Self Publish or Search for an Agent?

Everybody wants to see their manuscript in book form. But how do you take the magical step from printing it out and getting it bound? Self-publishing has become a popular alternative to the standard route of finding an agent and having them try to sell your work to a publishing house. Consider self-publishing the equivalent of using an independent film or recording studio; your work gets produced into a marketable product, which can be very self gratifying; but like independent films and recordings, self-publishing is only the beginning of the process of becoming successful.

There are advantages and disadvantages to self-publishing a completed manuscript. Knowing your ultimate goal will help facilitate the decision whether or not to self-publish. Consider the following issues before deciding:

1. Is your goal to become a recognized author or just to publish a book? If you have written a memoir or family history that would be valuable to a small market, self-publishing is a great way to get your story into a professional looking product that will be a keepsake and possibly an heirloom to be passed down through generations. This applies to a person who has been involved in some historic event and would like to leave behind written documentation of his personal experiences.

2. Before considering self-publishing, have an editor read your manuscript to correct any grammatical and spelling errors. An editor can also ensure that the content is not ambiguous and clearly conveys your meaning. When working with an agent and a traditional publishing house, all manuscripts are read by editors; but even if your plan is to submit a manuscript to an agent, having an editor review your work first will ensure that the manuscript is well polished.

3. Choosing self-publishing can get your book in print and ready for distribution in a relatively short period of time. Going the traditional route requires a boatload of patience. Did you know that even if an agent selects your manuscript and choose to represent you, it can take two years before the book will actually be in print?

4. Many traditional publishing houses are on the lookout for self-published books that attract attention and interest in the marketplace. Then they may approach the author for the rights to the book so that they can share the wealth. Publishing is a business; the large companies are looking at the bottom line. If your self published book is selling well, a publisher may want to "discover" the author.

5. It is important to ask yourself this question: Am I willing to market my book once it has been self-published? There are a number of ways to market books; many self-publishing companies offer marketing packages - for an additional fee. If you are ambitious and passionate about your work, there are many resources available to help bring your book to the attention of your target market. Marketing budgets for new writers are small in traditional publishing houses. Self-publishing requires a motivated writer, or one who can afford to hire a publicist to market the product.

6. Self-publishing can seem inexpensive at first glance To be successful, it is essential that you can afford not only the base price for the contract, but also have the resources to purchase enough copies to do some promotion. Sending your book to newspapers, radio talk shows, television shows that feature local authors, book reviewers, and members of your target market is just a start at getting name recognition and reviews that will help to get your book noticed.

7. Know the market. Currently, the major publishing companies are looking for books on specific topics that are considered "hot." Unfortunately, these topics don't necessarily reflect what the general population in your area considers to be of particular interest. If you have written a manuscript on a hot topic, it may be worthwhile to try to find an agent. This information is available in the "2007 Writer's Market" by looking at each agent's specialties. If your work is not going to be widely marketable, self-publishing may be the way to go, but keep in mind you may not make money.

8. If you choose to take the route of self-publishing, spend the time necessary to compare different companies. Prices can vary widely along with the type of services offered. Be prepared to do some work after the finished product is in your hand. Writing the book is only the first step!

Writing a book is a labor of love; something you do because you can't help yourself. If your goal is to get rich, I'd suggest you have a backup plan. There's a reason they call us "starving artists" and it has nothing to do with anorexia.