Develop a Publishing Plan

When you are on the path to publication in the indie world you have options. Those options may take some digging through many Google searches, but you need to take the time to filter through everything. It’s the only real way to start researching for your publishing plan.

Starting research on publishers of indie books can be daunting. There are a lot of names out there but finding ones that publish indie books can be hard to find. Especially if you’re looking for someone that has multiple publishing options.

Beware of vanity publishers! You may be tempted to go for a publisher that says they will do it all for you. The catch is that you have to pay them money. NEVER pay a “publisher” money to get your book published. It’s not how it works and many times you don’t end up with everything that is promised.

In the new Book Marketing Planner that is available through the Bound to Writing Shop or on Amazon, there is a two-page spread that allows you to plan out the different edition options and publishing information you will need for your book.

What is a Publisher?

Someone that will print your book in a particular format and make it available for others to buy as well.

What is a Publishing Plan?

A plan where you take the time to research your publishing options before publishing your book.

What Should I Look For?

You’ll want to know which editions you are publishing and find publishers that publish those editions.

For example, Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing publishes Hardcover, Paperback, and eBooks, but not Audiobooks. You have to go through another publisher like ACX which is a separate Amazon entity for your Audiobook.

After you create a list of potential publishers, you will want to decide who you feel is the right fit for publishing your book.

What is an ISBN?

This is a unique number that identifies your book. Depending on your publisher choice or own personal preference, you will need to purchase an ISBN for each edition of your book.

Why multiple ISBNs?

Because these are unique numbers and each edition of your book is unique, you will need a separate ISBN for any edition that requires one.

Where Do I Buy an ISBN?

There are many places online that allow you to purchase ISBNs. Bowker being the most recognizable seller. Just make sure you find a reputable seller when purchasing your ISBNs.

Going through the publishing process is a lot of work. You need this information to continue on future steps of your book marketing plan. It may seem like a lot now, but having this information ready to go will save you time when you’re almost ready to publish your book.

I wish you the best on your continued marketing journey! The Book Marketing Planner is available in Paperback on Amazon and the downloadable file is available in the Bound to Writing Shop.