Let’s Talk Self-Publishing–Book Lunch, June 25

This month on Wednesday, June 25^th it’ll just be me and you, talking about self-publishing. We received several questions on this topic in May but weren’t able to get to them, so I’m devoting an entire Book Lunch to the subject.

What exactly does it mean to “self-publish?”

In its most basic form, “self-publishing” means that an author decides to put her own resources behind getting her book into print (or digital, audio, etc.) and out into the marketplace, without the help or partnership of an established publishing house. The phrase “indie author” or “indie publishing” is also used a lot to describe the same process, though this is not to be confused with independent publishers who are established, but who don’t belong to a larger media conglomerate.

The evolution of digital technologies like Print on Demand (POD) and ebook readers have made it possible for authors to reach their audiences with very little time and money invested. That makes self-publishing a very attractive route for many people, including entrepreneurs who want a “super charged” business card and those who have a great story but too small a platform to attract a publishing contract.

What makes self-publishers successful?

I argue that there’s a HUGE difference between “self-publishing” and “successful self-publishing.” In other words, almost anyone can write some words, upload a file, and make a book available for sale. But it takes a LOT more than that if you want to actually sell books. And yet more if you want to make a career with your writing.

I’m really passionate about successful self-publishing and I have some tidbits to share, but mainly this will be an open format Q&A, and your chance to ask me anything! For example:

• How do I know if self-publishing is right for me?
• What is the best way for me to market myself?
• What are the pros and cons to self-publishing?
• What are some of resources you recommend and why?

If you have questions about self-publishing—whether about creating your book, getting it published, or marketing it—send ‘em along when you register for the webchat. I’ll take questions live, too, if time allows, but questions are basically answered in the order in which they are received 😉

Hope to meet you for Lunch on June 25^th at 12:30pm ET!