Alright, let’s get into it—common mistakes to avoid when publishing your book. Look, self-publishing is an incredible opportunity, but it’s also easy to trip over a few things that can make the process more stressful—or worse, less successful—than it needs to be. So, let’s talk about the most common pitfalls and how you can steer clear of them.
First up, rushing the process. I get it—you’ve poured your heart and soul into writing this book, and you’re dying to get it out there. But here’s the thing: publishing too quickly, without giving proper attention to editing, cover design, or formatting, is like baking a cake and forgetting the frosting. The book might still be good, but it’s not going to impress anyone. Take the time to polish every detail. That means hiring an editor, investing in a professional cover, and making sure the interior layout looks clean and readable.
Speaking of covers, mistake number two is a big one: DIY covers. Unless you’re a professional designer, don’t try to make your own. I know this might sound harsh, but readers do judge a book by its cover. A poorly designed cover screams “amateur” and will turn readers away before they even read the blurb. It’s worth every penny to hire someone who knows how to create a cover that fits your genre and grabs attention.
Now, let’s talk about pricing. This is where a lot of self-published authors trip up. Pricing your book too high, especially when you’re just starting out, is risky. Readers don’t know you yet, so they’re less likely to take a chance on a $9.99 eBook. On the flip side, pricing it too low—like 99 cents—can undervalue your work if you’re not strategic about it. Research your genre, see what similar books are priced at, and find that sweet spot.
Another common mistake? Ignoring your book’s metadata. Metadata is just a fancy word for all the behind-the-scenes details about your book—things like your title, subtitle, keywords, and categories. These aren’t just filler; they’re how readers find your book online. Choosing the wrong categories or neglecting keywords means your book could get lost in the digital shuffle. Spend time on this step and think like your ideal reader—what would they search for?
Marketing is another area where self-published authors often stumble. A lot of people think, “If I publish it, they will come.” Spoiler alert: they won’t. At least not without some help. You need to actively promote your book, whether that’s through an email list, social media, Amazon ads, or even good old-fashioned word of mouth. Start building your audience before you hit publish, so you have people ready to buy when launch day comes.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the importance of reviews. A lot of authors are afraid to ask for them, but reviews are crucial for building credibility and visibility. Don’t just hope they’ll roll in—be proactive. Reach out to your launch team, your early readers, or even bloggers who review books in your genre. A handful of solid reviews can make a huge difference.
So, let’s recap: don’t rush the process, invest in a professional cover, price your book strategically, nail your metadata, market early and often, and actively seek out reviews. These are all things that can take your book from “just another self-published title” to something that stands out. Avoid these common mistakes, and you’ll be setting yourself up for a much smoother and more successful publishing journey. You’ve got this!