Today’s topic: How to Avoid Publishing Scams
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Notes from this episode:
The publishing industry can be a perilous place for new authors.
Many writers have questions about offers they’re receiving through phone calls, emails, or messages.
They’re wondering if these offers are from legitimate companies and if they should consider signing up for them. One common scenario is receiving a phone call where someone offers you a publishing or marketing package for a fee. These offers may also come through email, LinkedIn, or Facebook messages. When encountering such offers, there are three things you should consider:1.
1. If It Sounds Too Good To Be True, it Probably Is
These fake publishing houses are skilled at using persuasive copywriting to appeal to your emotions and desires as a writer. They flatter you with flowery words and promise that your book will be published quickly and become a bestseller. They also offer to give you a ton of press…which doesn’t translate into book sales because they are vanity press.
They make promises that often leave you feeling disappointed because the results don’t match your expectations. I rarely recommend spending thousands of dollars on marketing or publishing packages, especially if you’re just starting out.
Remember, legitimate publishers are made of real people who run your book through a stringent editorial process. These traditional publishers may also ask you to do a series for revisions to get the best out of your book.
At Christian Book Academy, we can help you publish your book at an affordable price without breaking the bank.
2. Read the Fine Print
Many authors have come to us after paying exorbitant fees to their predatory publishers, only to discover they have to split royalties or face legal issues due to the dubious contracts they signed.
One author signed a contract that gave the publishing company copyright ownership of her artwork, preventing her from self-publishing. If you’re investing a significant amount, consider hiring a lawyer to review the contract and identify any red flags.
3. Know Your Options
Don’t let yourself be pressured by a publisher into making a quick decision to secure a bonus or discount. Take the time to research and evaluate different companies or services.
Just as my mom experienced when choosing a moving company, rushing into decisions can lead to regret. Avoid falling for false urgency tactics and instead, make an informed choice that aligns with your goals. It’s crucial to navigate these offers wisely to avoid both scammers and unnecessary expenses.
Exercise caution when presented with publishing or marketing offers and seek to verify the legitimacy of a publisher. It highlights the need to be aware of potential scams, read contracts thoroughly, and take the time to explore all available options. Stay informed, seek guidance, and don’t let publishing scams hinder your calling as a Kingdom writer.
4. Download Your Publishing Map
If you want to write and publish a book but don’t know where to start, this Publishing Map is for you. You will learn Shelley’s 9 simple steps inside her publishing map that will help you gain clarity on your next steps as a self-published writer and author. Download it now for free here.
5. Join Our Procrastination to Publication Workshop
With our simple 5-step system, you’ll be able to self-publish a quality Kindle eBook (without breaking the bank) in as little as 30 days. Here are a few of the topics we’ll cover:
- The 5-step method for editing, formatting, and designing a book cover so you can publish your Kindle eBook in as little as 30 days.
- My go-to process for self-editing your manuscript (that writers rave about)
- The formula I’ve used to easily price my books
- The tools you can use to format your book (and who you can hire to do it for you)
- The 5-minute hack to instantly know if your book cover will stop the scroll
Get started now here. Have Comments or Questions? Share them in the comments below.
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