Top 10 Self Publishing Mistakes to Avoid as a New Author

Self Publishing Mistakes

You might have heard from somewhere that self-publishing your book can make you tens of thousands in revenue. Yes, there are a lot of pros to self-publishing compared to traditional publishing: more freedom and control in publishing, better revenue, and no deadline to annoy your writing process.

This might suggest that self-publishing is easy, right? Wrong! If you’re not too careful, you can make these self publishing mistakes that can ruin your masterpiece. Think about it; all that hard work, tireless nights, and broken moments while writing your book do not amount to anything.

Our aim is not to frighten you but to help you understand why tracking down and eliminating these mistakes is crucial if you want to be renowned as an author. That’s why we put together a list of the top self publishing mistakes that new authors make. Before you even consider self-publishing, it is important that you give this 10-minute cautionary guide a quick go-through first.

Self Publishing Mistakes You Should Never Make as an Author

1. Skipping Professional Editing

Professional editing is an important step in the publishing process that many new authors neglect, often because of the costs involved. However, if you happen to skip this step for any reason, be it saving time or resources, you’re just setting up your masterpiece for failure.

Editors bring an objective perspective, catching errors and inconsistencies that the author may overlook. They refine the manuscript, ensuring it’s polished and ready for publication. Without professional editing, it could lead to grammatical errors, awkward sentence structures, and plot inconsistencies. These can quickly annoy the most patient of readers leading to the worst thing imaginable: Negative Reviews. Even a single bad review can damage you and your books reputations.

New authors should see professional editing as an investment rather than an expense. Platforms like Fiverr and Reedsy offer access to freelance editors at various price points, making it possible to find help within your budget. Additionally, beta readers can provide initial feedback before the editing process begins. For those operating on a tight budget, services offered by full-service self-publishing companies often include affordable editing options, so make sure to keep an eye out for them. By prioritizing professional editing, authors ensure their book meets industry standards and delights readers.

2. Poor Book Design

The design of a book—from its cover to its interior layout—is often the first thing a potential reader notices. A poorly designed cover can decrease readership, while a professional and appealing one can capture attention and convey the book’s genre, tone, and quality.

Interior formatting, including font choices, text alignment, and spacing, also impacts the reader’s experience. Books that are difficult to read due to poor formatting or amateurish covers are likely to receive lower ratings and fewer recommendations.

Investing in professional book design is essential for creating a strong first impression. Websites like 99designs and independent designers offer bespoke services to suit different budgets.
For DIY options, tools like Canva can help create simple yet effective designs. Remember, the cover is often the first point of contact for your audience; a captivating, professionally designed cover can be the deciding factor in whether a reader picks up your book.

3. Inadequate Formatting

There’s a reason as to why every writer should know how to format a book for publishing. Formatting errors can quickly alienate readers, whether the book is in digital or print format. Issues such as inconsistent fonts, poorly aligned text, or improper margins can make a book difficult to read.

For ebooks, proper formatting ensures the content is accessible on multiple devices and adheres to platform guidelines. For print books, formatting must align with industry standards to avoid technical issues during printing.
Authors should consider using professional formatting services or specialized software like Vellum to create both print and digital formats. Platforms such as Amazon KDP provide basic tools, but advanced formatting ensures a polished final product. Proper formatting enhances readability and signals professionalism, encouraging positive reviews and repeat readers.

4. Overlooking Marketing Efforts

A common misconception among new authors is that writing the book is the hard part, and once published, it will sell itself. If you are also one of them, then we advice you to swat away these thoughts as quickly as possible.

Even believing such a thing can lead to disappointing sales and wasted potential. Marketing is an integral part of self-publishing and begins long before the book is released. Without a robust marketing strategy, even the best books struggle to reach their target audience.

Pre-launch efforts, such as building an email list, engaging with readers on social media, and generating buzz through sneak peeks and giveaways, can significantly boost visibility. Post-launch, strategies like seeking reviews, leveraging influencer partnerships, and running ads on social media platforms like Facebook and Google can amplify the book’s reach. If you have the budget, then we recommend partnering with a marketing professional to boost your book awareness.

5. Neglecting Metadata Optimization

Metadata—the title, subtitle, description, keywords, and categories—plays a crucial role in how a book is discovered online. Many authors underestimate its importance, but poor metadata can mean the difference between a book that sells and one that goes unnoticed. Effective metadata ensures that your book appears in relevant searches, increasing its visibility to potential readers.

Authors should conduct keyword research to identify terms their audience is likely to search for. For instance, using tools like Publisher Rocket can reveal popular keywords and categories within a specific genre. By prioritizing metadata, authors can significantly enhance their book’s discoverability and sales potential.

6. Setting Unrealistic Expectations

The allure of becoming an overnight success can lead to disappointment for many first-time authors. Self-publishing is a long-term commitment that often requires patience, persistence, and realistic goal-setting.

It is even necessary to understand that it is rare for your first book to not make as much as you expect. Expecting immediate success or massive sales can lead to frustration and even abandonment of future projects. The more you are aware of the reality of Amazon bookselling, the better you can avoid disappointment.

To boost your chances of success, it’s crucial to set achievable milestones, such as gaining a set number of reviews or building a following on social media. These incremental goals not only make the journey more manageable but also provide opportunities to celebrate progress. Understanding that self-publishing success is a marathon, not a sprint, allows authors to focus on continuous improvement and long-term growth.

7. Ignoring Distribution Options

Limiting distribution channels is another common self-publishing mistake. While platforms like Amazon dominate the market, relying solely on them restricts your book’s reach. Expanding distribution to platforms like IngramSpark, Kobo, and Barnes & Noble ensures broader availability and increases the likelihood of reaching diverse audiences.

Authors aiming for physical bookstore placements need to ensure their books meet retail standards, such as professional design and competitive pricing. Print-on-demand services are a cost-effective way to make books available worldwide without the need for large print runs. By diversifying distribution, authors can tap into multiple revenue streams and maximize their book’s potential.

8. Neglecting Author Branding

Author branding is not just for established writers. Building a personal brand helps new authors connect with their audience and establish a loyal reader base. A consistent online presence via social media, a professional website, and email newsletters allows authors to showcase their personality and values.

Sharing behind-the-scenes content, engaging with readers, and discussing topics related to your genre can foster a sense of community. Defining your unique voice and style early on creates a solid foundation for future book launches. Branding isn’t just about promoting a single book; it’s about creating an impression that keeps readers coming back for more. Don’t make the self-publishing mistake of not investing on author branding otherwise you will just be left with a one-hit wonder.

9. Rushing the Publishing Process

Publishing a book is a significant achievement, but rushing through the process can lead to avoidable mistakes that harm its quality and reception. From inadequate editing to hasty marketing efforts, rushing often results in missed opportunities to refine and perfect the book.

Taking the time to thoroughly edit, format, and market your book ensures it meets professional standards. Building in buffer time for revisions, cover design adjustments, and promotional planning allows authors to approach the publishing process thoughtfully. Remember, quality takes time, and a well-prepared launch is more likely to succeed than one that feels rushed.

10. Failing to Enjoy the Journey

Self-publishing is a demanding process, but it’s also a unique opportunity to express creativity and connect with readers. Many authors get caught up in the stress of deadlines and sales targets, losing sight of the joy that comes with bringing a book to life.

Taking time to celebrate milestones—finishing a draft, completing the cover design, or receiving the first positive review—can make the journey more fulfilling. Seeking support from writing communities or hiring professionals for challenging tasks can alleviate stress. Ultimately, self-publishing is as much about the experience as it is about the outcome. Embrace the process, and remember why you started this journey in the first place.

Debunking Common Myths About Self-Publishing

It’s not just self publishing mistakes that you should be aware of; you should also avoid common myths that surround it. Self-publishing is surrounded by misconceptions that often discourage new authors from exploring this rewarding avenue. Addressing these myths not only clarifies the process but also empowers authors to approach self-publishing with confidence. Here are some common myths and the realities behind them:

1. Myth: Self-publishing is easy

Reality: While platforms like Amazon KDP make it accessible, self-publishing requires significant effort in writing, editing, designing, and marketing to achieve success.

2. Myth: You don’t need to spend money.

Reality: Quality investments in editing, design, and marketing are often necessary to produce a professional-looking book.

3. Myth: Self-published books don’t sell.

Reality: With effective strategies, self-published authors can achieve significant success, as seen with authors like E.L. James.

4. Myth: Marketing isn’t important.

Reality: Marketing is crucial to make your book visible to readers. Without it, even the best books can go unnoticed.

5. Myth: You can’t transition to traditional publishing.

Reality: Many self-published authors have landed traditional deals after demonstrating success in the market.

Final Note:

Self-publishing is a journey filled with exciting opportunities for growth, creativity, and connection. By avoiding these common self publishing mistakes and addressing the misconceptions surrounding them, you, as a new author, can approach the process with confidence and clarity.

Remember that each step—from editing to marketing—contributes to the success of your book and builds your skills as an author. With patience and persistence, self-publishing can become a rewarding and fulfilling adventure. Whether you’re aiming for bestseller status or simply want to share your story, the self-publishing path is yours to explore and enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does self-publishing typically cost?

The cost of self-publishing varies widely, depending on the services you invest in. For example, professional editing can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, while cover design and formatting services add to the total. Additionally, you might spend on marketing campaigns, such as social media ads or influencer collaborations. At the same time, platforms like Amazon KDP offer free uploading; investing in these areas ensures a more polished and competitive book.

Can I self-publish and later approach traditional publishers?

Absolutely! Many self-published authors, after achieving success, attract the attention of traditional publishers and literary agents. By demonstrating a strong sales record and building an audience, you increase your chances of transitioning to traditional publishing while maintaining control over your current work.

What’s the best platform for self-publishing?

Amazon KDP is often the first choice for its simplicity and market dominance. However, platforms like IngramSpark and Kobo provide additional distribution options, especially if you want to expand your reach into bookstores and international markets. Using multiple platforms can maximize your visibility and sales potential.

How important is an author’s website?

An author’s website is vital for building your personal brand and connecting with readers. It acts as a hub for showcasing your books, sharing updates, and growing an email list. A professional website adds credibility, making it easier to market your work and engage with fans.

Do I need a professional editor?

Yes, hiring a professional editor is highly recommended. Editors ensure your manuscript is polished, free of errors, and aligned with industry standards. Skipping this step can lead to negative reviews and harm your reputation as an author. Consider this investment as a cornerstone for your book’s success.

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