6 Reasons Why You Don't Need A Publishing Deal

The book publishing landscape is an ever-evolving, ever-trending industry where aspiring authors aren't aware how quickly they can have a copy of their book in their own hands. For decades, traditional publishing houses have been gatekeepers to publishing success, providing opportunities for writers to see their work in print and reach a wider audience. These opportunities would offer one major goal for writers: to see their book in a book store. 

But like any industry, the digital age has helped aspiring authors write and distribute their books on their own timelines and at a lower cost. With the rise of self-publishing platforms and the power of the internet, aspiring authors, business owners and leaders now have the ability to take control of delivering a book to their audience - and here are 6 reasons why you don't need a publishing deal andhow self-publishing can be the best alternative for you, your business and your book writing goals. 

1. Creative Freedom. When you opt for self-publishing, you retain complete creative control over your work. Traditional publishing deals often come with an expense - the writer may be asked to make changes to their manuscript to fit market trends or editorial preferences. But with self-publishing, authors are able to tell their stories in their own unique voices, without compromise. This creative freedom can lead to more authentic and powerful storytelling, resonating deeply with readers.

2. Deliver Quickly To Your Audience. The traditional publishing process can be lengthy and time-consuming. From establishing your idea, developing a book proposal, researching and then querying agents to going through multiple rounds of edits and waiting for publication, it can take years before a book hits the shelves. In contrast, self-publishing allows authors to release their work as soon as they're ready. With digital platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing and Ingram Spark, authors can publish their books in a matter of days, connecting with readers and establishing their book quickly in their industry. 

3. Greater Earnings Potential. As a traditionally published author, authors usually receive a modest royalty percentage from book sales (around 10-15%). The advances that the publishing house provide upfront must be earned back before the author starts receiving additional royalties. This is in contrast with self-publishing, where self-published authors can earn a higher percentage of the book's sales price, sometimes up to 70% or more, depending on the platform and distribution choices. This means that self-publishing can be financially rewarding for authors. If you are a business owner, you already have a trusted audience to deliver your book.

4. Marketing And Promotion. While traditional publishers offer marketing and promotional support, their high-end services are often reserved for high-profile authors with established fan bases. Lesser-known authors may find themselves with limited marketing efforts and struggle to reach potential readers. On the other hand, self-publishing forces authors to take on the role of entrepreneurs, encouraging them to build their online presence, engage with readers through social media, and seek out promotional opportunities. This active involvement in marketing can lead to a deeper connection with readers and a more sustainable author-reader relationship.

5. Ownership of Rights. With a publishing deal, authors would have to relinquish certain rights to their work, including foreign rights, audio rights, and film adaptations. Self-publishing grants authors the freedom to retain full control over these rights, giving them the opportunity to explore various avenues and monetise their book. They can choose to publish translations, produce audiobooks, and explore other avenues freely. 

6. Find Your Niche Easier. Traditional publishers have generally focus on trending niches and appeal to mass markets so they can maximise profits (Like when Price Harry + Meghan had their book released). This leaves niche genres and specialized topics underrepresented. Self-publishing allows authors to cater to specific, passionate audiences dedicated to their industry of expertise. With perseverance and quality content, self-published authors can find long-tail success, continually selling books to their niche readership over time.

While securing a traditional publishing deal is still a dream for many writers, it's not often known about the other opportunities available and the benefits self-publishing has on a business owner, let alone a new writer who's looking to publish their book. Self-publishing offers a wealth of benefits and opportunities. As the publishing landscape continues to evolve, self-publishing has become a viable and rewarding path for authors who are willing to take charge of their book ideas and entrepreneurial pursuits.

If you have a story to tell, don't be afraid to explore the world of self-publishing and unleash your creativity on your own terms. As a book coach, I guide you on your journey towards getting your book published. Whether that's traditionally, or the self-publishing route, it all depends on your book goals. If you have a book idea and want to discuss it further, don't hesitate to book in a clarity call below and we can guide you in the right direction.