independent publishing

Publishing is not a one-size fits all endeavor. Which option is best for you depends on your skills, genre, goals, project, and budget.  The questionnaire below will help you identify which publishing option to pursue:

Would you rather:

1. Not spend your own money and get paid up front
2. Pay just to print in exchange for a moderate return
3. Make a reasonable up-front investment for a higher return

Would you prefer to:

1. Let someone else handle the entire process
2. Manage the process yourself
3. Retain creative control while working with an experienced team

In terms of marketing and sales, are you more comfortable:

1. Handling your marketing, but knowing the publisher’s credibility will carry you through the distribution chain
2. Handling all of your marketing and forgoing retail distribution
3. Coordinating your marketing efforts with an organized and strategic campaign through retail and specialty distribution channels while having the option to sell directly

In terms of creating content, are you more comfortable:

1. Writing it yourself, but working with an editor to finalize it
2. Writing and editing it all yourself—I’ll hire an editor if I need one
3. Writing it yourself, but using the help of a ghost writer or an editor to organize your thoughts and save time

When it comes to design, would you rather:

1. Leave it to the pros
2. Do it yourself
3. Have creative control, but work with a skilled designer

When it comes to distribution, do you want:

1. Access to a traditional distribution chain
2. To sell them all yourself
3. A combination of traditional distribution and the ability to sell books on your own in return for the full cover price

Answer Key:

Mostly 1’s: Traditional publishing is probably the best option for you.

Mostly 2’s: Vanity, new technology, or self-publishing may be best for you.

Mostly 3’s: An independent/hybrid publisher is likely the best fit.

Regardless of which option you choose to pursue, it is vital that you protect yourself by doing your homework, taking the time to weigh the pros and cons, and analyzing  the option’s ability to help you meet your short and long-term goals. Publishing a book is a smart and crucial step toward building your brand. Take the time to do it right.