Just Finished Your Manuscript and Not Sure What's Next? Read This Quick Guide
If you’re thinking about publishing your book, you’ve reached a momentous milestone. I know it might not feel like it just yet, but you’ve already made significant progress, even if you’re still in the planning stage. But if you're like most new authors, the joy of realizing you have something to publish quickly gives way to an overwhelming question: what’s next?
My name is Michael Pietrobon, and for over a decade, I’ve guided authors through the publishing process. As the founder of Foglio Custom Book Specialists—Toronto's #1 self-publishing service—I have supported many authors in turning their manuscripts into polished books they're proud to publish.
Understanding your options clearly simplifies the publishing process immensely. At Foglio, we've developed a comprehensive 4-Stage Path to Publishing Success to guide new authors step-by-step.
How Do First-Time Authors Get Published?
First-time authors generally have two main pathways: traditional publishing or self-publishing. Traditional publishing involves partnering with established book publishers, often requiring literary agents and facing highly competitive selection processes.
Self-publishing, however, provides authors complete control over the publishing process. According to Bowker, self-published titles have surged in popularity, growing significantly over recent years, which demonstrates the accessibility and appeal of self-publishing.
What is Self-Publishing?
Self-publishing involves independently managing every aspect of your book's production, including editing, design, printing, distribution, and marketing. Authors retain full rights and royalties. Platforms like Amazon KDP and IngramSpark have simplified the publishing process, making it more accessible for new authors.
Still, self-publishing requires careful planning and professional expertise to ensure success. Research from Reedsy indicates that professionally edited and designed books consistently achieve higher sales and more positive reader reviews.
Essential Steps for Publishing Success
Stage 1: Preliminary Steps & Planning
Begin by clarifying your goals and audience. Knowing your target market, budget, and desired outcomes can significantly streamline your publishing process. At Foglio, we provide comprehensive planning support, helping you clearly define your vision.
Explore our book printing terms to familiarize yourself with essential publishing terminology.
Stage 2: Manuscript Editing & Revisions
Professional editing transforms your manuscript from good to great. Books that undergo professional editing receive significantly better reader feedback. Foglio offers expert editing services including developmental editing, line editing, and proofreading, ensuring your manuscript resonates clearly with your audience.
Stage 3: Cover Design, Typesetting & Ebook Creation
Your book’s appearance greatly influences readers’ buying decisions. Professional cover design significantly boosts your book's appeal. At Foglio, our cover designers create visually compelling covers tailored to your book's genre and target audience.
Similarly, professional interior formatting ensures readability. Our detailed typesetting and formatting services and expert ebook validation provide you with professional-quality finished products.
Stage 4: Marketing & Distribution
Effective marketing and distribution strategies ensure your book reaches your intended audience. Foglio helps authors strategically select platforms like Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, and others, optimizing metadata, pricing, and promotional strategies.
A robust marketing plan significantly impacts book visibility. Kindlepreneur emphasizes that well-marketed books substantially outperform those without strategic promotion.
Learn more about effective book marketing strategies from our guide on how Canadian authors are getting their books noticed.
Professional Guidance for New Authors
While self-publishing provides immense creative freedom, it also requires a detailed understanding of industry standards. Foglio's experience and support can guide you smoothly through each publishing stage, from manuscript evaluation to post-publication marketing.
Why Choose Foglio?
Foglio offers personalized, comprehensive publishing services designed to ensure your book meets professional standards. Our commitment to quality and meticulous attention to detail set us apart, providing you with a polished, market-ready book. Foglio's self-publishing packages cater specifically to the diverse needs of new authors.
Ready to Begin Your Publishing Journey?
You've done the hard work of writing your manuscript. Now, let Foglio help you navigate the publishing process effectively. Schedule a free consultation with me today and discover how we can bring your publishing vision to life.
Schedule your free consultation today and take the first confident step towards becoming a published author.
