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Top Ten Tips for Self-Publishers

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Top Ten Self-Publishing Pitfalls

1. No Roadmap
   Answer the following questions.  If you can’t, head back to the drawing board.
   What is my book about?  You should be able to describe your book in one or two clear sentences.
   What make is unique? 
   Has your book already been written?  Do your research at the library and the bookstores. 
   Who cares? Who will buy this book and why.  You family may enjoy about your crazy Aunt Hattie, but would anyone else care?  In writing, describe your market and why it will work.

2. A Book That Screams Self Published
   Unprofessional cover and typesetting dooms your book.   When a potential buyer picks up your book to browse, you only have a few seconds to sell it.   A poor cover or amateur typesetting will ensure that your book dies on the shelf.  Get someone experienced in book covers, not just a graphic artist who does brochures.
   If there’s no ISBN number or bar code, forget about selling books at any bookstore or online service. 
   Poorly proofread or edited.  Books with a lot of typos or books that just plain need to be written better will not get to the bookshelf or the review desk .
   

3. No Markteting Plan
   A mediocre book with a great marketing plan will usually do better than an excellent book without a marketing plan.  No, it’s not fair, but it’s real.  Do your research, and wear your marketing hat from day one of your writing process.  Read up on this subject.  The best book out there is 1001 Ways to Market Your Book by John Kremer.
   
   
4. No Distribution 
   If your book is not available with a wholesaler or distributor, it’s difficult to get bookstore or library orders, not to mention reviews from major reviewers.
   
   
5. Unprofessional Printing
   If you get your book printed from Joe’s Prints R Us instead of a professional, the results will show.  Get sample copies from printers and make sure they are a book printer, not just a general print shop.
   
   
6. High Cost Printing, Low Cost Books 
   Many first time authors pay too much to have their book printed, then turn right around and price their book too low.  Get at least three RFQ’s (request for quotes) from reliable book printers.  Price your book at least 8 to 10 times the printing cost.  Compare the cost of your book to similar books in the field and don’t undersell yourself.
   
   
7. Incorrect Book Structure
   There’s a set structure for a book, including the title page, copyright information, introduction, book body, and index.  Non-fiction books should include an index.  Books structured incorrectly miss the cut when it comes to bookstores, libraries, and reviews.
   
   
8. Boring Title
   Make your title a “grabber,” then describe it clearly in the subtitle. 
   
   
9. No Business Knowledge
   Self-Publishing is a business. Research with books like The Complete Guide to Self-Publishing by Tom and Marilyn Ross, or The Self-Publishing Manual by Dan Poyner.
   
   
10. No Website, or Business Card
    Today’s books need a website presence.  Printers, bookstores, and reviewers will ask for your business card.  Be sure your website and business cards are ready and look professional.  Make sure your website is a “dot.com,” not dot “biz” or dot “net.”