Last updated on Jul 24, 2024

Here's how you can shift from traditional publishing to self-publishing.

Transitioning from traditional publishing to self-publishing can be a liberating step in your writing career. It allows you to take full control of your literary work, from the creative process to marketing and sales. While traditional publishing may offer the prestige of established publishing houses and the support of professional editors and marketers, self-publishing puts you in the driver's seat, offering potentially higher royalties and direct engagement with your readership. However, the shift requires an understanding of the new responsibilities you'll shoulder and the tools at your disposal. Embrace the change as an opportunity to learn and grow in your writing journey.

1 Assess Goals

Before you leap into the self-publishing waters, it's crucial to evaluate your goals. Are you aiming for creative control, higher royalties, or a quicker publishing process? Understanding what you want to achieve will guide your decisions and help you prioritize your efforts. For instance, if reaching a niche audience is your goal, self-publishing could offer targeted marketing strategies that traditional publishing doesn't. On the other hand, if you're seeking wide distribution and recognition, you'll need to prepare for the extensive marketing efforts that come with self-publishing.

Add your perspective

Amba Okito Onekanda

General Copywriter in Marketing Communications, Health & Wellness, Web and Social Media Content for Small and Medium Businesses, and Non-Profit Organizations I Mental Health Advocate
Report contribution
self publishing requires creativity and discipline. And if you know your audience and the subject matter well enough to attract them, you don't need someone to do it for you, because we're in the age of social media where everything can be done by yourself. there's no need for traditional publishing.

Like
Meaghen R.

Writer
Report contribution
I've self published all my books and thought I haven't sold one yet I'm happy with the decision because it allows me to move on to the next project. Some books take years from concept to store shelf. I love writing multiple projects at a time, letting them ferment writing more and then getting back to those ones, polishing them and hit the publish button. You have to be honest with yourself about what you want and what success means to you. Some writers get one book published every five years. I'm not guaranteed tomorrow and I don't want to waste a second querying. If my books end up on store shelves it's because someone has chased me, not the other way around.

Like

2 Learn Skills

Self-publishing demands a diverse skill set, from formatting your manuscript to understanding digital platforms. You might need to become proficient in design software for creating covers or learn about eBook formatting standards like EPUB (Electronic Publication). Marketing skills are also essential; you'll need to know how to promote your book through social media, email newsletters, and other channels. Fortunately, numerous online resources and communities are available to help you build these skills.

Add your perspective

Pragya Yadav

Human Unlearning
Report contribution
You might need below skills to self-publish: 1. Formatting based on the platform. For example, for publishing on Amazon Kindle you can use their tool Kindle Create, and easily create your ebook. 2. Editing: You might edit your draft yourself or hire help. 3. Cover design: You can create a good cover design using the free designing apps such as Canva. 4. If it is an ebook you can publish it yourself, else go for print-on-demand. 5. Marketing: Very crucial step, without marketing nothing sells in this world. If you already have a following, selling the book will be easier. Else, utilize social media, offline/online connections, literary festivals, libraries, local bookstores to market your product.

Like
Meaghen R.

Writer
Report contribution
Self publishing takes guts because you are alone in the sea of novels. Now with ChatGTP books taking over (one writer has used it to produce over 25 variations of Pride and Prejudice, her words) the publishing world it's harder to stand out. The look of the manuscript is as important as the words on the page. Make sure the book is presentable before marketing it. Using twitter is great (#shamelessselfpromotion). Don't be too eager to promote your work to new followers, don't immediately DM them and celebrate all reviews even if you don't agree with them.

Like

3 Edit Rigorously

While traditional publishers provide professional editing services, as a self-publisher, you'll need to ensure your work is polished to perfection. Consider hiring freelance editors or enlisting beta readers to provide feedback. It's also wise to invest time in learning the nuances of grammar, style, and narrative structure to self-edit effectively. A well-edited book not only enhances readability but also establishes your credibility as a professional author.

Add your perspective

Meaghen R.

Writer
Report contribution
Write the book, set it down for a month and then read it again with fresh eyes. Once you can't add or take anything out of it then search for beta readers. When you get others to read your work thank them. You don't have to incorporate their feedback but treat it like a gift. Know what you want your readers to focus on with each read. Editing is hard but is doable if given enough time between writing sessions. Only use reputable editors and say no to AI.

Like

4 Cover Design

The adage "don't judge a book by its cover" doesn't hold in the marketplace. Your cover is often the first impression potential readers have of your book. In self-publishing, you're tasked with creating a cover that is both appealing and professional. You can hire a freelance designer or use online tools to create your cover if you have an eye for design. Remember, your cover should reflect the genre and tone of your book while standing out to readers.

Add your perspective

5 Marketing Plan

Without the marketing muscle of a traditional publisher, you'll need to craft a strategic marketing plan. Identify your target audience and the best channels to reach them. This could include social media marketing, blog tours, or connecting with book clubs. Building an author platform before your book launch can be invaluable, allowing you to engage with potential readers and create buzz around your upcoming release.

Add your perspective

6 Distribution Choices

Finally, you'll need to decide on distribution channels for your book. Various online platforms allow you to publish eBooks and print-on-demand paperbacks. Consider the royalties, reach, and ease of use of each platform to determine the best fit for your book. Additionally, explore local bookstores or libraries that might be interested in stocking your book, as they can be valuable partners in reaching readers in your community.

Add your perspective

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

Add your perspective

Here's how you can shift from traditional publishing to self-publishing.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Assess Goals

2 Learn Skills

3 Edit Rigorously

4 Cover Design

5 Marketing Plan

6 Distribution Choices

7 Here’s what else to consider

Writing

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

More articles on Writing

More relevant reading

Here's how you can shift from traditional publishing to self-publishing.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Assess Goals

2 Learn Skills

3 Edit Rigorously

4 Cover Design

5 Marketing Plan

6 Distribution Choices

7 Here’s what else to consider

Writing

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

Explore Other Skills