The publishing industry has experienced significant transformations over the past decade, driven by technological advancements and changing reader preferences. One of the biggest shifts is the rise of self-publishing, which has empowered authors to take control of their publishing journey. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key changes in the publishing industry and highlight the power and benefits of self-publishing compared to traditional publishing.

The Rise of Self-Publishing

Self-publishing has grown exponentially, thanks to the accessibility and affordability of digital platforms. Authors no longer need to rely solely on traditional publishers to bring their books to market. Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), IngramSpark, and Smashwords have made it possible for authors to publish their work independently, reaching global audiences with just a few clicks.

Benefits of Self-Publishing:

• Creative Control:  Self-publishing allows authors complete creative control over their work. You can decide on the content, cover design, formatting, and pricing without the constraints often imposed by traditional publishers.
• Publishing Timeline: You control the timeline, from writing and editing to publishing and marketing. This flexibility allows for a quicker release, enabling you to respond to market trends and reader demands more effectively.
• Higher Royalties: Self-published authors typically earn higher royalties compared to those in traditional publishing. Platforms like Amazon KDP offer up to 70% royalties on eBook sales, significantly more than the 10-15% often offered by traditional publishers. By selling directly to readers through your website or other platforms, you can retain a larger portion of your earnings, maximizing your revenue potential.
• Global Reach: Self-publishing platforms provide global distribution, allowing your book to be available to readers worldwide. This eliminates the geographical limitations often faced in traditional publishing. Digital formats ensure your book is accessible on various devices, from eReaders to smartphones, catering to the preferences of modern readers.

Tips for Self-Publishing:

Just because it’s called “self” publishing, doesn’t mean you have to do it alone. There are small companies like Elite Online Publishing that have experience and expertise in helping author self publishing in a frustration free and successful way. It’s a lot to learn and navigate on your own and you need support in order to do it well!

Traditional Publishing

While self-publishing offers numerous advantages, traditional publishing still holds significant value for many authors. Established publishers provide a range of services that can be beneficial, especially for those seeking to leverage their expertise and resources.

Benefits of Traditional Publishing:

Professional Support: Traditional publishers offer professional editing, cover design, and formatting services, ensuring your book meets high-quality standards. They have established marketing and distribution networks, which can enhance your book’s visibility and reach, often securing placements in bookstores and media outlets.

Industry Credibility: Being published by a reputable publishing house can add a level of prestige and recognition to your work, which can be advantageous for securing speaking engagements, media coverage, and literary awards. Many traditional publishers work with literary agents who can negotiate favorable contracts and provide valuable industry insights.

Keep in mind that traditional publishers may not always reprint books or provide adequate marketing support, even for previously successful authors. Authors often lose control over their intellectual property and book rights. This lack of control can be frustrating for authors who want to keep their book relevant and accessible.

Navigating the Choice:

Choosing between self-publishing and traditional publishing depends on your goals, resources, and preferences as an author. Here are some factors to consider:

Goals: If you prioritize creative control, higher royalties, and a faster publishing timeline, self-publishing might be the better option. If you seek professional support, industry credibility, and established distribution channels, traditional publishing could be more suitable.

Resources: Assess your ability to invest time and money into the publishing process. Self-publishing requires a more hands-on approach, while traditional publishing provides structured support.

Audience: Consider where your target audience is most likely to discover your book. Self-publishing excels in digital spaces, while traditional publishing can offer more visibility in physical bookstores and libraries.

The publishing industry is changing, offering more opportunities than ever for authors to share their stories with the world. Whether you choose self-publishing or traditional publishing, understanding the benefits and challenges of each path will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and aspirations. Embrace the power of these evolving publishing models to bring your book to life and reach your readers effectively.

Ultimately, the best publishing route depends on individual needs, goals, and resources. Traditional publishing might offer prestige, while self-publishing and hybrid publishing offer more control and earning potential. If you’re someone who loves complete autonomy and is ready to invest time and effort, DIY might be your path.

Elite Online Publishing stands out for those seeking a high-end, concierge service that combines the benefits of self-publishing with professional support. As more authors pivot towards maintaining control over their work, self-publishing continues to rise in popularity.

