Only 1 download last month!
Lesson #9: Expand the distribution options by offering a print version.
It took quite some time, but I managed to format my book so it was accepted to the Smashwords Premium Catalogue. Once it was ready to go, the dashboard has some marketing tools for authors. When you go into the Channel Manager, you can opt into a number of expanded distribution options, such as:
Barnes & Noble
Kobo
Apple
Inktera
Baker & Taylor
Overdrive
Unfortunately, because I opted into Amazon’s KDP Select, I have to wait for the exclusivity agreement to expire before I can release my book on other channels. That was a good lesson... I am not convinced that KDP Select was the right choice because it limits what I can do on other sites. That being said, I could upload and prepare my book for pre-release, and I just selected the release date to be the day the KDP Select period ends.
In addition, I used Createspace to make my book available in print format. That site works with Amazon, so once your book has been reviewed for appropriate formatting, it will be made available alongside your Amazon e-book. There are still many readers who prefer a physical book to an e-book. I am hoping that once I have approved my print copy (I am reviewing my first draft today), then I might see some additional purchases.
The great part of this decision, was that there is no exclusivity agreement on print books under the KDP Select option. That means, I can offer the print copy anywhere, even while I am still under the KDP Select agreement.
Once my book is ready, you can select your sales channels on Createspace, as well.
On a side note, I also read a few forums where people discuss the benefits and drawbacks of Createspace vs. Amazon for printing physical copies. The general consensus leaned towards Createspace as the better option.... at least until Amazon improves its processes.
Lastly, once my print book is available, I will offer a few free copies on Goodreads as part of a free book promotion. Hopefully this will generate some interest in the long term. We’ll see how it goes!
I hope that information is helpful for those getting started. Don’t hesitate to send me a message if you have a question about how this works.
HERE IS MY LATEST PROMOTIONAL GIF FOR MY PRINT COPY:
