1. Choosing a Self-Publishing Services Provider Jeremy Thompson Managing Director, Troubador Publishing Ltd

2. The most important part of self-publishing is… SELF

3. Aims and aspirations Start of a career as a writer? Publishing for pleasure? As part of a business venture? Recording a life? Local or specialist book with limited market? Book or ebook, or both?

4. Routes to publication (and marketing, and distribution) Do-It-Yourself (book and/or ebook) Pick-and-choose self-publishing Assisted self-publishing Pre-packaged or bespoke? Ebook: single or multi-retailer option? Book: print ‘on demand’ or sale or return? Marketing: ‘advice’, hands-on or expert assistance?

5. Research, research, research DIY Solutions You get out what you put in Limited distribution options Cheap entry costs Assisted Publishing Advice and expertise More options More costly Ebook only No cost Limited distribution Can be technically challenging! Consider why you are publishing Look at what routes to publishing are available Weigh the pros and cons of each option available Compare service providers Talk to other authors!

6. Dos and Don’ts…

7. Common Author Errors

8. Lack of research A bull in a china shop “I assumed that…” The author knows best… Quality Timing Marketing …

9. Best practice Consider your aims and options carefully Learn from others’ experiences Research the market for publishers Consider marketing and selling options early Play to your own strengths Understand what you are getting for your money Only invest what you can afford to lose Enjoy the experience!

10. Choosing a Self-Publishing Services Provider Jeremy Thompson Managing Director, Troubador Publishing Ltd