Are you ready to take the next step in your publishing journey? At Elite Online Publishing, we are committed to helping you create, publish, and market your book to become a bestseller.

FAQ

What are the initial costs associated with self-publishing? Initial costs for self-publishing can vary widely but typically include expenses for editing, cover design, formatting, and marketing. Some authors also invest in professional services to ensure their book meets industry standards. We recommend partnering with experts like us, who can help you navigate self publishing and make sure you are getting the best. 

How long does it take to self-publish a book? The timeline for self-publishing depends on various factors, including the length of the book, the level of editing required, and the author’s schedule. On average, it can take anywhere from a few months to a year to complete the self-publishing process.

Can self-published books win literary awards? Yes, self-published books can and do win literary awards. While traditional publishers often dominate major literary awards, there are numerous awards specifically for self-published works, and many general awards are open to all authors. Learn more about book awards here! 

How do I market my self-published book? Effective marketing strategies for self-published books include building an author platform, utilizing social media, running targeted advertising campaigns, leveraging email marketing, creating a book launch team, and engaging with your audience through blogs and podcasts.

Top Mistakes to Avoid 

Neglecting Pre-Launch Marketing

One of the biggest mistakes authors make is neglecting pre-launch marketing. The weeks leading up to your book release are crucial for building anticipation and excitement. Pre-launch marketing helps you establish a buzz and generate interest among your target audience. By starting your marketing efforts early, you’ll create a sense of anticipation and excitement that can translate into strong initial sales. Don’t make this mistake; start early and build momentum. Here’s how: 

• Create a Pre-Launch Plan: Outline your marketing activities leading up to the launch. This can include teaser content, cover reveals, and countdowns.
• Engage Your Audience: Use social media, email newsletters, and your website to engage with your audience. Share behind-the-scenes insights, snippets from your book, and personal stories to build a connection.
• Utilize Influencers and Bloggers: Partner with influencers and bloggers in your niche to help spread the word. Their endorsement can significantly amplify your reach.

P.S. In order to have your book launched by the holidays this year, you need to get started NOW! Reach out if you’re ready to become a #1 Bestselling Author! 

Overlooking the Importance of a Launch Team

Another common mistake is overlooking the importance of a launch team. A launch team consists of dedicated readers and supporters who help promote your book before and during its release. They are your brand ambassadors, spreading the word and building excitment. A strong launch team can significantly boost your book’s visibility and credibility, leading to better sales and wider reach. Let’s assemble a dedicated launch team:

• Recruit Enthusiastic Members: Reach out to your most engaged readers, friends, family, and fellow authors to join your launch team. Offer them early access to your book in exchange for their support.
• Provide Clear Instructions: Give your launch team clear instructions on how they can help. This can include writing reviews, sharing your book on social media, and participating in online events.
• Reward Their Efforts: Show appreciation for your launch team’s efforts. Offer exclusive content, behind-the-scenes access, or special gifts as a token of gratitude.

Not Optimizing Your Online Presence

You have endless space of online real estate to showcase your brand and your book. Often, authors fail because they don’t take advantage of this space. So, consider your online presence, aka your virtual first impression. By optimizing your book’s online presence, you increase the chances of attracting and converting potential readers who are browsing online. Start here:

• Optimize Your Book Page: Ensure your book page on platforms like Amazon is optimized with a compelling description, high-quality cover image, and relevant keywords. Include an engaging author bio and professional author photo.
• Leverage SEO Techniques: Use search engine optimization (SEO) techniques to improve your book’s visibility. This includes using keywords related to your book’s genre and themes in your book description and metadata.
• Create Engaging Visuals: Invest in high-quality visuals, including your book cover and promotional graphics. Visual content is more likely to attract attention and entice potential readers.

Visualize Your Success

Launching a book successfully requires careful planning and execution. In order to be successful you need to believe in the reality you are creating for your self and your book. Take these common mistakes—neglecting pre-launch marketing, overlooking the importance of a launch team, and failing to optimize your book’s online presence— and reframe them as you visualize your successful pre-launch marketing, team, and online presence. Take the time to learn and implement these strategies to help significantly enhance your chances of a successful launch. Remember, the key to a successful book launch lies in building anticipation, leveraging support, and making your book easily discoverable online. 

