When to Consider Self Publishing
Self-publishing is something everyone wants to know about, but no one is really sure what it entails. Far too often, people see self-publishing as the perfect solution when agents reject their novels or publishers show disinterest. However, because of this view, many people make the mistake of self-publishing when it's really not the right solution for them. In these cases, self-publishing can hurt their cause, and make future publishing even harder to achieve. Here's a great way to determine if self-publishing is truly the best option for you.
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Do you have a target niche or audience?
Self publishing books work best when there is a target audience that is already established and likely to buy your book. One of the biggest losses in losing a publisher is the lack of promotion, so if you have an established market already, that loss isn't that big. With a clearly identified niche you can market to, or an already existing established audience, promoting your book will simply involve finding methods to inform these people, and can offer a tidy profit.
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Are publishers not seeing the true quality?
Sometimes agents make mistakes and overlook great books. While it's hard to imagine every agent making the same case, if you are confident that your book has potential and is worthy of being published, it might be worth taking a chance. However, it is important to make sure you're not being overly proud of your work and have a number of people give your book a read before you commit to self-publishing. Get honest opinions from people and take their feedback into mind before biting the bullet.
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Can you take the financial risk?
Self-publishing is a challenge because there are a number of upfront costs that need to be considered. Even if you use an on-demand publishing service that can mitigate some of the actual publishing costs of your book, there are a number of expenses to keep in mind. Copyediting is an expensive process, but it is crucial in making a professional product. In addition, designing a cover, laying out the book, and registering an ISBN all need money. If you want to spend any money marketing your book as well, you need to make sure you are capable of funding your venture.
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Is this your last chance at being an author?
You've dreamed of being an author your entire life, you've written a few books that you are truly proud of, but no agents are biting. You've worked with people, you've taken in their feedback, and these books are ready to go. At this point, what else are you waiting for? If you've used up every other venue for pursuing your dream, it might be worth taking a shot in the dark and trying a final venue for publishing your book.
In the end, self publishing your novel is rarely the perfect fix. If you are having trouble publishing your book through other means, it's worth getting other feedback before you immediately jump on the self publishing bandwagon. But once you've deemed it to be the right path for you, take a chance and go with it. In other areas on the site, we've provided further information to help you get the most out of your self-publishing experience.
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