Contrary to the popular belief among new authors, self publishing isn't hard to break in to. A lot of self publishing firms offer cover design, proofreading, editing services that goes along with the package you may opt thus making it easier for you. And since self-publishing is an evolving industry with lots of competitors, publishers are continually upgrading their facilities, offering higher quality services, and affordable pricing at your convenience.

2. Have an apparent goal for the book.

Know your objective for writing a book. Is your goal is to simply have a book to give to family and friends or you are serious about your career and have your mind set on a commercial venture with bigger ambition? In that case, quality design work, a comprehensive edit, distribution and a promotional plan are essential. This will help you to decide which service to go with when choosing self publishing company to publish your book.

3. Quality is better.

Today, the quality of self published books is getting pretty solid. Gone are the days of poorly printed books with mediocre edits, which can hinder a powerful message and a potentially successful book.

4. Distinctive title is essential.

Basically, you want to get the maximum SEO for your title when marketing it online, so if and when someone's really looking to buy it they'll find the link for your book and not an older one with the same title.

5. Design a great-looking book cover.

With Amazon becoming a leading bookseller, your book has to be noticeable as a thumbnail image online since that's how a good number of people are going to come across it. If you're mainly selling through Amazon, think small and work your way up.

6. Learn to negotiate.

Self publishing firms frequently offer special deals on their various packages and services. It doesn't harm to ask for free copies of your book and don't hesitate to inquire about deals that have officially expired. Don't forget these companies have quotas and they are more likely to give in to your wishes. In sales, everything is negotiable.

7. Ask questions.

You can get through to your sales or customer service representative with the company you choose so make use of it. Don't be afraid to ask anything.

8. Getting your book in bookstores.

Your best option as a new writer is to ask local, independent book sellers to sell your book. List down independent bookstores around your area, and give them a visit. Even then, don't have high expectation that bookstores will automatically want to promote your book purely because it has been published. The initial contact is important, dress nice to make an impression, and at all times be modest as a self promoter.

9. Marketing and publicity.

Your success as an author who is self publishing a book depends on your commitment to and involvement in publicity and marketing efforts. Try to secure to as many book signings in your local bookstores and book fairs as possible. Using professionally designed posters, postcards and bookmarks can help make for a very successful event. They can draw people's attention effectively at these events.

10. Self publishing firms are established.

Self publishing companies has been in business for quite sometime now and are continually changing for the better offering high-quality services for new authors like you.

© 2010 Bookpal Australia Pty Ltd - All Rights Reserved Worldwide

http://www.bookpal.com.au is helping self publishers all around the world to successfully self publish and market their books with cost effective solutions to create bestsellers. The website offers a free book for budding self publishers, and many other free resources. To find out more about how the Bookpal team can help you get your ideas into print, click here for your obligation free self-publishing consultation.

Terence Tam is the founder of Bookpal, he previously spent 6 years as an academic and was a contributing author for several academic books. Frustrated with the level of service he was getting with traditional publishers, he set up his own self publishing company to help other authors publish and market books with cost effective yet efficient solutions.