Hybrid publishing has become an increasingly popular option for authors who want more control over their book while also receiving professional support and guidance. If you're considering hybrid publishing your book, here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
This is not an exhaustive list but it gives you the main steps that you will need to follow to get your book published by a hybrid publisher.
Step 1: Write Your Book The first step to hybrid publishing (or any other form of publishing!) your book is, of course, to write it. Make sure you've spent enough time on revisions and edits to ensure your book is as polished as possible. Although the submission process for a hybrid publisher may not be as arduous as for that of a traditional publisher, any hybrid publisher worth their sort will still have high standards in order to maintain the professional integrity of the brand. You may well need further editing before publication but it is always advisable to present your book in the best possible light in those initial stages.
Step 2: Decide on Your Budget One of the key differences between traditional publishing and hybrid publishing is that authors will need to cover some of the costs themselves. Decide on your budget for editorial services, cover design, and marketing, and be prepared to invest in your book. There can be a huge variation in the costs involved and there are still some sharks out there sadly, so do your research and where possible read reviews from previous authors.
Step 3: Research Hybrid Publishers Not all hybrid publishers are created equal, so it's important to do your research to find a reputable publisher that aligns with your goals and values. Look for publishers that have a good track record and that offer the services you need. A good hybrid publisher should be prepared to discuss your goals with you in order to make sure that you will be a good partnership moving forward.
Step 4: Submit Your Manuscript Once you've found a hybrid publisher you want to work with, submit your manuscript for consideration. Be sure to follow their submission guidelines carefully and include any relevant information, such as your marketing plan and target audience.
Step 5: Negotiate Your Contract If your manuscript is accepted, you'll need to negotiate a contract with the publisher. This will outline the terms of your agreement, including the services the publisher will provide and the royalties you'll receive. Contracts will vary greatly from publisher to publisher - some will take royalties moving forward, some will not. Some contracts may include additional services such as editing or proofreading. You should maintain a good level of control over your manuscript although as stated previously, be prepared to meet quality control benchmarks. make sure that you are fully aware of all costs involved before you proceed - reputable hybrid publishers should be transparent about costs and terms, if they are not then this could be huge red flag!
Step 6: Work with an Editor Depending on your agreement with the publisher and the condition of your manuscript, you may need to work with an editor to refine your work - again this should be clear and agreed before you start working together.
Step 7: Design Your Cover Your book cover is an important marketing tool, so it's important to work with a professional designer to create a cover that will attract readers. You may already have a cover or you may work with your publisher or hire a designer yourself to create a cover that accurately represents your book. If you have written a children's book or a book that needs illustrations you may need to source that separately too unless the publisher has any illustrators within their team. This will likely be an extra cost to factor in to your budget.
Step 8: Market Your Book One of the benefits of hybrid publishing is that you still have control over your book's marketing. Whether you publish traditionally, self-publish, or hybrid publish, the marketing of your book will largely be your responsibility. The hybrid publishing house may offer marketing packages or advice on creating a strategy but ultimately it will be up to you to promote your book. The level of support offered may also depend on the terms of your contract and whether the publishing company will be taking royalties from sales although from experience, royalties do not equal marketing!
Step 9: Approve the Final Product Before your book goes to print, you'll have the opportunity to review and approve the final product by looking at a proof copy. Make sure everything looks good and that you're happy with the final product before giving the go-ahead to print.
Step 10: Publish Your Book Once your book is printed and available for purchase, it's time to celebrate! Don't forget to continue promoting your book and engaging with your readers to help build momentum. Hybrid publishing can be a great option for authors who want more control over their book without sacrificing professional support and guidance.
Publishing with Mabel and Stanley means you only pay for our services to get your book published - once your book is live it's all yours! We don't take any royalties from sales. We do feature all of our authors on our website hall of fame and love to tell the world about what an amazing bunch you are!
If you would like to talk about your book project please get in touch and we'd love to help you... email - mabelandstanley@outlook.com
www.mabelandstanleypublishing.com
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