When choosing a self-publishing company, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure you are getting the best value and support for your work. Here are seven key points to guide your decision:
1. Services Offered & Package Costs
- Look into the range of services provided, such as cover design, editing, formatting, distribution, and eBook conversion.
- Compare the packages offered and assess if they meet your needs at a reasonable price. Some companies provide all-in-one packages, while others offer à la carte options.
- Check for hidden fees or additional charges.
2. Fees and Royalty Structure
- Investigate the fee structure, including upfront costs and ongoing charges.
- Evaluate the royalty split between the author and the company. Aim for a company that offers higher royalties or allows you to keep more of your profits.
- Ensure clarity on whether royalties are calculated based on net or gross sales.
3. Copyright and Creative Control
- Ensure that you retain full copyright ownership of your work. Avoid companies that demand exclusive rights.
- Understand what level of creative control you have over your book’s design, editing, and marketing strategy.
4. Community and Resources
- Consider whether the company provides access to a community of authors, writing resources, and networking opportunities.
- Look for educational tools, webinars, or guides that can help you navigate the publishing process more effectively.
5. Contracts and Transparency
- Review the contract thoroughly. It should be straightforward, transparent, and easy to understand.
- Ensure there are no ambiguous clauses, especially regarding rights, fees, and obligations.
- Seek companies that offer clear terms regarding what happens if you want to switch to another publisher or opt out of their services.
6. Marketing Assistance
- Check whether the company provides marketing support, such as book launch assistance, advertising, social media promotion, or book tours.
- Some companies offer a range of promotional services, while others may charge extra for these.
- Consider the effectiveness of their distribution channels for reaching your target audience.
7. Customer Support and Distribution
- Gauge the quality of their customer service. Responsive, helpful support can make a huge difference in your publishing experience.
- Ensure they have wide and effective distribution channels, both online and in physical stores.
- Research how they handle print-on-demand, digital distribution, and shipping logistics.
- Understand their distribution network—whether they can get your book on major platforms like Amazon, bookstores, or libraries, and whether they offer print-on-demand services.
Choosing a self-publishing company requires thorough research and consideration of these factors to find a service that aligns with your needs and goals.