If you have been a writer for a long time, you’ll know the frustration of trying to get published in the days prior to self-publishing and Amazon. It was extremely difficult to incite the attention of an agent or publisher and when the rejection slips inevitably wound their way back, they often didn’t hint as to the reason why.
Now, self-publishing has become the norm. It opens up so many opportunities these days. It gives unique access to the dream that was typically forbidden to many – yes, even potentially great writers. Rejections were so commonplace that it took something more than a little special to earn an official ‘published’ status. So while self-publishing has made tremendous progress, there are still many people who feel unsure about the ethics of doing so.
If you push that thought aside, instead, consider what self-publishing could mean for you personally. It gives you the chance to earn some extra money from your creative endeavours. It gives you the status of published author. It also means that you can build a dedicated readership and, still gain traditional publishing success if you so choose.
Self-publishing is not necessarily an instead of. You can gain a publishing contract after your book has sold digitally or even in paperback. It’s still incredibly difficult to gain representation as these days, publishers are very careful about who they take on and represent. They have to be. The market is flooded as it is. Even those who are at the top of their game, often fail to gain a lovely cash advance or, do not receiving the same level of marketing as they would have done once. Publishers like (in the main) to reduce their risks and to take on those who have proven themselves worthy. Yes, those who have managed to get some great book sales all on their own and who have proven they are credible writers.
So, don’t give up on getting published because you are concerned about the whole process of doing it yourself. Just think of it as having creative freedom instead. Yes, there is a lot to learn and the writer has to work a whole lot harder – way beyond the publishing stage but, you don’t have to do it all yourself. Just remember, the royalties gained through self-publishing are much higher than the traditional publishing route. So that has to be a big tick in the box?
If you would like some advice on the process to publication, please contact us here: contact@creative1publishing.com Or take a look at our Book Genius Services.