A few weeks ago I posted “Four Self-Publishing Rules for New Authors,” and wanted to expand on that today with another consideration for first-time authors–namely that even if you’re publishing through one of the “free” sites (like Lulu or Createspace) it’s always in your best interests to spend a few dollars where your book needs it. Any of you that have been through my weekly “Top 10 Things You Should Know About Self-Publishing Your Book In Today’s Environment” webinar have heard me pound on this before.

One of my favorite sayings is that self-publishing may be rocket science, but you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to self-publish. And the good thing is that it’s getting easier every day. Sure, there are countless options available to you–making it easy for authors to get confused and frustrated–but once you decide on your self-publishing goals the path gets a little clearer.

As you begin your self-publishing research one of the first things you’ll notice is that sites like Lulu.com and Createspace.com allow you to publish for free–you just pay for your proof(s). You’ll also notice that the more “traditional” self-publishing sites like Trafford, Outskirts,  iUniverse, and Booklocker require that you buy one of their publishing packages up-front, which may include services like editing, formatting, and cover art.

As much as you might be tempted to save a few bucks, however, don’t immediately jump on board with Lulu and Createspace. Examine your situation and think about whether your manuscript could use some finessing (especially in regards to editing), and whether you have the skills to format your manuscript per the specifications required for printing. Bottom line–you don’t want to take the chance of having your book appear amateurish, or worse.

Based on my experience while working at Lulu, and now as a self-publishing coach and consultant with PublishandSell.com, my expectation is that 1) your manuscript will need some professional review, and 2) you’ll realize that you haven’t mastered all the skills necessary to properly self-publish your book. That’s not an uncommon realization–especially for first-timers–and it’s best that we have this understanding early in the game. As I mentioned in my Four Rules article, not many authors are experts in all of the areas of self-publishing, and my days at Lulu helped me (along with thousands of new authors) learn the hard way that “free” isn’t always better. Poor quality writing and content presentation can kill your project right out of the gate–and I saw it occur countless times. Don’t let it happen to you!

Once you review your situation, however, and are aware of where your book needs help, you can begin to narrow your self-publishing choices. Of course, free may still be the way to go–in which you’ll take your time to learn the publishing process, educate yourself on the steps to successful publishing, and obtain professional assistance when necessary. Just don’t rush things along too quickly.

And, if you want to go ahead and try these free sites on for size and order a copy for yourself, then go for it. There’s really no downside to that–in fact it’ll be a real eye-opener for you as you begin to learn what this new revolution in self-publishing is all about. When you receive your proof, though, review it with a fine-tooth comb, compare it to other successful books in your genre, and hand it to some unbiased observers and ask for their input. That feedback will be instrumental in helping you decide where your book is lacking, and what you should do about it. This usually comes down to editing and formatting, and if that’s the case you should pay the experts (including, cough, PublishandSell.com, cough) to help you craft a book that exhibits the professionalism that your audience deserves, and often demands.

If you don’t want to manage this project yourself, that’s when you look at the Traffords of the world. Also, look at the service packages that are offered by Lulu and Createspace. You’ll pay a premium, play some email tag, and maybe lose some control–but these companies will do all the basic work required to get your book out the door in a professional way. Just do your homework (please!), ask other self-published authors for advice (always!), and review your publishing contract in detail (mandatory!).

Not surprisingly, I generally come out on the side authors using these free publishing sites and then finding the expert assistance as they need it.  First, it gives you more control over their book. Second, you will only pay for the specific services you need (you’re not limited to “cookie-cutter” packages). Third, and most important, the knowledge and insight you gain from this project will help prepare you for your next book (and the next, and the next), and in self-publishing such knowledge can be a strong competitive advantage.

So don’t be shy–take control of your publishing efforts. I’ve worked with hundreds of authors that have realized their dream of getting their book published, and I know that you can do it too.

Hang in there, and till next time–keep publishing!

Henry Hutton
PublishandSell.com
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