Publishing a book is one of the most rewarding things you can do. It is also easy to spend money in the wrong places. Here are seven mistakes we see first-time authors make, and how to avoid each one.
1. Skipping professional editing
Friends and family are encouraging, but they rarely catch structural problems or consistent grammar errors. An editor sees your manuscript the way a reader will. Budget for at least one professional edit and a separate proofread.
2. Designing the cover last
Your cover is your book’s first advertisement. Plan it early so that your title, subtitle and cover work together, and so you can use the cover to promote the book before launch.
3. Printing too many copies
It is tempting to print thousands of copies to reduce the unit cost. Unless you already have confirmed buyers, start with a smaller run, sell, and reprint. Unsold books are expensive.
4. Ignoring the e-book
An e-book costs little to produce and lets readers anywhere in the world buy your book instantly. It also gives you a lower-priced option for new readers.
5. No marketing plan
A book does not sell itself. Decide before launch who the book is for, where those readers spend time, and how you will reach them: church groups, schools, social media, events and bookstores.
6. Not getting an ISBN
An ISBN identifies your book and is needed by many bookstores and libraries. It makes your book look and function like a professionally published title.
7. Going it alone
The most expensive publishing decisions are the ones made without advice.
A short consultation before you spend can save you far more than it costs. That is why we walk with authors through every stage, from manuscript to market.
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From manuscript to market, we walk with you through every stage.