I’ve been in self-publishing for 20 years. Self-publishing has revolutionized the way authors bring their work to the public, democratizing the publishing industry by allowing more voices to be heard without the traditional gatekeeping barriers. However, aspiring authors often discover that the self-publishing route comes with its own set of unexpected twists and turns. Here are five surprising facts about self-publishing that you might not know:
1. Marketing is Your Job
Many authors dive into self-publishing with the enthusiasm of a passionate writer but soon realize that writing is just the beginning. Once your book is published, the hefty task of marketing falls entirely on your shoulders. Unlike traditional publishing, where the publisher usually handles the bulk of the marketing and distribution efforts, self-publishing means you are the strategist, promoter, and salesperson. This involves everything from setting up book signings, managing social media, and even negotiating with retailers. It’s a continuous effort that can be just as demanding as the writing itself.
2. Quality Control is in Your Hands
One of the most empowering aspects of self-publishing is also a daunting responsibility: quality control. In traditional publishing, an army of editors, proofreaders, and designers work to polish your manuscript. In self-publishing, these roles are yours to fill. You must either develop these skills yourself or outsource them, which can be costly. This includes not only editing and proofreading but also formatting the book and designing the cover. The quality of these elements can make or break your book’s success.
3. Earning Potential Can Be Misleading
The allure of better royalties is a major draw of self-publishing. Traditional publishers often offer royalties between 7% to 25%, whereas self-published authors can earn up to 70% from platforms like Amazon. However, these figures can be misleading. Without the backing of a publisher’s marketing and distribution power, reaching a wide audience solely on your own can be challenging. Therefore, while the percentage per sale is higher, the total sales and thus, total earnings, might not be as high as one would hope without significant marketing effort.
4. Niche Markets Thrive
One surprising advantage of self-publishing is the ability to succeed spectacularly within niche markets. Traditional publishers often shy away from niche genres or very targeted audiences because the market size doesn’t justify the logistics and costs involved. Self-publishers, on the other hand, can cater to specific interests or gaps in the market, engaging deeply with a dedicated audience. For authors who write about specialized subjects, self-publishing can be the best route to find their audience.
5. The Learning Curve is Steep
Finally, many new self-publishers are surprised by the steep learning curve. The process is not just about writing a book; it involves mastering the intricacies of ISBNs, understanding digital formats, learning about distribution channels, and staying updated with marketing trends. Each step has its challenges, requiring a broad skill set that goes well beyond writing. The good news is that numerous resources are available, including online communities, courses, and books dedicated to mastering self-publishing.
Self-publishing is a viable and rewarding route for many authors, but it’s not without its surprises. It offers a unique blend of creative control and entrepreneurial challenge that can be as fulfilling as it is demanding. For those willing to take on these roles, the world of self-publishing can open up endless opportunities.
Aaron Lamb 