Choosing a Publishing Path: 14 Factors to Consider

As a new author, explore your publishing path, determine the best course, make informed choices, and launch your writing career with confidence.

“Publishing has changed so much in the past decade, and the traditional model is no longer the only path to success.” – Marie Force

 

 

Embarking on a writing career is an exciting and transformative journey for a new author. A crucial decision that can significantly impact your success is choosing the right publishing path. It should align with your personal goals and aspirations for your writing career.

To help you navigate this complex landscape, we created a comprehensive three-part series exploring the primary publishing options available: Self-Publishing, Traditional Publishing, and Hybrid Publishing. Each installment delves into the respective publishing method’s pros, cons, and key considerations to empower you with the knowledge needed to make the best decision for your unique goals and circumstances.

When deciding the route you want to take (self-publishing, traditional publishing, or hybrid publishing), it’s crucial to consider your personal goals and objectives first and foremost. Then it’s essential to assess the resources and support network available to you for each route. To help you make an informed decision about the best publishing path for your writing career, let’s delve deeper into evaluating all the factors you should consider.

 

Evaluating Personal Goals & Objectives

The best starting place is knowing yourself. What are your wants and needs? With those in mind, it’ll be easier to make decisions about publishing resources.

 

Goals & expectations

Start by identifying your goals and expectations for your writing career. Are you seeking recognition and prestige, or are you primarily focused on creative control and independence? Having a clear understanding of your priorities will help you align your choice of publishing path with your long-term objectives. It can save you grief in the long run. A writing career, like writing itself, “is a marathon, not a sprint” (Robert McKee).

 

Financial considerations

Budget plays a significant role in determining the best publishing option. Self-publishing requires upfront investments in editing, cover design, formatting, and marketing, which can be expensive. Traditional publishing typically when choosing a publishing path.

 

Creative control

If you value creative freedom and autonomy, you may prefer self-publishing. It allows you to make decisions about your work without interference. However, those who are open to letting go of some freedom to gain collaboration and guidance from industry professionals might find traditional publishing more appealing.

 

Time commitment & workload

You should assess the time and effort you’re willing to devote to the publishing process. Self-publishing demands considerable time and energy to handle tasks like editing, formatting, marketing, and distribution. In contrast, traditional publishing provides professional support, allowing you to focus more on your writing. Balancing time commitments and workload is essential when selecting a publishing route. Project management software. Asana, ClickUp, and Trello all have FREE versions.

 

Skills & resources

You should evaluate your skills and resources when considering a publishing path. For self-publishing, do you have the skills or connections to handle editing, cover design, and marketing effectively? Alternatively, are you willing to invest in professional services to fill any gaps? For traditional publishing, do you have the patience and persistence to find an agent and secure a publishing deal?

 

Target audience & genre

Different publishing paths may be more suitable for specific genres and target audiences. Some genres, such as romance or science fiction, have thriving self-publishing communities, while literary fiction or non-fiction might benefit more from the credibility and distribution offered by traditional publishing. You should research your genre’s market trends and consider your target audience’s preferences when choosing a publishing path.

 

Long-term career strategy

Consider your long-term career strategy when selecting a publishing route. Some authors may choose to start with self-publishing to build a readership before transitioning to traditional publishing. Others may prefer to focus exclusively on one publishing path. Reflecting on long-term career goals and developing a strategy can help authors make an informed decision.

When choosing a publishing path, you should consider your goals and expectations, financial considerations, time commitment and workload, creative control, skills and resources, target audience and genre, and long-term career strategy. By thoroughly evaluating these factors, you can make a well-informed decision about the best publishing route for your writing career.

During a recent book fair, I overheard other authors chatting about their publishing experiences. One was a traditionally published author, who was fascinated by the creative freedom the other author enjoyed through self-publishing. While sharing their stories, one mentioned a humorous mishap that occurred during her book launch.

 

In her eagerness to promote her book, she accidentally priced it at $99.99 instead of $9.99! Surprisingly, she still managed to sell a couple of copies before realizing her mistake and correcting the price. They both had a good laugh, and it reminded me that, regardless of the publishing path we choose, we all have our share of amusing and humbling learning moments along the journey.

 

Evaluating Resources & Support

As a new author, it’s essential to assess the resources and support network available to you when choosing a publishing path. Having a solid understanding of the assistance you can access can significantly impact your decision and your overall success. Here are the key areas you should consider.

 

Professional services

Determine which professional services you have access to or can afford. These may include editors, cover designers, formatters, marketing specialists, or literary agents. Self-publishing often requires authors to invest in professional services, so consider your budget and whether you can assemble a team to help you produce a high-quality book.

 

Mentorship & guidance

As a new author, having access to experienced authors, mentors, or industry professionals can be invaluable. Their insights can help you navigate the publishing landscape, make informed decisions, and avoid common pitfalls. Consider whether you have connections or can find mentorship within the self-publishing community or the traditional publishing industry.

 

Writing community

Engaging with a writing community, whether online or in person, can offer valuable support and encouragement. Networking with fellow writers can lead to helpful feedback, collaboration opportunities, and the sharing of resources and experiences. Assess your current connections and the communities you can join to bolster your support network.

 

Platform & readership

Building a platform and readership is crucial for both self-published and traditionally published authors. Evaluate the resources and support available to help you grow your platform, such as social media, blogging, or email marketing. Consider whether you have access to individuals or organizations that can help you reach your target audience and increase your visibility.

 

Personal support system

Your personal support system, including family and friends, can play a significant role in your writing journey. Their encouragement, understanding, and assistance can make the publishing process less daunting and more enjoyable. Assess the level of support you have from your loved ones and consider how it might impact your choice of publishing path.

 

Educational resources

Learning about the publishing industry and honing your craft is crucial for success. Investigate the educational resources available to you, such as online courses, workshops, webinars, books, or blogs. Determine whether these resources align with your chosen publishing path and whether you can help you achieve your goals.

 

Financial support

Self-publishing requires upfront investments, while traditional publishing typically covers production and marketing costs. Examine your financial support network, such as savings, grants, or crowdfunding options, to help you cover any expenses associated with your chosen publishing path.

TIP: See our blog, 5 Tips to Avoid Publishing Scams: Protect Your Author Career

CONCLUSION

When evaluating the resources and support network available to you, consider professional services, mentorship and guidance, writing community, platform and readership, personal support system, educational resources, and financial support. By taking stock of the assistance you can access, you’ll be better equipped to choose the right publishing path for your writing career and set yourself up for success.

You have the power to shape your writing career. You determine which route aligns with your goals and aspirations. As you embark on your writing journey, remember that success in publishing requires your dedication, adaptability, and a willingness to learn. Keep refining your craft, and never lose sight of your passion for writing.

Whichever path you take (Self-Publishing, Traditional Publishing, or Hybrid Publishing), the crucial part is to follow your passion. Stay true to your dream. With this knowledge, make informed choices. Now go conquer the publishing world. Your readers await!

Don’t wait. Start today!

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