FAQ

How far in advance should I start my pre-launch marketing?
Ideally, start your pre-launch marketing at least 6-8 weeks before your book’s release date to build sufficient buzz and anticipation. However, if you want true success, start posting about your book and building anticipation as soon as you decide your going to write it. Write about the process of creating your title and cover in a blog or social media post, take your audience on a day in the life of an author as you work on writing your book, etc.

What should I include in my book’s online presence optimization?
Focus on a compelling book description, high-quality cover image, relevant keywords, engaging author bio, and professional author photo.

Why is video content important for authors and entrepreneurs?
Video content is engaging, helps convey your message dynamically, and can reach a broader audience through platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.

How can I effectively manage my launch team?
Provide clear instructions, maintain regular communication, and show appreciation for their efforts with exclusive content or special gifts. We have an entire course about this, if you want to learn more! 

For more insights and strategies on leveraging your book to build your brand and business, stay tuned to our upcoming blogs!

1. Minimalism Reigns Supreme

Firstly, minimalism continues its reign. This trend emphasizes simplicity and subtlety. Covers feature less clutter, opting for clean lines and ample white space. Moreover, limited color palettes are in vogue, conveying stories through stark contrasts and understated elegance. The minimalist approach speaks volumes, enticing readers with its serene, uncluttered aesthetic.

2. Maximalism Takes A Stand

Conversely, covers featuring eye-catching designs are making waves. This trend is all about embracing extravagance and richness in design. Book covers under this trend are visual feasts, featuring an array of elements that come together in a harmonious yet complex composition. These covers are characterized by their eye-catching designs, often incorporating many colors, patterns, and textures. The artistry lies in the intricate layering of these elements. They blend seamlessly, creating a tapestry that’s both captivating and indicative of the book’s content.

3. Bold Typography Abounds

Bold typography is here to stay. As a complement to minimalist trends, covers showcase large, impactful fonts to draw attention. These typefaces are not mere text; they’re artistic statements. Often, they blend seamlessly with imagery, creating a cohesive and striking visual. This trend reflects a shift towards covers that are direct, assertive, and unapologetically eye-catching.

3. Hand-Drawn and Personalized Artwork

Next, there’s a rise in hand-drawn and personalized artwork. Custom illustrations are replacing stock images, offering uniqueness and personality. These covers feel intimate, as if the artist has left a piece of themselves on the cover. They range from intricate sketches to bold, abstract designs. Each cover becomes a one-of-a-kind piece, attracting readers who seek something truly special.

4. Nostalgic Elements with a Modern Twist

Lastly, nostalgia with a modern twist is a noteworthy trend. Designers are revisiting retro aesthetics, reimagining them for the contemporary audience. Infusing retro imagery with modern design principles will be sure to catch readers’ attention. This fusion creates covers that are both familiar and fresh, appealing to a wide range of readers.

2024‘s book cover trends reflect a blend of boldness, personalization, and innovation. These designs are not just protective covers; they’re storytelling mediums. They invite readers into new worlds, hinting at the wonders within. As publishers and authors, embracing these trends can make our books stand out in an ever-competitive market.

Remember, a book cover is the first conversation with your reader. Make it count with Elite Online Publishing.

FAQ

Question: How can self-published authors incorporate these trends cost-effectively? 

Answer: When a self-published author wants to use these cool book cover trends without spending a lot of money, they can try using design software that doesn’t cost much or find affordable artists on Fiverr or Upwork. You can also hire a professional Graphic Designer or Hire Elite Online Publishing to create your book cover. 

Question: Do these design trends change how people feel about a book before they read it? 

Answer: Yes, a book cover design can change how people feel about a book before they read it. A trendy, modern cover might make the book seem more exciting or fresh, while a classic or minimalistic design might give the impression of a serious or deep story. The cover sets the tone and expectations for what’s inside.

Question: How do these trends fit with e-readers and audiobooks? Since a lot of people read on devices or listen to books, it’s interesting to think about if and how these cover design trends matter in the digital world.

