Things I Learned Through Self Publishing
I self-published through createspace and, though the process was great, I made a lot of mistakes on my first novel(s). Here is a list to help new self-publishers so that they don't do the same.
1. Read- No, I'm not suggesting that you write like your favorite author, but by reading you will learn how to write better. You will understand plot points and see how others deal with the same problems you have in your manuscript.
2. Write- Make sure that you write as often as you can, even if it isn't good writing. The only way to learn to be better is to practice. Start writing short stories or write rough drafts of your novel, then go back and rewrite it over and over until it's right.
3. Learn- The only way to grow is to learn from others who have gone through the same things as you. Join as many writer groups as you can. They will teach you what you need to know as well as help you when times are tough.
4. Edit- Writing is more than just telling a story. You also have to make sure that it reads well. I wrote (what I thought were) intriguing storylines, but when I published I soon found out that no matter how good the story you have to make it readable. I am a storyteller, not a writer. That is something I had to learn.
5. Take Your Time- I know that you are excited to get your manuscript out there, but don’t rush it. Make sure that it's perfect before you publish. Once it's published you can't fully take it offline and you don't want people buying your bad work.
6. Build A Following- Before you publish your work make a Facebook account for your author name and begin to draw attention. Write about something that is related to your books. For instance, I write fantasy with a spiritual twist so I post fantasy and religious pictures and write short stories. Find your niche and connect with people that are like minded to you that will read your book.
7. Lower Your Expectations- No you are not going to become rich being a writer so if that is your goal then walk away now. You need to love what you do enough that even when you fail you don’t give up.
8. Publish- Get a good cover design, and blurb (by getting help from writer’s groups) and push that button.
9. Advertise- Put a certain amount of money aside for advertising and use it. Yes it is worth the cost.
10. Start all over again- This doesn’t mean to give up on your first book. Keep advertising and selling your work, but begin writing your next novel.
Remember that a writer never gives up. You are always, writing, building, learning, and selling. Don’t expect immediate success and when things get rough talk with other writers. Good luck!