Tranter Banter

How many times have I heard someone say “I should write a book!”  Often it’s said in jest with maybe an underlying hint of truth.  There are plenty of us with ideas in our head and the vague concept of putting it together as a book.  There are entrepreneurs with wonderful ideas who know a better way, have a better or bigger idea or a vision that stands out and needs to be shared with others. There are those life lessons that deeply changed us that need to be shared with others.  And there are those who have always just plain dreamed of writing a book.  There are groups of people hoping to write a cookbook, for example, as a fundraiser. To all of you I ask “What are you waiting for?”

I’m a self-published author.  I wrote the Ultimate Social Media Success Guide offered on www.amazon.com.  My husband is a published author who has written seven cookbooks under the Diner Wizard logo.  His books are both print and digital, so I know firsthand the process of self-publishing.  It can seem intimidating and out of reach to new authors, but utilizing the internet, it can be a fun and rewarding experience.

Authoring a book gives the perceived notion that you are a leading authority in your field.  Who better to go to with a problem than the guy or gal who wrote the book.  Often, as an author, you are the go-to person.  Imagine how fun it could be to pass out a book instead of a business card or to pass out your books at a speaking engagement or a Chamber of Commerce function.  We passed out books to family members we don’t often have the opportunity to see. 

As a self-published author, books are available within days as opposed to months. You set the sale price of your book and can realize higher profit or higher royalties (in the case of ebooks).  Likewise, if you want to lower the price of your book, or even offer it for free to get your name out there, you have that right. 

With the popularity of e-readers, digital books are now much easier to self-publish.   For little or no upfront money you can upload your book to amazon.com, Google books or any number of smaller companies. You can even edit and rewrite your book and resubmit it.

Your books can reach a wider audience.  Amazon.com offers the ability to publish your books in Europe, for example, at no extra charge.   

Just like anything, though, the first step is to get started.  Get started writing your book.  There really are no more excuses.

These are just a few things to get you started in the world of self-publishing.  As always, please let me know if I can answer any questions.  I sure welcome your comments.