The Other Disadvantages of Self-Publishing



Gorf L-Abjad, Malta



Proofreading

A self-published author has to proofread their own work, or pay someone to do so.  To create the right impression with readers, it is not a good idea to publish a work of fact or fiction that contains errors whether these are factual errors, spelling or grammatical errors.  Errors can detract from the enjoyment of the book, and could result in bad publicity, readers not recommending your book to others, or not purchasing future works by the same author.

Readability

A self-published author needs to have their work evaluated by someone who will give them an honest opinion as to whether or not their book is worth publishing – will it be of interest to others?

A professional publisher would undertake the above two tasks, but these roles do not fall within the auspices of a self-publishing organisation – they will publish your work regardless of errors, or readability, because you are paying them to do so.  They will also ask you to sign a clause that states you accept full responsibility for the content, etc, so that they have no legal responsibility in the event of plagiarism, etc.

Electronic Versions

Some self-publishing organisations will charge extra for producing and selling electronic versions, but there are many websites who will sell an electronic version for a percentage of the royalty if you can submit it in the correct format. 

Also, research should be carried out into the cost of setting up your own website from which you can sell your book before you commit to a self-publishing organisation doing this for you as they could charge you much more.

Reaching the Public

Only those who are already aware of your book’s existence are likely to find it on the Amazon website, or the publisher’s website, as it will be like ‘looking for a needle in a haystack’.  Correct information will need to be entered in the Search Criteria to lead potential customers to its details.  If anybody else finds it, it will be ‘pot luck’.

Personal Sales

It is very difficult to sell your book to friends and family who think you are trying to make a profit out of them.  Many people will expect you to give them a copy of the book free of charge.

Selling to Retailers

No bookshop is going to pay you in advance of selling your books.  You will probably need to leave them on a ‘Sale or Return’ basis, and then go back to obtain payment.  Some organisations might not pay you, some books may be stolen or just disappear, and that is not only your royalty gone, but you have also had to cover the printing cost.

And finally ‘The Big One’

The Cost of Self- Publishing

This can vary from organisation to organisation, as does the level of service included in the cost. 

Also, I have heard some horrific stories of organisations taking the payment, which has to be made in advance, and then disappearing or going bankrupt.  In this situation, the author could lose a substantial amount of money.

The answer is to do your research before you commit to using the services of a specific self-publishing organisation.