Insights from industry veteran Michele DeFilippo.
In the ever-evolving world of book publishing, the debate between traditional publishing and self-publishing remains a hot topic. For authors seeking control and maximising their revenue, self-publishing often presents an appealing alternative. But navigating this landscape requires more than just writing a manuscriptβit demands strategic planning, professional input, and a robust marketing approach. This week, our podcast dives deep into these intricacies with Michelle DeFilippo, a 50-year veteran of the book publishing industry.
Episode Highlights
1. Navigating Self-Publishing With Confidence
Michelle DeFilippo kicks off the episode by sharing her extensive experience in the publishing world and her passion for empowering authors. She delves into the distinctions between independent publishing and self-publishing, highlighting the critical importance of retaining creative control and revenue. Michelle addresses the misinformation that often misguides authors, stressing the necessity of hiring experts for tasks like cover design and formatting. Her personal journey, coupled with her motivation to start podcasting, sets the stage for a wealth of practical advice.
2. Traditional vs Independent Publishing
This segment explores the stringent selection criteria of traditional publishers, such as the necessity of a substantial social media following, and contrasts it with the freedoms and challenges of self-publishing. Michelle demystifies the landscape, explaining why professional services like editing, typesetting, and proofreading are indispensable for producing high-quality books. She also clarifies Amazonβs role as a distribution platform rather than a publisher, offering a comprehensive understanding to help authors make informed decisions about their publishing path.
3. Self-Publishing and Book Marketing Advice
In this part, Michelle discusses critical decisions authors need to make when considering self-publishing. She emphasizes the importance of broad distribution through platforms like Amazon and IngramSpark and the necessity of addressing unique problems to stand out in the crowded market. The conversation shifts to the distinction between publishing as a hobby versus a business, underscoring the need for quality production to meet market standards. Michelle also tackles common mistakes, such as the do-it-yourself mindset and reluctance to market, providing actionable strategies to overcome these pitfalls.
4. Marketing Strategies and Self-Publishing Insights
Michelle explores two distinct marketing approaches available for authors: self-education through marketing resources and professional guidance from trusted marketing experts. She highlights the importance of targeted online advertising and effective social media strategies, sharing insights from a recent self-publishing experience involving Amazon's geographical restrictions. Michelle introduces IngramSpark's shareable purchase links as an alternative solution for better control and higher profit margins, providing listeners with valuable resources and a free consultation offer.
5. Quality over Speed in Self-Publishing
In the final chapter, Michelle underscores the importance of producing a high-quality book. She discusses the idea that everyone has a book within them and the significance of bringing that book to the world with care and attention to detail. Her actionable advice focuses on prioritizing quality over rushing to publish a subpar book, highlighting the long-term benefits of doing right by readers and delivering value.
Key Takeaways
- Retaining Creative Control: Self-publishing allows authors to retain complete control over their work and revenue, but it requires careful planning and professional input to ensure quality.
- Professional Services Are Non-Negotiable: Hiring experts for cover design, formatting, editing, typesetting, and proofreading is crucial for producing a standout book.
- Understanding the Publishing Landscape: Traditional publishing has stringent criteria, while self-publishing offers more freedom but also more responsibility.
- Effective Marketing: Utilizing platforms like Amazon and IngramSpark for broad distribution and adopting targeted marketing strategies are essential for success.
- Quality Over Speed: Investing in quality production ensures long-term success and reader satisfaction.
Whether you're an aspiring author or an experienced writer considering the self-publishing route, this episode with Michelle DeFilippo is packed with invaluable insights and practical advice. Tune in to master the art and business of self-publishing, navigate your publishing journey with confidence, and elevate your marketing game to capture readers' hearts and stand the test of time.
For the episode, full show notes and links, click here: https://personaldevelopmentmasterypodcast.com/408