Most authors when they self-publish are satisfied with simply being a sole proprietor, but they can gain significantly by creating an independent publishing company.
As the author, you own the publishing company, which in turn owns the book’s ISBN. On every book you print, the publishing company is listed on the title and the half-title pages.
While this may sound like going through a lot of rigmarole, there actually are a number of advantages to it:
• Looks more professional – You can register ISBN and LCCN under your company, which looks better to traditionalists than listing “CreateSpace” or your name as the publisher.
• Allows you to separate your business finances from your personal finances – While this isn’t necessary in a sole proprietorship, some people prefer to do so; of course, to separate the two, you need to have an actual business.
• Creates options for you – Your business doesn’t have to be limited to publishing only your books; as an independent publisher, you can publish other authors’ books as well as set up services such as formatting and cover design all under your publishing company’s umbrella.
• Pick up recognition as a publisher – Publishers can enter their works in contests and receive other recognitions – all of which boost book sales – that authors otherwise don’t have access to.
• Increase your own production efficiency – Even if your business never publishes other authors’ books, knowing how to perform every step in the publishing process actually can improve the speed and save you money in getting out your own books.
The downside to creating your own self-publishing company is that you may need to do some extra work and spend a little extra money. Depending on how you name your company, you may need to file paperwork with your city/county/state (and there’s a filing fee), do an extra set of taxes (one for your company and one for personal income tax), and maintain an additional bank account. But most of that work and expense comes up front when you first form your business.
Professional Book Editor: Having your novel, short story or nonfiction manuscript proofread or edited before submitting it can prove invaluable. In an economic climate where you face heavy competition, your writing needs a second eye to give you the edge. I can provide that second eye.