The main downside of self-publishing is the cost:
- $1000-$2000: Self-published authors need to hire a professional editor. A poorly edited book means negative reviews and far fewer sales long-term.
- $300-$2000: A professional book cover designer is a must. Your book cover is your number one marketing tool.
- $100-$1000: Many authors don’t have the time or technical know-how to make a book look correct. This requires expensive formatting software and a lot of time. (Might I suggest Vellum or Atticus?)
- Marketing costs vary, but you’re probably looking at author website costs, money spent on professional reviewers, advertising on Amazon or Facebook, etc.
The main benefit of self-publishing: Most of the profits (after Amazon’s take). Also, you are the sole determiner of your book’s fate, which is appealing to all you control freaks out there (me included).
Want to cut your teeth with self-publishing? It’s going to take a lot of time, money, and sweat. But it’s worth it if you’re a good writer.
Avoid Vanity Publishers
Make sure to avoid vanity publishers. You should never pay a company to publish your book. Vanity publishers try to get you to pay them money to get your book on bookshelves.
