The era when print-on-demand was the primary option for self-published authors is over. Today, there are affordable book fulfillment services that provide printing options. One of the most profitable ways to sell books online is through your own website. When customers purchase directly from you, you retain 100% of the sales profits, significantly boosting your profit margins. However, it will require effort on your part to attract online traffic. You can also continue to utilize large online booksellers by taking advantage of their "marketplace" selling spaces instead of relying solely on on-demand publishing, which can benefit you. Multi-channel sales are the best way to increase your volume.
When collaborating with a graphic designer for your book cover, remember that many readers will see it as a small thumbnail online. Given that people browse on smartphones with smaller displays, creating a compelling image in various sizes can help you improve your chances of making a sale. Additionally, think about the algorithms determining which books are recommended to shoppers. These algorithms consider various elements, including the information you submit. You can enhance your visibility over time by fully utilizing book and author pages on major online bookselling platforms.
If you sell through your website or others' online marketplaces, linking your orders to a fulfillment service that can handle shipping is crucial. Customers have high expectations for shipping speed, and you want to surprise them pleasantly. The process of ordering a book online should be straightforward, with prompt delivery. Partnering with a reputable fulfillment service allows you to ship additional items alongside your books or add personal touches, such as gift cards and custom-branded packaging. It is essential for self-publishers looking to enhance their brand presence.
Today, authors have a variety of promotional avenues at their fingertips, including social media. Building a following before releasing your first book can be a powerful marketing tool. Engaging your audience with well-received posts plays a vital role in achieving success. It comes easily for some naturally outgoing individuals, while others may need to develop their style. It's important to tread carefully to find what resonates best without offending anyone, especially when it comes to sensitive subjects like politics or other controversial matters. The goal is to engage readers favorably.
As an author, your book project represents months of effort and dedication, and it's crucial to leverage the potential benefits of printing and book fulfillment for maximum profitability. While print-on-demand may seem appealing due to its convenience, it brings significant sacrifices. They include losing printing options (trim size, cover stock, binding types, etc.), lacking direct customer contact, and substantial profit sharing with the print-on-demand company. In a nutshell, you surrender control over various aspects of your book project. Missing the opportunity to collect customer data also affects the future.
In contrast, fulfillment companies that offer book printing services provide an excellent alternative, allowing you to sell your books through various channels, including your website, set prices, retain customer data, and capitalize on upselling opportunities. Printing companies with digital capabilities often accommodate lower initial print runs, thereby reducing inventory costs and increasing profit margins on sold copies with the added benefit of same-day shipping. Conversely, opting for on-demand may lead to customer delays if print queues are backed up, negatively impacting customer service.
Full-service printers offer flexibility in book size, paper quality, and binding options, catering to specific requirements such as photo books or unique binding preferences. The ability to create a high-quality final product not only impresses readers but also ensures that your book is suited for its intended usage, enhancing its overall appeal and marketability. While most books in today's market are printed in perfect bound (paperback) form, it's essential to consider alternative formats such as hardcover or specialty binding to make a lasting and unique branding statement in a competitive marketplace.
Selecting the optimal binding and trim size enhance the potential for success and profitability, especially regarding word-of-mouth promotions where positive customer experiences can lead to increased sales and broader recognition. In conclusion, authors should carefully evaluate all available printing options before deciding. The choice of printing method and fulfillment arrangement can significantly impact the success and profitability of a book, making thorough consideration an essential step in the self-publishing process. Print on demand may sound easy, but carefully weigh the sacrifices before your sign.
Creating a successful marketing strategy is crucial for authors who self-publish with the aim of making a profit. Decisions about publishing and promotion, such as choosing between book fulfillment and print on demand, finding an editor, and hiring a cover designer, significantly impact how your book is perceived in the market and how potential readers discover it. Competition is tough in most genres, so making well-planned decisions is essential. Trying to work at the last minute or allowing things to go unplanned late in the process can be drawbacks. Therefore, start early and work strategically.
At first glance, print-on-demand may seem like an ideal solution as it allows you to get your book into print and make it available for sale without shouldering much financial responsibility. While it may be suitable for some self-publishers looking to make a modest profit, it's essential to consider other options carefully if you envision your book as a source of income. Many print-on-demand services set the price for your book and pay you only a commission on each copy. If maintaining control of your business is important, conventional printing and working with a book fulfillment house could be a better fit.
Finding a book printer and fulfillment house gives you complete control over various aspects such as pricing, binding choice, trim sizes, cover enhancements, and more. Additionally, you have the flexibility to sell your book in brick-and-mortar stores, which may not be an option with print-on-demand services. Selling directly to customers provides you with their information for remarketing opportunities and future upselling. Selling your book through your website or eCommerce platform lets you keep the entire sale price, maximizing your profits.
Many authors and companies increasingly turn to direct-to-consumer sales to boost their margins. Moreover, having access to customer information is vital as it allows you to offer additional products or services and build lasting relationships. Ultimately, the decisions you make about publishing and marketing your book significantly impact its success in the marketplace. If you've put your heart and soul into writing and self-publishing a book, there is every reason to take the marketing and profit aspects seriously. Ultimately, no one regrets having financial success and being profitable.
