New Post: Secrets to Self-Publishing- your guide to self-publishing eBooks and books in print

I finally got this out before Christmas!  I hope you all like it.  This eBook is 36 pages long and has around 17,000 words written all about how easy it is to become an independent author.  The book retails for £5.99 in most areas;  however, there will be certain places online where it will be discounted.  The format is eBook only.

In this eBook I bascially go through the steps, one by one, and explain how to self-publish eBooks as well as books in print.  I go throught the do’s and the don’ts as well as what worked for me and what didn’t work for me.

There is also a section on social media and how to sell your book through those platforms as well as how to market your book.  This eBook will give you hints and tips that many other publishers and/or authors do not share.  This eBook let’s it all hang out!

If you have any questions and/or help publishing your book just drop me a line on Twitter:  @jmcvalentine or email me.  I am also very happy to set up an appointment via skype.

The Social Web: Why social media is important for self-publishers

What is social media and why is it so darn important?  I guess if you are reading this you probably already know about social media because WordPress plays a huge part of that outlet.  But, if you know someone who would benefit from this article please reblog it or pass it on.

Social Media refers to the means of interactions among people in which they create, share, and/or exchange information and ideas in virtual communities and networks.  In other words social media is a place where you interact with people online.  You may know them or you may not know them, but it is a community that you create to communicate with others. 

Utilizing social media outlets is important because it will help you get your name out there.  It is imperative if you are self-publishing to create an online presence and this is the way to do it.

There are different types of social media outlets.  I think the most important right now that you the author should be using to market your eBooks or books in print are Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.  There are other types of social media outlets that you can use on your blog/website.
Other social media outlets include:

LinkedIn
YouTube
MySpace
Google+
Wordpress
Blogger
and, much, much more.

If you want to learn more about how social media can help you- or even if you need help setting it all up- please get in touch with me!

Thanks for reading!

Don’t get stuck in the mud: The importance of out sourcing an illustrator

“Going into business with a friend is a very tricky thing.”  states entrepreneur and author of ‘More to Life Than Shoes’, Nadia Finer.  And, I agree.  Going into business with a friend is not something that I suggest doing.  Going into business with a friend could get stickier than a sticky bun!  Even if the rules are clearly written out!

And, from what I am learning on this long journey of self-publishing is that even if a contract is put in place whether it be written or verbal when things get too personal the contract seems to be forgotten.  When did business relationships get so personal?

So, my advice to you as a self-publishing consultant is this:  if you are an author or a writer who wants to write a book or even someone with a blog who wants illustrations done it may be of your interest to outsource your illustrations.  If you outsource your illustrations it is clear on who owns the copyright.   In other words, pay someone to do the illustrations.  You can use university students, colleagues, professional illustrators, animators and if you’re desperate … a friend.  As long as you pay them for their services and keep it at that.  Illustrators charge different amounts depending on experience.  So, depending on your budget you may want to spend £50 or you may want to spend more.

One thing that I have learned along the way is that nothing surprises me.  I have learned that if there is a whiff of potential success or when money is involved even the sweetest of the sweetest persons could turn into a sassy, sour puss.

Take my advice.  If you want to write a book, pay someone to complete the cover (like I did in my ebook Get a Grip- How to change your life and take back control in 30 days or less) as well as if you are making a picture book.  If you want to complete the book cover on your own and utilise pictures from websites like Shutterstock ensure that they are royalty free.

If you need business advice or want to set up a meeting with a business consultant I would suggest doing that before jumping in a muddy puddle.

Need Business Advice?  Contact Nadia Finer, Business Development
http://www.moretolifethanshoes.com/
http://bizmess.co.uk/
BizMess is a blog about the bumpy side of business. It’s the ultimate source of practical advice, useful tips and insights from people who’ve been there and done that. The premise is that we messed up, so you don’t have to.  Check it out!