In the world of authors and publishers, two fundamental types of publishing are common. Self-publishing and traditional publishing have obstacles and benefits to the author wishing to use either. However, it’s important to see and understand the uses of the author themselves while deciding on their choice. So, let’s start in the beginning and understand each separately;
A Brief Overview
If this is your first time attempting to publish your work, it’s important to review a brief overview of these types. Here is a basic understanding of Self-Publishing and Traditional Publishing;
Self-Publishing
It is similar to traditional publishing, with a few key differences. The author controls all processes, including writing, designing, printing, marketing, and distribution. With self-publishing, an author won’t have access to traditional distribution or sales teams. Hence, it is unlikely their book will reach a physical store.
Furthermore, you can simplify self-publishing in six key tasks. Either the author must handle these on their own or work with freelancers to accomplish them:
- Editing or copyediting
- Writing cover copy and marketing materials
- Interior design
- Cover design
- Determining your price point and marketplaces
- Marketing and promotion
Once everything has been collected and put together, the author needs to determine how and where to publish or sell their eBook.
Traditional Publishing
Traditional publishing is the more common route that many authors choose, especially their first time. After an author has completed their manuscript and sample, they approach the publisher. If there is interest, an offer is made, which follows deals and contracts.
Afterward, the editor in charge will help with the fixes, and the designer will help put the book together. This process will cover;
- Editing and copywriting
- Cover design
- Book formatting
- Sales Marketing and distribution
This entire process can take up to a year, and once it’s complete, the publishing house will ensure it appears in bookstores and is restocked promptly. While the author can start on their next work. Now let’s talk about the cost and benefits of Self-Publishing and Traditional Publishing.
Cost And Benefits
Now, to answer the question of “how” the author makes money from each method of publishing. Here are some of the basics;
Self-publishing
One of the most talked-about benefits of self-publishing is that authors receive more with each copy sold. Moreover, you will control what gets put on paper and how the design comes out. However, since they are responsible for all the other aspects of publishing, they unusually start in credit. Between external editing, design, and marketing, they can rack up costs amounting to several thousand dollars to produce a professional-looking work.
Of course, you can cut corners and work out most of the details yourself to cut costs. However, whether it’s time or money, self-publishing is nothing if not a commitment.
Traditional publishing
When choosing traditional publishing, the author doesn’t have to pay a single penny. Reputable publishing agents will not charge the author upfront; rather, they work on a commission basis. It is very important to understand that an agent won’t get paid unless you are getting paid. If an agent is asking for money upfront, it’s likely a scam.
Furthermore, if they are interested in acquiring the rights to the author’s work, publishers might offer a separate payment from royalties. This can be anywhere from a negligible fee to millions of dollars for the author to abide by the terms of the agreement. In some cases, publishing houses will also try to sell sub-rights reserved for film and audio rights.
Once everything is said and done, authors will receive income through royalties and other income per the split allocated in the agreement.
What Are Your Goals
Now that you have understood most of the differences, costs, and benefits. Let’s look at what you, as an author, want to achieve. This will help you decide which is perfect for you;
Is It A Passion Project Or A Global Appeal?
An eBook has to fit into an established genre and be the appropriate length, and most importantly, it must have mass commercial appeal if you want to attract major publishers. If you have a niche audience, perhaps self-publishing or a small press would be the better route to take. For traditional publishing, you need to be a top expert in your field for nonfiction.
How Much Control Do You Want?
Authors of traditional publishing work with professionals, but in doing so, they have to give up some control. To make decisions about such things as revisions, editing, cover design, title, marketing, and promotions. The benefit of self-publishing is that authors have complete control over these aspects of the eBook, but they require more effort and responsibility.
How Much Validation Matters To You?
Some authors like being recognized by established publishers, others do not. At the end of the day, the decision to go the traditional publishing route is based on the author’s personal goal and how much validation they need.
Do You Want Your Book In A Physical Store Or Library?
Store and library distribution remain the domain of traditional publishing. If you want your eBook on physical shelves, you need a traditional publisher. While self-publishing makes an online presence on the major platforms possible, it is difficult to get into physical stores. Think about how important physical presence is to your book’s success.
How Good Are You At Marketing?
Traditional publishers will provide some marketing support, but self-publishing requires the author to do all the marketing. While self-publishing is technically easier, the hard part is marketing and promotion to initially attract readers.
Can You Afford To Invest In Publishing?
Traditional publishing is expensive, as the author pays for manuscript preparation and potential editing up front, and then the publisher pays the author. If you are self-publishing, you need to do things like cover design, editing, formatting, and marketing, all of which can be time-consuming or need to be outsourced for a fee. The costs can run into the thousands of dollars, but you don’t know if you’re going to get your money back.
Roosevelt Publishers Will Handle All Your eBook Self-Publishing Needs
Roosevelt Publishers offers authors all the necessary services related to self-publishing eBooks. Whether you are looking for an editor for your manuscript or a designer to design and assemble your book, we are the perfect service. Our writers, editors, and designers are industrial professionals and will guarantee that your eBook reaches your target audience. This includes marketing and publishing across numerous platforms. Contact Roosevelt Publishers today to kick-start your journey!
