Why Your Publishing Strategy Matters Before You Write a Single Word
Did you know it’s essential to decide how you want to publish before writing your book? Whether you’re crafting a business book, self-help guide, memoir, or even fiction, understanding the big picture of your publishing goals can make or break your success. It’s all about starting with the end in mind.
Publishing Paths: What Are Your Options?
There are several ways to publish your book—independent, hybrid, small press, or traditional. Each option has its own standards, processes, and expectations. For instance, traditional publishing handles many aspects for you, such as editing, design, and distribution. But it’s also highly competitive, requiring polished manuscripts, unique stories, and a willingness to collaborate extensively. It can also take a long time.
On the other hand, independent and hybrid publishing allow more control but often require you to manage or outsource critical tasks like editing and cover design. No matter which path you choose, it all starts with having a completed manuscript that meets industry standards and audience expectations.
Why Your Publishing Choice Impacts Everything
One of the biggest reasons to determine your publishing path early is word count. Traditional publishers often require specific word counts—70,000 to 90,000 words for a memoir, for example. In contrast, independent or small-press publishers might accept manuscripts in the 50,000 to 70,000-word range. If you're indie publishing you're free to choose. Knowing these requirements upfront ensures your writing aligns with your publishing goals and reader expectation.
Don’t just write blindly. Your audience also plays a critical role. Are your readers discovering you in bookstores, or are they engaging with you online through podcasts and social media? If you’re a speaker, does your book enhance your message and establish your authority? The answers to these questions influence everything from your book’s structure to its marketing strategy.
Ready to Write Your Book?
Once you’ve chosen your publishing path, you’ll have clarity on:
Word count requirements.
Daily or weekly writing goals.
Audience expectations and marketing strategies.
This clarity ensures you’re writing with purpose and efficiency. You won’t be stuck in a loop of rewrites or delays because you’ve already planned for the end game.
Publishing: The Final Ingredient
Publishing is the culmination of your efforts, but it’s not an afterthought. By understanding how you’ll publish, you set yourself apart from the start. You save time, avoid unnecessary frustration, and position yourself for success in your field
I work with my clients to help them develop the foundation of their book and determine the right publishing path. Writing a book can be as fast as 90 days when you have the right strategy and support. Together, we tackle the challenges of writing, publishing, and marketing to ensure your book elevates your brand and speaks directly to your audience.
Need help figuring out how you plan to publish? Talk to someone like me - a book expert. I have a free GET YOUR BOOK DONE SESSION. Simply click below to pick a time that works for you.
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