Hybrid Publishing or Self-Publishing

Getting your book in front of a traditional publisher is extremely tough for new authors. In fact, it’s challenging for most authors to have their books presented to a traditional publishing house. You need to be extremely lucky or catch the eye of a well-respected agent to achieve this goal. Authors are faced with a decision to self-publish or look for another way to publish. Enter the hybrid publisher. So, what is the difference between a hybrid model and self-publishing?

Hybrid Publishing Option

Hybrid publishing includes some aspects of the self-publishing and traditional model. Hybrid publishing companies will offer you a higher royalty than a traditional publisher will, but with this comes an upfront investment to pay for editing and design services. In some cases, this can also include some marketing services, but with both models, you are ultimately responsible for promoting your book. Because you will be paying money upfront, the hybrid publisher has less risk and therefore can pay more in royalties. If your book is selling well then you both will benefit. If your book does not sell well, they have less exposure.

Self-Publishing Option

When you self-publish, you are responsible for the upfront costs to put the book together and all the marketing and promotional services. This upfront investment can be worth it if you have a well-written book and a strong marketing plan. When your book sells you receive 100% of the royalties and own the imprint and book rights. You have control over the pricing of your book and where it is available for sale. You have no limitations on making your book available to any reseller, wholesaler, independent bookstore, physical bookstores and can try to sell the rights to international publishers.

Although it is easier to self-publish today, it is still extremely important to produce your best work. Unfortunately, there is still a book industry stigma that a self-published book is not the same quality as a traditional book. Strong writing, proper editing, and a professional cover and interior design will silence the critics.

You can self-publish with IngramSpark and KDP to have your book available to the entire world. With independence comes the responsibility of promoting your book. To do this, you need to have a marketing plan, and timeline that begins to look at these strategies during the writing phase continues throughout the self-publishing phase and beyond. In fact, you will be promoting your book for years to come.

The choice of hybrid versus self-publishing is yours and should be researched thoroughly. Never jump into any situation without carefully researching it, especially when it has to do with your creative work. Trust your gut, speak to industry people, look on industry organization websites and take your time evaluating what is best for you.