For those new to self-publishing, knowing the right steps to take before releasing a book can be daunting. In addition to creating and workshopping an exceptional manuscript, authors must come up with original titles, create compelling back cover copy, hire professional editors, cover artists, and formatters, make decisions about which publication outlets to use, develop social media followings, and create platforms for themselves. Many authors choose to skip some of these steps due to inexperience, an attempt to avoid costs, or a desire to rush their books to publication.
But not having a book that has been properly workshopped, edited, designed, and/or formatted can be risky. The result is often weak sales, eventually forcing the author to rework the book or its packaging, which is an expensive proposition. And most PR experts won’t consider representing a book unless the author has developed a platform, and the book is well-written and has been professionally edited, and designed.
In this workshop, book publicist Paula Margulies provides authors with helpful tips so they can make sure their books are ready to release and promote. She discusses some of the most important aspects to consider when preparing a book for publication, including: making sure your manuscript is fully developed, coming up with a good title, finding a good editor, hiring a professional graphic designer to create a compelling book cover, developing back cover copy that sells, finding beta readers and reviewers, locating the right person to format and upload your books, developing your platform, building your social media following, obtaining pre-release book reviews, entering the right contests, and considering the best timing for launch and promotion.
Staffed by Paula Margulies
Paula Margulies is the owner of Paula Margulies Communications, a public relations firm for authors and artists. A graduate of the University of California, Santa Barbara, where she earned her master’s degree in Language Arts and Literature, Paula also holds degrees in marketing communications and education. She specializes in all aspects of marketing and publicity, including writing press releases and creating media kits, setting up speaking and reading appearances, conducting blog tours, garnering book reviews, and setting up print, radio, and television interviews. Paula is also the author of award-winning novels, short stories, and essays, so she understands the business of writing firsthand. Her latest release is The Tao of Book Publicity: A Beginner’s Guide to Book Promotion.