When you decide to self-publish a book, two of the most critical choices you’ll face involve pricing and distribution—key factors that make book fulfillment services and full-service printers appealing options. Setting your book prices and selling across various retail channels is vital for success. It’s important to highlight this because many self-publishers tend to focus solely on print-on-demand services, often overlooking other options. While on-demand printing can alleviate responsibilities, it can also come with a higher cost, which may restrict your pricing strategy and distribution methods.
In today’s market, hybrid models that blend online sales with in-store presence are becoming increasingly relevant. This approach, commonly called “omnichannel” retailing, involves selling your book wherever your potential customers are. Much like targeting readers effectively, providing them with multiple purchasing options is essential. If your competitors adopt this method while you limit your retail avenues, you could inadvertently decrease your sales. Choosing print-on-demand often confines you to a single selling platform, whereas independent printing allows you to sell your book anywhere.
Planning is beneficial and can enhance your success, but it’s equally important to retain the freedom to adapt to shifting book-buying trends. Since many readers make spontaneous purchases, connecting with them in the right locations is crucial. It underscores the importance of having an engaging title, a clear and descriptive subtitle (especially for nonfiction), and a distinctive yet comprehensible cover design. Books are, after all, products; you need a compelling package that speaks to your target audience. Getting these elements right can significantly boost your sales as they appeal to the right readers.
Some self-publishing authors work with book distributors and dedicated sales teams that actively promote titles to specific retailers, including high-traffic bookstores. Securing placement in these retail locations can lead to substantial sales volumes. As reorders come in, you’ll notice a steady increase in sales, which can dramatically enhance your book’s overall performance. If you plan to write a follow-up book, the effectiveness of your first one becomes even more critical. Good sales figures create a foundation for future success and increase the likelihood that the retailers will carry your next title.