The main goal for authors is to get people to see their writing. When this goal comes face to face with you, you might ask, how would you get this book into the hands of readers. There are two primary publishing options you’ll have: self publishing and traditional publishing. Self publishing has made its way to be very popular in the present time. Though, some authors still use the traditional method of publishing. Each road has their own pros and cons and as we explore these, you might have a clear thought on your decision.
Self publishing pros:
- You are the boss. When it comes to self publishing you make the decisions about your book’s content, design, and the way your book is on the market. This means you control how your book looks and how your book is priced.
- Quicker. I would consider self publishing a quicker way to put your work out there. You don’t have to wait for a submission process, or wait for someone else to approve your work.
- Higher income, at a cost. You’ll get a higher percentage of your book income. Traditional publishers definitely take a cut from your income, no matter what. When I say it comes at a cost, you will have to pay for a way for your book to make the market to start the income process.
- You get to see what works, and what doesn’t. As a self published author, you have the ability to make changes where needed. If it’s your writing, cover or price, you have the freedom to make those changes with approval.
Self publishing cons:
- More responsibility. You aren’t just an author now, you are an editor, designer and marketer. This will take much more of your time and money than you may think. You’ll either have to take the time to rk on those skills or hire someone to do it for you.
- Less visibility. You have to put in the work to get your brand into the light of the publisher that has been established for ages. There’s a lot of competition and building your audience will fall on your shoulders.
- How people view self publishing. Though the view on self publishing has lessened over the years, some people still believe it to be less quality than traditionally published ones. This can affect marketing and exposure opportunities.
Traditional publishings pros:
- Attention. With traditionally publishing your book, it offers credibility and validations. This can make it easier to grab attention from future publishing opportunities, reviewers, bookstones etc.
- Support from professionals. These publishers offer extra services like editing, cover design, marketing and distributions. There’s also professionals that could help you guide where your book may be heading.
- Reach. These publishers have established relationships with many distribution centers and this overall will have your book get more exposure to a larger audience.
Traditional publishings cons:
- Limited control. Editing and cover design will have to be aligned with your publisher ‘s vision. When working with a publisher, you wont have control over prices and release times.
- Process. Finishing your work already takes a long time. Now you have a way for a review over your work, the editing process, and the production process. It could take months to even years to the release of your book.
- Income. Traditional publishers will take a good amount of your book sale income to cover the whole process it took for your book to get there.
Now this choice will depend on your goals and what you want to do with your book. It also depends on the time and money you have. Considering these factors will overall help you make the best choice for your book.