Questions To Ask Before Selecting A Book Publishing Service?
The literary industry has seen a rapid growth of self book publishing services owing the authors who are now more than ever inclined towards self-publishing instead of going for the traditional publishing route. Still, many authors are confused about whether they should go for self-publishing and, if yes, should hire a self book publishing service to do the job. The answer is a YES! Book publishing services offer a number of benefits that you might not get if you publish a book yourself.
However, it’s quite easy if you are tech-savvy and have enough knowledge of self-publishing platforms. But not everyone has the time to sit on a computer for hours and design a book that meets the platform’s requirements. In this case, hiring a professional self book publishing service can be a great alternative. They have a professional team of experienced publishers well-versed with each platform’s publishing standards and requirements.
But that doesn’t mean that you should hire any book publishing company. Instead, do your homework first to avoid being a victim of a scam. Browse around various business reviewing sites to know whether the company you are considering hiring is worth it or not. Once you choose a company, you must also ask some important questions before signing a contract. So, without wasting any time, let’s find out what you need to ask:
Some Important Questions That You Must Ask Before Hiring A Self Book Publishing Service
With countless book publishing services available in the market, you need to choose the best among them. Some of them might give you false hope but don’t fall into the trap; always do your homework first about any company before signing a contract with them. Also, go through the website of the company you have chosen to get a better idea of what kind of services they provide.
So, here are a few questions you must ask before hiring a self book publishing service. First, it’s your right to inquire about anything you like and obtain the answers that you are comfortable with. So, let’s take a look at what questions you need to ask:
Do I still have exclusive rights to my book?
A book publishing service has no right to request the rights for your book. Instead, they either operate on an on-time fee or by charging a commission from book sales. So, never sign a contract asking for your book’s rights without giving it a second thought. The book you have written is all yours, and no one can request its rights in return for their services.
Can I end dismiss my publishing agreement?
A contractual agreement can result in a number of potential issues. So, never sign a publishing contract without reading its terms and conditions. Moreover, refrain from signing a publishing contract that cannot be terminated or demands rights for your book. But that doesn’t mean you can cancel a contract anytime without legitimate reasons.
What is the complete cost of publishing services?
This is pretty important when working with book publishing services. So, make sure that you obtain a detailed written agreement outlining all the services that will be provided throughout your contractual period. Moreover, keep in mind to ask about each service mentioned there. Ensure that all of those prices are fixed and won’t be hit with any recurring extra fees in the future.
What services are included within the publishing contract?
Will the publisher format and publish your book after editing, copyediting, or at the very least, proofreading it? Does a fee apply to these services? Or will you have to shoulder the cost of creating the final manuscript? Most book publishing companies sell these essential services and charge fixed amounts. So, consider asking this question, as it can significantly impact your wallet with extra expenses.
When will I start receiving payments from sales, and what will be my royalty rate?
Many book publishing companies are now charging royalties over book sales. They handle your book sales and deduct a specific percentage from your profits as their commission. So, be sure to ask this question.
However, if you don’t want to split your profits, you can find a company that only charges an upfront amount for their publishing services. They don’t have any regard for your book sales, and you receive your profits straight into your account.
Do you provide periodic sales reports?
You won’t likely have access to this data if your publisher maintains the store accounts used to sell your book. Therefore, you must rely on your publisher to give you proper sales statistics. These must be delivered to you at least once every three months.
Would you promote my book after publishing it?
Professional book publishing services have a sizable network to market your book. But in most cases, you have to buy their marketing services separately if you want to promote your book. This can be a very good decision if you lack the time and knowledge because they have experienced marketers capable of designing marketing campaigns that best fit your needs.
How long are you working in the publishing industry?
This is undoubtedly the most important question that you must ask your publisher. Hiring a company with extensive industry experience is recommended as they know how to make your book a literary success.
How many authors have you served recently?
Proven working experience is the only thing that you need to consider at this point if they have a sizable portfolio and have many titles published under their name on different self-publishing platforms.
Final Thoughts
There are many more questions that you can ask from a self book publishing service. It entirely depends on what you expect from a publisher and what services you want to avail of from them. But it is strictly recommended to browse for some credible service providers as there are many scammers waiting for you to rip you off your money. So, do your research, and make a decision you don’t regret in the future!
