In the past, self publishing was a big undertaking for writers, who had to pay for all the paper and binding costs. But today, self publishing may be accomplished with the touch of a few buttons. For some, it may even be an open doorway into the world of full-time self-employment.
Self-Published Bestsellers
Books self-published through Amazon’s Kindle don’t look all that different from books placed on the e-market by big name, brick-and-mortar publishers. For some writers, self-publishing is actually the more attractive option.
John Locke of Louisville, Kentucky, recently sold more than a million copies of his books through Amazon’s Kindle store, a milestone for self-publishing. Locke decided to write and publish his novellas without the aid of an agent or publisher. Today, he has an agent -- but only for film, television and other media rights. Locke earns thirty-five cents for every copy of his books that are downloaded (which retail for 99 cents apiece), and he’s very pleased with the results.
Not all self-published authors are destined for this kind of success, but it does prove there’s a great opportunity out there for those who want to pursue self-employment through writing.
Self-Publishing with Amazon
Amazon gives authors many different self-publishing options. Through Amazon’s self-publishing options, writers have the opportunity to name their own price for their work. The writer uploads all text and images for their creation straight to Amazon, and in a relatively short period of time the work is available for download through the Kindle Store. Just like that, and any writer may make their work available to the masses.
To start self-publishing with Amazon, simply sign up for a publisher account on the website. Amazon offers three different options for writers who want to self-publish; select one, and proceed from there. Follow the on-screen prompts to submit the book, set the price and get started as a self-employed, self-published (potentially bestselling!) author.
Self-Publishing Disadvantages
Self-publishing may sound perfect for frustrated writers who have repeatedly been rejected by agents and publishers, but it is by no means the best solution for everyone. Authors who self-publish are completely on their own in all marketing efforts. Someone’s got to spread the word about the books, or it’s likely they won’t sell. True, it only takes one fan to start telling others, but finding that fan may take a little finesse. Authors who self-publish take advantage of social media sites, like Facebook and Twitter, to promote their work.
KC Morgan - KC Morgan has been the featured writer in Self-Employment since 2006, using personal experience to create guides to being self-employed.
Join the Conversation