As you begin to think about your new book it’s important to decide upfront what your end goal is. There are three different ways to approach a non-fiction book in the self-publishing world, and each serves a unique purpose. I’ll explain the three (3) different types here:

1 – Writing for posterity

If you would like to write a book that reflects your viewpoint or lessons learned, without concern for profit or gain, then you may find yourself in this category. Maybe it’s a personal story that you just need to get out into the world, or perhaps you have some advice and tips you would like to share. Other types of authors that self publish in this area are those who are wanting to make a difference in the world. Or, they have a small business where a book could help serve their clients.

As you tell your story or share a proven roadmap this book often is meant to build more visibility and credibility for your brand. Typically if you desire to be this type of author, then one focused book maybe all that you’ll need to to attract infuencers and readers in your niche. In this scenario, the profit comes later through course offerings and speaking engagements, rather than from the sale of the book itself.

As a self-published author you stand to gain more trust and establish yourself as a leading authority or expert in your topic without the constraints imposed by traditional publishing. This book could be the springboard to your future goals whether you are planning to write for profit or as a lead for a business venture.

2 – Career as an independent author

Writing for profit is a great way to make a living when done correctly. Your goal may be to have a full-time writing career and the income to support that. As you continue to work in your current position you can publish books that can be promoted over time. Many choose this side-gig as a new business, and like most endeavors, it will take time to establish and become profitable.

As an indie author you might consider creating your own publishing imprint, and work with others to help make this a success. For example, you may find yourself hiring various agencies or freelancers to help you in this new business. Keep in mind that you’ll want to remain open-minded and flexible during this time of building this new endeavor along with a bit of patience mixed in.

There are many who think that by just publishing a book they will immediately start seeing monetary results. But in reality, it will require hard work and dedication on your part and could take a year or longer to fully see results for all of your efforts. While working with a traditional publishing company has its benefits, being an independent author gives you all decision-making capability and higher profits.

If you have decided to set foot out onto this path do not be dissuaded by the difficulties you might experience. Think of these as stepping stones, and in the end you will have more freedom and control over your work. It’s a wonderful feeling to know that your books belong to you!

A successful indie author will look to those who are more seasoned. They do not give up, and they work well with others as a team. They are also constant learners who are always growing in their knowledge and profession. They understand all of the different genres, and which one works best for their publishing goals. In the end a unique brand voice is generated, which helps these types of authors to stand out from the rest.

Have you published a book yet? If so, congratulations! You are now the CEO of your own self publishing business. You are in charge of the direction you would like to go in and how you will be paid. As you continue to exercise your publishing muscle you will start to experience the rewards of your new found career, including:

• More recognition from industry peers

• Creative license to write what you want to write

• Opportunities in new ventures and collaborations

• A go-to resource for your target market

Expect to go well beyond all of this – marketing will also become a focal point in your email communications, website and social media accounts. It’s important to find the right tools for this type of business that will help you along and improve your efficiency.

If you haven’t yet published that first book, remember – it doesn’t need to be a complicated read. Short books are in vogue due to the busy lives your readers live. Give them the meat of your work, and they will be satisfied.

3 – Business owners turned authors

For those who have spent much of their lives creating and building a business, publishing a book may be the next step in growing a successful brand. This might come following a series of videos, blog posts, podcasts, ect. It’s a stepping stone to the next level.

An entrepreneur who chooses to become an author is already an independent thinker with a focus on growing their career. Publishing becomes a very creative way to attract more clients and networking opportunities. This type of author should know how create a well written book; and, also manage the marketing and day to day activities of self publishing.

If you already have these types of skills then it may make sense for you to take this next step. Keep in mind that you will be in charge of all of the promotional tasks, marketing campaigns, and sales management. Outsourcing a lot of these jobs will help you make this more successful.

It’s easier than ever today to establish yourself as an ‘authorpreneur’ with eBooks, audiobooks, and print-on-demand. Many business owners will initially use platforms like Amazon and Barnes and Noble to initially sell their books, and eventually create their own eCommerce website for their books and business.

As new topics and trends continue to emerge it will become vital for business owners to become self published authors who want to project their own voice to their audience and stand out from the rest. You can remain fresh in your industry by publishing innovative books.

Books will always be in demand as people share them on social media, download to their phones and tablets, and listen to their topics of interest. Video has now tied all of this together, and compliments visual content, bringing all of your messaging together.

The strong emergence of the self published author has launched a new era of self reliant business owners who go beyond just the written word. With an entrepreneurial mindset in your approach you can set apart your book from the competition and make a unique name for yourself.

In conclusion, you need to decide what direction to take as an indie self published author. Ask yourself, do I want to turn this into a career or do I want to make a statement? Or do I want to further establish my brand authority through a well-crafted book that speaks to my clients?

As you move forward it is important to be clear on your future goals as an author, and where your writing venture will take you next.

Need assistance deciding or embarking on this journey? Set up a free consultation with me: https://susangilbert.com/start-here/