Don't Fall For These Myths About Self Publishing

12 Lies About Self Publishing Not To Believe

Self-publishing is a legitimate, true and tested path of releasing a book but there are many misconceptions about this method. New writers especially are prone to believe inaccuracies and flat out lies about it. 

In this post, I’ll be debunking some of the most commonly told and believed mistruths about self publishing so that you don’t fall for them and understand a little more about releasing your own book. 

12 Common Myths of Self-Publishing

Myth #1: Self-publishing is easier, quicker, or cheaper than traditional publishing. 

In reality, self-publishing requires a lot of time, effort, and investment to produce a high-quality book that can compete in the market.

Myth #2: Self-published books are low quality or lack professionalism. 

This is not true as many self-published authors hire professional editors, designers, and marketers to ensure their books meet the industry standards and appeal to readers. (PS: Some outside the traditional publishing space call this hybrid publishing while others refer to this indiepreneurship.)

Myth #3: Self-published authors don’t need other professional help. 

As per my debunk of myth #2, this is a misconception. Many self-published authors work with others to make their book as high quality as possible. In addition to that, self-published authors still need to network, collaborate, and seek advice from experts, bloggers, reviewers and other writers to advance in their career.

Myth #4: If you can write, you can be a successful self-published author. 

Writing is only one aspect of self-publishing. Doing it well is not enough to guarantee success. Self-published authors also need to sharpen their entrepreneurial skills and marketing acumen to reach their target audience and sell their books.

Myth #5: Self-published books don’t need an editor

This is a very dangerous myth, as editing is essential for any book, regardless of the publishing method. Editing improves the quality, clarity, and credibility of a book, and helps avoid errors, inconsistencies, and negative reviews. Don’t get me wrong, even the most professionally edited book may have one or two errors but too many of them are a recipe for bad news.

Myth #6: A unique self-published book will sell itself. 

This is wishful thinking, as no book can sell itself without proper marketing and promotion. Self-published authors should ideally have a clear marketing strategy. It also helps to have a strong online presence with a loyal following to generate interest and sales for their books.

(Note: I said strong audience, not big! They are not always necessarily the same thing.)

Myth #7: An author’s website/blog and social media are not necessary or effective for self-publishing. 

This is false, as having an online platform is one of the first steps for building an author brand, connecting with readers, and creating visibility for the book. Self-published authors need to use various online tools and channels to reach their potential customers and grow their readership.

Myth #8: Reviews will come in automatically or are not important for self-publishing. 

Reviews are one of the most powerful ways to boost the book’s ranking, reputation, and revenue. Self-published authors need to actively seek reviews from readers, bloggers, influencers, and media outlets to increase their exposure and credibility. Sooner or later, I will share a post on how I got some of the biggest names in the Malawian writing space – Robert Chiwamba and Phindu Zaie Banda – to endorse my book and how that helped boost my sales.

Myth #9: Self-publishing is only for failed authors or those who can’t get traditionally published. 

Thankfully this is a dying stigma thanks to the likes of TikTok and social media where unknown authors are able to go from zeroes to buzzing names in bookish spaces. Self-publishing is a valid and viable option for authors who want to have more creative control, artistic freedom, and financial rewards from their work. Self-publishing is not a last resort, but a strategic choice.

Myth #10: Traditional publishing is the only path to success or recognition for authors. 

This is outdated and has always been untrue. Not only do very few traditionally published ever become household names, self-publishing has proven to be a lucrative way to achieve both artistic and commercial success. E.L. James of 50 Shades of Grey, anyone? Many self-published authors have reached bestseller lists, won prestigious awards, secured movie or TV deals, and gained international exposure. Who knows; maybe you could be one of them.

Myth #11:  Self-published books can’t get into bookstores or libraries. 

Admittedly, it used to be a lot more difficult. This is no longer the case as self-published books have more opportunities and options to get distributed in libraries and physical bookstores than ever before. They can also use various platforms and programs to get their books in libraries across the world.

Myth #12:  Self-published authors can’t benefit from book awards or other forms of recognition. 

This is incorrect! There are many book awards and contests that are open to self-published authors and books. Winning or being nominated for an award can boost the book’s visibility, credibility, and sales so I’ll be sure to make a post about awards that accept self-published works at some point in the future. Self-published authors can also seek other forms of recognition such as endorsements, testimonials, or features from reputable sources.

I hope this has been an illuminating post on common lies and half-truths told about self-publishing which you can stop believing! Are there any common myths I missed out? Do you have any questions about self-publishing? I’ll do my best to answer them if you pop them down in the comments.