Answer: In the world of e-readers and audiobooks, the impact of these book cover trends might be a bit different. On e-readers, the cover still plays a role when people are browsing online, but it’s usually seen as a thumbnail, so the design needs to work well both big and small. The design needs to have contrast. A white book cover never looks good on a phone or a tablet as a thumbnail because it blends into the background of the book store’s website. Go for bright and bold colors with contrast. For audiobooks, covers also appear as tiny thumbnails, so the design has to be eye-catching even at that small scale.

Bold Lettering

Simple, unique, and bold lettering is a common trend that won’t be going away anytime soon. Attention grabbing designs such as these are staples that will surely show up more in 2023.

Vibrant Colors

Exceptionally bold and colorful designs are attracting readers to their favorite books. Many modern designs invoke retro styles and colors to connect with new audiences.

Simplistic Designs

Minimalistic designs meant to convey the meaning of a book with a simple glance are on the rise. Simple images project powerful messages in these beautiful designs.

Abstract Backgrounds

These abstract images allow readers to connect to the ideas the authors hope to convey. Clever designs made to connect easily with new audiences.

Even Weight

In recent years, there has been a growing popularity in this design trend that emphasizes the importance of a message over a name. This approach can be particularly advantageous for new or lesser-known authors looking to make a strong impression.

Real Photos

More and more people have gravitated to social media as audiences seek to grow closer to entertainment figures. This book trend capitalizes on this trend and breaks down barriers between reader and author. The best part? Professional photos are nothing more than a click away with modern day phones.

These are all popular book cover trends in 2023. Use these designs to inspire your own book cover for your new book! Check out our tutorial on how to make your own book cover to use for Amazon Publishing.
Find more trending 2023 graphic designs visit SammyTravis.com.

Check out our review of some of the top trends in books this year!

What are some of your favorite trends from 2023? Let us know in the comment!

The First TEN steps to Kick Off your Book Marketing

1. Create an awesome Amazon sales page by creating a compelling book description/synopsis that sells your book. Focus on the reader.
2. Claim and create your Amazon Author Page. When writing your bio, think about the reader. What can you do for them?
3. Use your best copywriting skills or hire a copywriter for your back cover synopsis. This is different from your book description on Amazon. It is usually shorter. Think about adding endorsements on your back cover as well. 
4. Add up to 7 photos and 7 videos to your Amazon author profile. Make sure the videos are less than 10 min. Use photos that represent you as the author. Keeping the reader in mind. What do they want to know about you?
5. Discount your book for launch day or look into KDP Select. Use a 99-cent promotion for your launch day, or look into what it means to have your book in KDP Select.
6. Reviews. The more the better and the sooner the better. When you get over 100 reviews in the first two weeks, your book will be promoted in emails by Amazon and seen by more people.
7. Post about your free or discounted book offer on free book sites. Find Facebook Groups or Linkedin Groups to offer your free or discounted book. 
8. Reach out to your friends and contacts for support. Create a book launch team of your clients, colleagues, friends, and family to help promote and leave reviews on launch day.
9. Promote your books on your social media accounts. Use social media to promote your book. Where do your readers hang out? Insta? Facebook? LinkedIn? TikTok?
10. Ask friends to post your book on their social media. Ask others to help promote you and give shout-outs. Or pay for ads and boost your post for more visibility.

To get help with your book marketing campaign contact us at Elite Online Publishing.

We offer a Book Marketing Portal to help you market your book. The Elite Marketing Portal is the perfect one-stop destination for authors looking to take their book marketing efforts to the next level. With video tutorials and templates specifically designed for marketing your book, Elite Online Publishing guarantees bestseller status for your book. The Elite Marketing Portal is available as a part of Elite’s publishing packages, or you can join our marketing membership for a small monthly fee. Please contact us for details and pricing.

Here are the detailed instructions.

HOW TO OPEN A MOBI eBook FILE on Computer Desktop, iPhone or Android

DESKTOP

On Desktop: To open the MOBI file you can right-click and open it with Kindle Reader or iBooks. To download Kindle reader for desktop.

 Go here: https://www.amazon.com/b/ref=ruby_redirect?ie=UTF8&node=16571048011

1. Choose the download option for PC & Mac.

2. Click on the downloaded file.

3. Save the downloaded file in a folder.

4. Wait for the application to successfully install. 

5. Once the application is installed, the Kindle App should appear on your screen. 

iPHONE

On iPhone: download the Kindle app, open your email to this email, click on the file and click on the Arrow with a box around it – click open in Kindle App or iBooks app.

