As writers we know the most difficult part of becoming an author isn’t always the writing. We have so many decisions to make on how we will edit, format, create a cover for, and market our book, it can be overwhelming. Thankfully, in today’s publishing marketplace there are many helpful professionals ready to consult you on the entire process from A to Z—and even do the legwork along the way.

If you are in the Women in Publishing community (and more specifically have a ticket to the Women in Publishing Summit this March), you will have the opportunity to meet with the many publishers involved in the summit. Many of which will be providing special offers to our audience to help level up the publishing process! Isn’t that exciting?

5 Essential Tips for Choosing the Right Publisher to Launch Your Book

But before you dive right in, you should know a few things about what to look for when choosing the right publisher. Here are five things to look for when “publisher shopping” that should make the process more seamless: 

1. Author Relationships

Investigate how the publisher treats its authors. Look for testimonials or reach out to other authors who have worked with them. A good publisher should maintain positive and supportive relationships with their writers. A good publisher is championing the author and their book.

2. Editorial Support

A good publisher should also offer strong editorial guidance to help polish your manuscript. This includes developmental editing, copyediting, and proofreading. This can provide the author with a level of confidence and credibility they may not otherwise achieve if they go it alone.

3. Marketing and Promotion

 Effective marketing and promotion are crucial for a book’s success. Check what marketing strategies the publisher employs and how much support they provide in promoting your book. The less marketing the publisher does, the more that falls on the author’s shoulders. You want to get what you pay for.

4. Subsidiary Rights

Consider what subsidiary rights (like foreign language rights, film rights, audiobook rights, etc.) the publisher is interested in and how they handle them. This can open up additional revenue streams and broader exposure for your book.

5. Distribution Channels

And speaking of exposure, it’s best to ensure that the publisher has strong distribution channels to get your book into bookstores, online retailers, and libraries. Wider distribution means better visibility and sales.

Here are all the sponsors you will meet during the summit who specialize in publishing:

• Hybrid Global Publishing
• Your Book Is Your Hook
• Lulu
• PublishDrive
• Luminare Press
• Warren Publishing
• Bublish
• Old Mate Media
• Ingenium Books
• FriesenPress
• Ink Worthy Books
• GracePoint Publishing
• Phoenix Rising Publishing

Learn more about our sponsors here:

The Women in Publishing Summit is a four-day virtual event running from March 5 to 8. Since the sessions are recorded, you’ll be able to rewatch them as many times as you’d like throughout the year. The best part is that you get to be a part of the WIP community all year long with free bonus post-conference webinars, monthly networking sessions, and access to sponsor discounts.

Be sure to get your ticket today so you can start connecting with publishing companies, publishing professionals, and fellow writers right away!