Marketing Course – Print on Demand for Self-Published Authors: A Step-by-Step Guide

Once you’ve decided to publish a print book, you need to properly format your manuscript. Unlike eBooks, where text can be resized dynamically, print books require fixed layouts to ensure they look professional. This module covers the essential steps and tools to prepare your manuscript for Print on Demand (POD) platforms.

Your book’s cover is often the first impression readers will have of your work, and it plays a crucial role in attracting attention and boosting sales. While designing a print cover shares some similarities with eBook covers, there are unique considerations for print that you need to understand to ensure a professional result. This module walks you through the process of designing an eye-catching and print-ready cover.

Choosing the right Print on Demand (POD) platform is a critical decision for self-published authors. The platform you choose will affect the distribution, pricing, royalties, and the overall quality of your printed book. This module compares some of the leading POD platforms—Amazon KDP Print, IngramSpark, Lulu, and Blurb: to help you decide which one is best for your needs.

Publishing your book through Print on Demand (POD) is an exciting milestone, but the process involves multiple important steps to ensure your manuscript is properly formatted, uploaded, and reviewed before it goes live. This module provides step-by-step guides for KDP Print and IngramSpark, explains the importance of ISBNs, and walks you through the process of reviewing your proof copies to ensure everything is perfect.

Setting the right price for your print book and creating a smart distribution strategy is key to maximizing your profits and reaching your target audience. This module covers pricing techniques, explains expanded distribution versus direct sales, and dives into wholesale discounts and returns policies. It also provides insights into setting up bulk orders for events.

Successfully marketing and selling your print book is essential for reaching your target audience and maximizing your profits. This module covers various strategies for promoting your book on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other retail platforms, as well as methods for direct sales through your website, social media, and running ads. We’ll also discuss how to leverage book signings and speaking engagements to increase sales and visibility.

Once your print-on-demand (POD) business is up and running, scaling it to reach a wider audience and increase profitability becomes the next natural step. This module covers strategies for expanding your product offerings, utilizing crowdfunding, creating bundles and box sets, and outsourcing tasks to free up your time and grow your business.