Every publisher wants to sell books. That goes for self-publishers every bit as much as for legacy publishers. Publishers invest in authors. They spend money to cover the cost of publishing. They spend money on marketing and distribution. That goes for self-publishers every bit as much as for legacy publishers.
That’s why a publisher needs to decide if you’re an author worth investing in. Since you’re the publisher in” self-publisher,” one way to evaluate your potential for success is to determine if you’re a writer worth investing in. Here are 12 questions to help you assess whether you’re a good bet to write a successful nonfiction book.
From a reader’s perspective
What do prospective readers know about you?
Have they read things that you’ve written?
Have they heard you speak at a conference?
Have they attended a workshop or other training that you led?
How’s your name recognition among prospective readers?
From a writing perspective
Have you already written about the subject of your book?
Do you have a fund of stories you can use in your book?
Do you have other examples that you can use?
Do you have research surveys or studies you will use in your book?
Do you know experts whom you can interview?
From a marketing perspective
Do you have a significant social media presence?
Do you have a regular way to contact prospective readers?
Takeaways
Self-publishers and legacy publishers want to invest in authors who can write and help sell good books.
If you’re going to self-publish, evaluate yourself as an author who can write and help sell books.
What do prospective readers know about you?
Do you have stories, examples, and research that will enrich your book?
Do you have a strong social media presence?
What are you known for among prospective readers?