Whether you're self-publishing your first book or 50th book, the process might seem daunting. But with Raab & Co, you'll get the attention you need to become an indy author rockstar. While it’s true that traditional publishing comes with a certain air of old-world legitimacy, this article shows you a new way, a better way, to own the entire process, reach more potential readers and boost net sales.

When it comes to publishing, the truth of the matter is that traditional book publishers can only publish so many books—and there are way, way more voices that have something important and worthy to say than there are slots at those publishing houses. If you've tried going down that road, we're sure you've been met with firewalls that make the publishing process seem impossible.Fortunately, thanks to the way self-publishing has exploded in the last decade, traditional publishing is no longer the only option. As technology has improved, book product quality has, too. Whether you're looking to have an ebook, print edition, or both, Raab & Co is the hybrid publisher you need to make it happen.

Our platform is author-centric, making self-publishing with us easy and beneficial. Our writing process allows you to retain creative control and our design team will make your print or ebook cover come to life.

So without further ado, let's jump into the benefits of self-publishing and making your dreams of becoming a successful independent author a reality.

First Things First, Your Self-Publishing Timeline

One of the biggest benefits of self-publishing with us is near-instant gratification. If you're in a hurry, let us know. We love a challenge. And if you've got a seminar, webinar, online course, or other event coming up, we'll move heaven and earth to make sure your book is in-hand and on time for your event. Having a book available to distribute at your event is an amazing marketing tool. It can position you as a thought leader in your space, generate leads, and so much more.

If you try to publish a book with a traditional publisher, you would typically submit a book proposal to an agent, then once you get an agent—could take a year, could be never!— they shop your proposal around hoping to create publishing options that work in their favor. Years later and many more gray hairs for you, there's still no book. Your market has changed. And the timeliness for your content has passed. And who needs that? Book publishing doesn't have to be that complicated, and with us, it isn't.

We love meeting with new authors and seasoned pros alike. Our initial discovery jam session will give you all the insights you need to see how your book will come to life. We'll make sure the right writer, designer, beta readers, assistant proofreader and professional editor are assigned to your project. With clear contact throughout the whole process, you'll know what to expect. And most importantly, when to expect it.

Your Book Cover Design Needs to Crush It

If an image says 1000 words, your custom book design needs to speak volumes. Our process is personalized, unlike the bulk templates used by Bookbaby, Upwork, or Fiverr “artists.” You may have been told that saving a lot of money in this way is a good idea. It isn’t. Your book needs to stand out on Amazon and other channels. With us, you can expect the very best.

There's no one better than our in-house team to give you the book cover design that you deserve. Our cross-functional teams work closely throughout the process, and you can count on a seamless fit between what's seen on the cover, the book description, and on the page.

So how does it all work? Our artists are vetted and proven so you never have to break a sweat. They use the latest design tools and will always keep you informed. Your notes are always welcome. In fact, they're essential to the process. Give us your input and we’ll do the rest. We’ll be your facilitator, your book cover butler, your conduit to design domination (and you can take all the credit). 

Your interior design is just as critical as what's found on the cover. Layout and formatting are an art. Typesetting with custom typography and illustrations will help build a rhythm and connection that will keep your readers turning the page and your narrative moving. Let's stop the press for a second (get it?). If you go the traditional publishing route, you've got almost zero say in how any of this comes together.

When you review a working draft, remember, we want you to be the key collaborator in all things authentic to you and your brand. So if you want to change certain background colors and type size, we're all ears. You can help create a readability experience that's as unique as your book.

A quick word about you as collaborator. We want Raab & Co to feel like your very own publishing company. We take great pride in working hand in hand with our clients. But that said, we cater to busy CEOs, and marketing departments, too. So if you need a done-for-you solution, we've got your back. You get to focus on your events, business, and greater marketing strategy. We'll make sure that your book feels like your input is all over it. From cover to cover and the good stuff in between.

A Bit More About Your Cover and Title

The biggest thing you'll want to take away from any self-publishing vs. traditional publisher comparison is the idea of control. When you hand off your book to the big guys (especially if you're a first-time author), expect to see your baby become something else. Their marketplace facilitator will point at focus groups and other data to justify why your color theme should be pink and not green and that your title should be this and not that.

Imagine losing control of your book's title and cover design! This is your book. We want you to have your say so that your successful book feels like it came from you. 

Looking for a little inspiration? Check out the cover we created for Dancing with Giants by presidentially appointed U.S. Treasury Secretary Mitchell A. Silk and Seth Tan. Whether hardback, kindle ebook, or Amazon KDP print on demand, or custom bulk printing, your cover and title need to stand out and stop your readers in their tracks.

Book Distribution, Kindle Direct Publishing, Apple Books & More

As we've said, the publishing world has changed. Our author platform gives you control and when it comes down to it, puts more money in your pocket. When it comes to book publication and distribution, the devil is in the details. Historically, the best distribution option got your print book into brick and mortar stores. Your best hope for promotion was a signing at your local bookstore or other targeted locations. Those signings cost a lot of money and need tons of press. And guess whose paycheck that money comes out of?

The traditional publishing model still owns some clout, but we are living in the twilight of that industry. Thankfully, writers have figured it out and technology offers a compelling solution.

But choose your author platform carefully! Popular services like Ingramspark, Bookbaby, Reedsy, KDP,  and Apple Books all have pros and cons you should look out for when it comes to online retail. You'll want to look at the fine print about royalties very carefully. If you need help, our team can help you determine the best path forward for your book launch and distribution. 

The Retail Price of Your Own Book. Fact & Fiction

While this one sounds simple, there is actually more to the price of your book than meets the eye, especially when it comes to the differences between traditional and self-publishing. A traditional publishing contract will involve an advance, which gets paid back to the publisher, before you get the breadcrumbs (I mean royalties) from your books sales.

Royalty rates vary based on the book format, but typically fall around 15% for hardcovers, between 5% and 10% for paperbacks and around 25% for e-books and audiobooks, all based on the retail price for which the book is sold. So if your book is published in paperback and sold for $14.95, you would make roughly $1.50 per book. That's about 10% in your pocket from old-school booksellers.

Let's talk about sales and the modern publishing world for a second. When all is said and done self-published authors typically earn up to 70% for each book sold. Looking at that same $14.95 paperback, that’s almost $10.50 per book, which is a substantial amount more.

Additionally, you can have control of the entire marketing campaign if you want to. You can take out Facebook ads, deploy automated email marketing, create engaging YouTube videos, and leverage other social media channels to maximize your ROI. Sure, you'll need to put in the legwork in terms of marketing and spreading the word about your book, but the spoils are all yours.

Raab & Co. The Hybrid Publisher That Makes It Happen

Writing a book can help you grow your business. That much is clear. But the chief benefit with self-publishing is control. Our team has been in the trenches for decades and after your first consult, you'll be convinced that our capabilities are just what you need. Let's get your amazing book idea out of your head and into the marketplace. Your readers deserve it. Your business goals will benefit from it. And frankly, so will your career in ways you can't predict!

Get in touch today!