching Cover

Hire a Designer: A well-designed book cover will be a snapshot of your story and draw the eyes of your target readers. The book cover entices your target audience to pick up your book and make a purchase.

DIY: If budget is a concern, graphic design programs can help. However, using stock content from the programs can muddy the ownership of your design. 

Prepare Metadata and Distribution

Metadata Preparation: The number of people reading ebooks and shopping online continues to rise every year. Ensure the book title, description, and keywords appeal to your targeted audience, and search engines. This can be delegated to a professional, or online tools like AnswerThePublic, SEMrush, and Google Keyword Planner can help.

Distribution Platform: IngramSpark and Kindle Direct Publishing are the two biggest distribution platforms. Consult with other writers about the pros and cons of each program, read the publishing requirements, review ownership rights and whether you can publish to multiple platforms simultaneously.

Marketing Strategies

Early Marketing: Start marketing your book before publication. Hiring a professional marketer will free up your time and provide the best results. Effective marketing is not learned overnight, and it takes time to learn the ins and outs of the different marketing channels available. 

Targeted Ads: One channel to consider is targeted ads on platforms like Amazon or Facebook. Before shelling out your entire marketing budget on an ad, test which ads generate the most interest and engagement.

Professional Reviews: Find a reputable source to review your book, like Kirkus or BlueInk. Having a professional review will increase the credibility of your work. 

Budgeting and Cost Management

Plan Your Budget: Self-publishing may cost less than traditional publishing, but money will be required. Create a budget that includes editing, cover design, marketing, and other expenses. You can pay others, or you can pay in sweat equity by taking on all the responsibility.

DIY: Sign up for free or low-cost classes to learn as much as possible in these areas. Find free trials of software to use, and do your research. 

Set Realistic Expectations

Understand the Market: Self-publishing takes time and a lot of work. It is easy to be disappointed when something you have worked so hard on is not giving the return you imagined. Research the trends and tropes for your genre. Set realistic financial and readership expectations. 

Don't forget to have fun on the journey to self-publish a book

*This content is not sponsored by, endorsed by, or affiliated with any company or product mentioned.