One of the most profound changes the internet has helped to bring is the ability to self-publish. It was not long ago that writing a book required getting support from a publisher and the expenditure of thousands of dollars. Today, people around the world publish novels, reports, and other works for a fraction of the cost.

 

However, despite all the advantages associated with self-publishing, there are still several pitfalls that will sabotage your success. Avoiding them will increase your chances of having a successful publication. On a related note, Kate Harvie recently wrote a great post on how to know when your book is ready for publication.

Warning: The following comes after you wrote a compelling and well developed story that has been professionally edited, and not before.  So, here are five common pitfalls that you should avoid if you want to see your work sell.

 

[tweet_box design=”default” float=”none”]“The good news about self publishing is you get to do everything yourself. The bad news about self publishing is you get to do everything yourself.” Lori Lesko[/tweet_box]

 
 

Interesting Title

 

The title has two jobs: it should be interesting enough to catch people’s attention and fit per the general topic of your book. It helps if it uses keywords that readers can search for when finding titles of subjects that your book mirrors. But that’s more for non-fiction. Your title helps market your book, so be sure that it fits the subject, and is interesting enough to garner a closer look.

 

Bad Cover Design 

 

Despite the old saying, many people do judge whether they are going to purchase a book by its cover. You will need to have a good, professional, and interesting cover to help sell your book. It should be a cover that appears professionally designed, uses the right color palettes, and has typography that catches the eye. Plus, it should be attractive both in small and large sizes so that it can sell whether seen on the screens of computers or mobile devices.

 

Poor Author’s Photo or Bio 

 

You may not consider your photo or short biography to be interesting enough to put on your book. Your readers will appreciate to know you a little more. Your bio should be one that establishes you as an authority, even if this is your first book. Plus, your photo should be professional. Do not go for a goofy or complex photo, but rather a simple, straightforward image that conveys your work.

 

Poor Description 

 

Your book description needs to be clear and concise if you want to really hook the person into reading your work. It pays to use the services of a copy editor who can write a catching, powerful description that can pull people into your work. Writing a great pitch isn’t always easy, so it may be worth having an outside view on your work do it. In addition, having testimonials that speak to the quality and interest of your work helps substantially when it comes to sales.

 
 

Making Your Book Difficult to Read

 

Digital printing can help you save money by creating a book that has fewer pages. But, if you print your novel on letter-size pages with tight lines and small margins, it will be very hard to read. You are far better off spending more money and getting enough pages so that your book is easy to read.

 

[tweet_box design=”default” float=”none”]“Anyone who says it’s easy to self-publish a book is either lying or doing a shitty job.” Nan McCarthy[/tweet_box]

 

 

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By avoiding these five pitfalls, you can boost the sales potential of your book and create opportunities for future success with sequels or new works. Don’t take shortcuts! It will be detrimental to your work.