1. Click on the App Store

2. Type on the search bar, “Kindle” or “Amazon Kindle.”

3. Choose Amazon Kindle, download the app, and open it.

4. The Kindle App will then open on your iPhone.

ANDROID PHONE

On Android phone: download the Kindle app Move Your Mobi File in the Kindle Folder. Select your MOBI file and tap on Move, and move it into the Kindle Folder in your external or internal storage. Open the Kindle app and read the book.

1. Go to your app drawer on your android device and click on the Play Store.

2. Type on the search bar, “Kindle” or “Amazon Kindle.”

3. Choose Amazon Kindle, download the app, and open it.

4. The Kindle App will then open on your Android.

So what is the truth? Believe it or not, but self-publishing your own manuscript can actually be a vital step toward landing a traditional contract with a literary agent and major publishing house. IngramSparks explains the process in Chapter 2 of their free online course How to Self-Publish:

“Traditional publishers and literary agents are going to take notice if you can prove you have a large following already, as they know there’s potential for those people to buy your book. This might be having a top YouTube channel (funny how most top YouTubers have books now), a TV show (especially for non-fiction, such as cooking), or even a popular blog. This is why it’s worth putting yourself out there and connecting with your audience before you even finish writing your book.”

This all makes sense once you think from the perspective of a business owner: If someone wanted you to stock your shelves with a new product that has little accessibility or even popularity, you’d be wary to order it, too. But if you see that the kid across the street has a line around the block for her thirst-quenching lemonade, then you’d be inclined to ask her to partner with you.

How can self-publishing grab the right attention, you might ask? IngramSparks continues to explain how with a few easy steps.

“Self-publishing and traditional publishing don’t have to be an either/or decision. For many authors, getting traditionally published is their dream, and like many things, the path to success in book publishing can be made of stepping stones.

As mentioned previously, the first big stepping stone to becoming traditionally published for many is finding a literary agent. This task can seem extremely daunting, but many have landed a literary agent or book deal by self-publishing first with the following tips:

• Hone Your Craft

First things first: you’ve got to be a good writer. Good writing is what grabs the attention of a literary agent. Write every day, write when you don’t want to, and write a lot. Even if you think what you’ve put on paper is bad, you’re actually refining your writing skills the more you exercise your writing abilities.

• Invite Yourself to the Party

When you’re just starting out, looking at publishing a book with a major publisher is like standing at the summit of Mount Everest. If you’re not in a position to make that quantum leap just yet (few are), then don’t worry about it! Platforms like IngramSpark allow writers to publish their own work, get it out into the world, and start making a name for themselves.

• Make Connections

At the end of the day, so much of your success in landing an agent is going to be who you know. Go to events, attend readings, and engage with people in the industry on social media.

• Use Self-Publishing as Your Launching Point

Your self-published book can help you build up your author platform and acquire sales to gain momentum behind your name. Once you’ve achieved this, it’s time to start thinking about your next project.”

So if you’re tired of emailing numerous literary agents and sick of seeing yet anotherrejection letter, you can have the best of both worlds by self-publishing that great story of yours. Or, another approach is that you could write a nonfiction (which typically does better self-published) and get enough popularity to bait a contract, then save your epic for the big fish. Either route will lead to creating a name for yourself as a successful author.

Luckily, here at Elite Online Publishing, we specialize in self-publishing manuscripts in a variety of genres, including fiction. Give us a call if you want any help promoting your book.

Source: https://www.booksandpublishing.com.au/articles/2018/10/12/117289/over-one-million-books-self-published-in-the-us-in-2017/

Ownership is great and being online helps open you up to the other options out there. When self-publishing you may experience struggles with getting your books enough exposure. However, the costs and experience of putting the book together can bring about many revelations. Here are a few keys to success:

Focus and get it done –

One challenge of self-publishing is the lack of deadlines. You can become too relaxed in terms of demands on your own time. If you have no deadline pushing you, you can take as long as 10 years or more. You may have to create your own deadlines and it may mean being a hermit at home to write sometimes.

