I’m a solid advocate for using your own platform for your books instead of using popular brands such as Amazon and Draft2Digital. Sometime ago I wrote something on why you should avoid publishing on Amazon. The first time I tried publishing on Draft2Digital was in 2020. I tried almost all the popular platforms that year. My account on Draft2Digital was suddenly closed permanently with no explanation. As for Amazon, I couldn’t sell much and my few dollars ended up in their pocket since it was nothing close to the required $100 withdrawal limit. All these would have been avoided if I directly sold on my own website from the beginning. Many relationship coaches embrace this method, it’s never a mistake, apart from the money you’ll spend on web design, hosting and domain name. After all, if you’re selling on big platforms, you’ll still spend money on marketing if you don’t want to be the only one reading your book.
Publishing your eBook on your own website can offer some unique advantages. Here are a few reasons why you should consider it:
1. Full control: By publishing on your own website, you have complete control over the distribution, pricing, and marketing of your eBook. You aren’t bound by the rules or restrictions of third-party platforms, giving you the freedom to customize your approach to best suit your goals.
2. Direct relationship with readers: When readers download your eBook from your website, you can collect their email addresses or contact information, allowing you to build a direct relationship with them. This opens up opportunities for future communication, updates, or even sales of other products or services you may offer.
3. Brand visibility and authority: Publishing your eBook on your website strengthens your brand’s visibility and authority. It showcases your expertise, enhances your credibility, and positions you as a trusted source within your niche. This can lead to increased recognition and opportunities for partnerships, speaking engagements, or consulting work.
4. Flexibility in promotions and pricing: With your own website, you have the flexibility to run promotions, provide exclusive discounts, or offer bundle deals to your readers. This gives you more control over your pricing strategy and the ability to experiment with different approaches to attract and retain your audience.
5. Long-term profitability: While third-party platforms may take a percentage of your eBook sales, publishing on your own website allows you to keep 100% of the profits. Over time, this can significantly increase your profit margins, making it an attractive option for authors who want to maximize their earnings.
However, it’s important to note that publishing on your own website also comes with its own set of challenges. You’ll need to handle the technical aspects of hosting, file distribution, and ensuring a smooth purchasing experience for your readers. It’s crucial to invest time and effort into creating a user-friendly platform that inspires trust and encourages conversions.
Ultimately, the decision on which publishing route to take depends on your specific goals, resources, and audience. Assess your priorities and weigh the pros and cons to make an informed choice that aligns with your overall publishing strategy.
Originally published on dilju.com in 2023
