20 things to do before self-publishing

1) Define your dream. What do you want to do and how will you achieve it? What is your personal definition of success?

2) Examine your book with an open mind and critical eyes. What are its strengths, limitations and potential?

3) Understand who your reading market is and what they need from your book.

4) List your Resources (money, knowledge, equipment, etc), Abilities (what you know and who you are), and Limitations (time, money, knowledge, etc). How will you eat them?

5) Find people who can help you. No one can do it all. (book designer, editor, proofreader, bookkeeper, CPA, etc.)

6) Study the process of creating and publishing a book! The more you know, the more effective it will be and the better your book will sell.

7) Join a Publishing Association, such as the Independent Book Publishers Association or the Small Publishers Association of America. Membership can get you discounts on printing and marketing, as well as expert support.

8) Make a budget for your business (not just the book). How much can you realistically spend and still make a profit?

9) Choose a name for your company that reflects the image you want to convey.

10) Register your domain name to secure your place on the Internet.

11) Buy your ISBNs. A block of ten will save you money in the long run.

12) Decide the structure of your business: Sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation?

13) Present the documentation: Commercial License, Resale License, DBA, etc…

14) Open a business checking account. Keep your business and personal money separate!

15) Create a Logo for your business.

16) Make a Marketing Plan for your book, including a budget.

17) Explore printing options (digital or offset?)

18) Get your book professionally edited!

19) Find a designer who makes books. Book design, including cover design, is different from other types of design.

20) Keep meticulous records of all your start-up expenses to make life easier at tax time.