Relax and let it flow –

You will have writer’s block. This can cause your project to take longer. Don’t pressure yourself too much. Relax through it and go with the flow. Allow yourself some grace during the dry spells while remembering your objective and it will come to you.

Research and ask for help –

Research, Google and YouTube searches are your friends. Do your research. Join writing groups and ask questions. People are more willing to help than you realize. You may choose to pay someone for their service. Editors and others can make your book more polished. Others can help with publicity. There are companies out there like ours that can facilitate much of the busy work. We can take many of the hassles out of a challenging endeavor.  If you don’t love research, dealing with Facebook, waiting for uploads, formatting then you may want a partner in publishing.  That’s where a company like ours comes into play.  We can find and facilitate the services you need to succeed.

Thicken your skin –

If you’ve asked people to critique your work, do not be hurt when they say ‘this reads wrong’ or ‘I don’t understand this’ because that will sink any sort of mistakes that people will catch. One of our authors, Author Cory Jenkins, who just published the Amazon bestseller “I Love Myself So… A Guide to Creating a Life You Love,” said “You can read your own book as many times as you like and still miss so many mistakes. You know what you mean to say so your mind reads it that way.  Also, if you’re reading it just after writing it, then you read it as you meant to write it.  You need a gap in between writing and reading. When I came back and read my book after a few months, I found several mistakes that grammar check wouldn’t normally catch. None of which I had noticed because I knew what I meant to say. I also saw flaws in the organization that I had missed before. I was able to completely reorganize it and release the second edition.”

Make it a priority –

Outside pressures from work, friends, and family will come. The best way to view writing your book is as a second job. Give it as much importance as anything in life that you want to get done. You have nobody to police you, but you, so prioritize, to keep from getting frustrated.

It doesn’t have to be a 400-page novel about your business. It need only be relevant enough to engage your intended readers. It can be a self-help on entrepreneurship or a memoir about your journey to where you are today. Either, can build trust and encourage more authentic connections with your audience.  Here’s a quick version of everything you need to know.

How to publish your book

Before starting your book, first consider your subject carefully.  Is there a gap in your industry that you would like to fill? Do you have a specific point you to make? Are you telling your story or teaching a lesson?  Whatever the answer, be sure it’s something you’re passionate about. That will keep you writing when the writing gets tough.  It’s important to write on a topic you know well and about which you feel you have wisdom to share. Making your book personal can add an authenticity that makes the message more powerful.

Writing a book is no easy feat, but if you approach it one chapter at a time, it won’t feel so daunting. Set realistic goals for each week and hold yourself accountable to meeting them. Once you dive in, you might even find yourself doing even more than you expected.

Keep in mind that you don’t have to (and shouldn’t) do this alone.  You will want to ask for advice from other writers or publishers and you may also want to hire an editor. This may even be an endeavor you want to collaborate on with another writer in the same or another complimentary industry. All these options can assist you in the process.  It’s important you enjoy the entire process, not just the idea of having a book published and seeing your business thrive from it.  If you dread the hard work you’re putting in each day, it shows in your writing.

Having an expert such as a publisher and/or and editor is quite helpful, especially in building the structure for the book’s content.  It’s helpful to have someone to spark ideas about what readers might find most useful and interesting about the topic you’ve spent years understanding.”

The editing stage can be grueling, and it could mean taking months going over the same chapters. For this reason, it’s crucial to have a second pair of eyes look over your work.  It’s easy to miss errors or become attached to work you’ve spent months, even years, on. A good editor can give you the polished, professional result that will best represent your business.

When you feel your book is ready to be read, you can either self-publish or find an agent and/or publisher to represent you and your story.  The experience, expertise, and support of an established publisher can be invaluable. The best of both worlds can be employing a publishing company like ours that assists you in the process of self-publishing so you retain all the rights to your finished work.

How it can build your business

Your experience writing can build on your own ideas as you prepare to share those lessons with your audience. Writing can inspire your unprecedented growth in your life and perfect your ability to explain the benefits of your business to others.

Your book will become an example of how much you love what you do.  It will ultimately raise your profile as a business leader in your industry, establishing you as an expert in a particular field or on a specific topic.  This builds trust in your business as well as your professional and personal connections with clients. People do business with people they know like and trust.