RSSIndie Writers’s New World Order
Mar 21
A Writer's Blog Comments Off
A few years ago, conventional wisdom said that the cost of paper had put a stranglehold on the book industry, forcing major publishing companies to be more selective about where to put their investment dollars. Like the music industry, this meant that proven sellers were going to get the full faith and backing of the major publishers and independent authors risked being frozen out altogether.
Technology has leveled the playing field in many respects. Print on demand has allowed unsigned authors to publish their titles with low upfront cost and still be listed and promoted through amazon and other major online retailers. Further, physical stores can stock or special order those titles, so indie writers aren’t entirely shut out of the physical bookstore marketplace either.
Digital distribution is another huge boon to the independent writer. Kindle editions are picking up steam and electronic delivery has gone mainstream. Like its album counterparts, the cost of production is already completed before the electronic versions are created so they can be offered for less than the physical books without hurting the author’s revenue base.
The true benefit of a signing with a major publishing company is the ability to gain massive exposure right on the publication date. Most authors, except those in the stratosphere of sales, are responsible for their own marketing and promotion. Signing with a major publisher doesn’t necessarily change that. What it does is put more clout behind your efforts. What it can do is reach a exponential number of potential customers and fans with the same amount of effort that might not be as effective for indie authors.
The trick for indie authors is to focus on what actions are manageable for you. Many indie artists (not just musicians and authors) have to work a day job in addition working -- and promoting -- their craft. The challenge is two-fold. What can you do that is realistic for your time and effort? And what should you do that is the most effective use of your time and effort? But now more than ever, there is no doubt that it can be done.
--
Andrew Marx is a long time writer on SmartReMarxcom and recently published a new work of fiction Accidents Happen. You can contact him on twitter or leave a comment below.
