Things to Consider When Preparing to Self-Publish a Book
If you’ve made the decision to self-publish your work, congrats! You’re taking a huge step in owning the entire process and taking full control of each part of your book’s development. And being the captain of your publishing journey also means wearing many hats. One of which will essentially be a project manager. You’ll need to keep track of all the moving parts of your book’s progress, from editing to marketing.
Here’s a quick list of things to consider in your book planning and kickstart your personal research.
Editing
Be sure to research and choose an editor that specializes in your specific genre and age group. Knowing what an editor is actually interested in reading and having their interests align with your work is a huge plus in the author-editor partnership.
It’s also helpful to know if an editor has prior experience working with self-published authors.
Arranging a consult or quick intro meeting with an editor before working together can ensure they connect with and understand both you and your work.
Developmental editors will know how to assist you best when you can present them with a book proposal, which includes an author bio, book description and reading sample.
Art & Design
Take a look at a designer’s portfolio and/or public social media account(s) to ensure their work and style aligns with your vision for your book’s cover.
Providing designers with a cover brief is a great way to kick off book projects after editing is complete (Psst! We have a free and downloadable template ready for you here).
If you’re developing a picture book, would like an illustrated cover or need any interior art for your book, you’ll most likely need an artist as well. Begin your search on our Freelance Directory, where we’ve featured some amazingly talented illustrators.
Start thinking about information your designer will need before starting the project, like the book’s trim size, an estimated page count, target publication date, and where it’ll be printed.
Printing
There are a few factors to consider when selecting a printing method best suited for your needs. Keep things like storage, distribution, cost, and quantity top of mind when researching print-on-demand (digital) or offset (bulk) printing vendors.
Your designer will set up your book’s files based on a print vendor’s required specifications. Although certain book sizes are universal, different vendors may have varying spec requirements. So to ensure precise measurements during file setup try to research and connect with a vendor before the book components are designed.
Be sure to select a printer that can print the format (picture books, graphic novel, paper-over-board, etc.), quantity and effects you need for your book.
Print effects like spot gloss, emboss, and matte lamination are just a few options for a fun finishing touch you can add to your book.
Marketing
Create a list of any local indie bookstores and cafes that could potentially stock your book. Don’t sleep on the age old method of walking into stores and handing out your book!
Find a distributor, like Ingram, Amazon or Bookshop, that can help sell your books to a wider audience.
Social media can help drive sales, promotion, and build lots of buzz around your book’s launch. So having an active online presence overall is a huge part of gaining new, dedicated readers along with support for your book.
Be sure to request early and post-pub reviews! Fellow writers, bloggers, and social media followers are great places to start. Positive reviews also play a big part in promoting your work as they can be used for cover blurbs, designed marketing materials, and on distributor websites.
We hope these quick and general considerations will help set you up for success in self-publishing your next book!