When it comes to choosing the best publishing method for your book, the two most common options are traditional publishing and self-publishing. Typically, Self publishing is the better option for authors who want to have control over the editing process, cover design, and marketing which and editor would usually take care of.
Academic presses, on the other hand, tend to focus on smaller audience scholarly monographs.
You should also consider which route will provide you with the best return on investment.
Publishing and Ownership
One of the biggest advantages of self-publishing vs traditional publishing is the speed of the publishing process. You can launch your book in a matter of months, without having to wait years for traditional publishers to accept it. Moreover, you can keep the full rights to your book, as well as any royalties you earn from it. However, there are some drawbacks to self-publishing.
When compared to traditional publishing, self-publishing gives you complete control over your book. With traditional publishing, you have to pay all the costs and retain the majority of profit. On the other hand, when you publish your book through self-publishing, you take the full risks and retain 100% ownership of your book. You will have to invest considerable time and energy in the book’s production, but you will be rewarded with more profits per sale.
Traditional Publishing
If you have a proven track record as an author, you may want to consider traditional publishing. In the past, traditional publishing has brought in a number of high-profile authors, including Stephen King, Dan Brown, J.K. Rowling, E.L. James, Lee Child, and Nora Roberts. However, in 2022 the market for traditional publishing is crowded and rejection rates are extremely high. Although this may be a drawback, traditional publishing is still a great option for some writers and often less risky.
In addition to the long turnaround time, authors are expected to market their work themselves. Agents are often seeking authors who have a following, and an email list. When you are interviewing agents, be sure to ask them about the marketing package they offer, as this is more than a simple bookstore catalogue. Be sure to check out author testimonials and do your due diligence before signing a contract. Traditional publishing is not for everyone.
Self-publishing
Unlike traditional publishing, self-publishing gives you complete control over every aspect of the book. You will own your book, distribute it, and collect the earnings. Although it can be lucrative, it also comes with a stigma. There are pros and cons to both options. The right decision for you will depend on your skills, goals, and writing.
Publishing service providers started growing in the late 1990s, and distribution channels began to include online retailers. However, print remained the primary focus of most self-publishing authors. In response, these publishing service providers realized that they could turn a profit by offering marketing services. Some were free, others were quite expensive. Ultimately, self-publishing was a viable option for authors who wished to keep control over editing and the cover.
As an author, you should be able to choose the publishing service best suited to your needs. If you want total control over edits, the cover, and distribution, self-publishing is not for you. You should also consider the cost of a traditional publishing service and whether you want to get a good deal for your book. Self-publishing is a great way to start a career. It is also a great way to get attention from agents and publishers. The best authors in self-publishing are usually well-established and have published other books.
