Writing is not a job. As with all creative endeavors that demand dedication and sacrifice for the craft, writing is more of a vocation. Writers have to overcome writer’s block, lack of creativity, isolation and lack of confidence, and even financial and health problems (that starving writer trope is there for a reason). Making it as a writer takes the right combination of talent, grit, opportunity, and a bit of luck.
While most writers succeed by taking the usual commercial publishing route, independent publishing has become more popular in recent years as it provides unique advantages. Independent publishers, in contrast to commercial publishers, are interested in something different. They make their own decisions based on quality rather than profit. They have complete control over all decisions and are not bound by any rules. They don’t publish what people think is popular; instead, they publish what they believe in.
For first-time authors, assistance with marketing and sales is critical. Independent publishers still allow authors to have flexibility and autonomy, and they have the added advantage of having someone (with vast knowledge) helping them through the entire process. Lastly, the wide acceptance of independent publishing is particularly critical for new and upcoming authors. Many publishing houses have a following or reputation, which means authors will have an advantage when their book is out.
Knowing the benefits stated above, it is no wonder that some writers take the natural trajectory from writing to publishing. The rise of “author-publishers” is not unsurprising as having been a writer means that, as publishers, they understand that they are the brand and their books are a product of that brand. They understand that book publishing is so much more than publishing a book, and are therefore empowered to leverage authorship to its highest potential, unconstrained by publishing houses.
In contrast to traditional publishing, creative ideas and targeted activities enable independent publishers to not only skip the opportunity queue, but also to lead the way and fully own their success stories because they are not required to wait in line. Collaboration has a big potential for authors and publishers, and it is a fundamental component of becoming visible to a larger market. They provide individuals with whom they interact not only exceptional writing, but also the opportunity to establish a large, engaged audience.
For this panel discussion, guest speakers will talk about their experiences from becoming a writer to publishing independently. Guest speakers include Edgar Samar, Palanca award-winning author of the Janus Silang books; and Katrina Olan, local bestselling indie author of Tablay.
“The Journey from Being a Writer to a Publisher” will be a recorded discussion and can be viewed via TIPC-PH’s Facebook Page and YouTube channel on Sunday, November 21, at 7:00 p.m.
Anyone interested to join the forum can read about the registration process here.
The Indie Publishers Collab - PH 