Hybrid publishing is becoming increasingly popular for new and experienced authors alike, but what makes it different from traditional and self-publishing? Why do new authors choose to work with a hybrid publisher?
There are numerous advantages to working with a hybrid publisher to publish your book. Generally speaking, the process is easiest and most approachable for well-qualified skilled writers. Hybrid publishing offers authors a viable middle ground between self publishing and traditional publishing, allowing them to take control of their own creative process while at the same time having access to many of the benefits offered by traditional publishers.
“The traditional publishing process usually requires authors to have an agent. The agent then submits the manuscript to a publisher on the author’s behalf. Hybrid publishers are more open. They allow authors to send their manuscripts directly without having to go through agents or other middlemen.”
Hybrid publishers help authors through the entire process of getting their book published. They can provide editorial services, marketing advice, editing & design, distribution platform connections — all while keeping rightsholder rights and control in the hands of the author.
3 Ways Authors Make Hybrid Publishing Work
What most new authors appreciate is that hybrid publishing allows them to keep control of their own creative process while still having access to the benefits offered by traditional publishers. This means authors get professional support throughout the entire process as well as retain all rights and royalties for their work, plus have much faster turnaround times than with traditional publishing.
Hybrid Publishing can give new authors a great starting point when navigating an unfamiliar landscape in writing and publishing, allowing them to take advantage of both worlds: retaining ownership over their book while getting quality professional help they need so they can focus on what matters most.
Sneak peek at 3 of the ways authors are making hybrid publishing work for them:
- Hybrid publishers sit between traditional and self-publishing
- Hybrid publishing empowers authors to regain control of the Creative Process
- Hybrid publishers are more open to submissions directly from authors without an agent
1. Hybrid publishers sit between traditional and self-publishing
Hybrid publishing fits as a stepping stone between traditional and self-publishing: it gives new authors the professional support they need while also giving them control over their book rights & get access to a national market. This can be an empowering opportunity for writers who want to reach out to readers on their own terms while still having access to the services most people expect from established publishers.
For new authors, hybrid publishing works to their advantage. It’s a great way to get started in the industry and build up a reputation that will allow them to move on in traditional or self-publishing down the line, should they choose.
As you consider hybrid publishing for your new book, remember to do your research. Consider the services offered, rights & royalties for authors – and see if it looks like a good fit for you and your book project. The most important thing is to find an experienced publisher who can help you through all stages of publishing from editing to distribution.
2. Hybrid publishing empowers authors to regain control of the Creative Process
One of the biggest benefits for authors using hybrid publishers is that they get to keep all rights and royalties related to their work. The benefit authors truly enjoy and generally “feel” the most, is how they have control over all rights to their work.
Hybrid publishing puts the power back in the hands of writers.
With traditional publishers, authors can be left anxious about whether or not their ideas will be approved and published. And, more often than not, let down… as they learn more about their royalties and further disappointed as their new publisher properly “edits” their lovely manuscript.
3. Hybrid publishers are more open to submissions directly from authors without an agent
When traditional publishers accept manuscripts, they heavily vet each one to make sure that it meets their standards and expectations. Hybrid publishers do the same thing, making sure every manuscript they receive meets their strict standards.
Hybrid publishers will accept a manuscript from an author directly. No agent or middle-party required. They are generally more open to submissions directly from authors without an agent or prior connection. This makes submitting much easier for new writers as there’s not a long winded process involved in order to get your proposal accepted if you self-publish first using a hybrid publisher too.
Other considerations
So, as you work to finish your manuscript, consider hybrid publishing as a great option to get your book out into the world. It can be freeing only working with a cup of tea and a quick chat with your writing coach to get that last chapter finished and the manuscript submitted.
For new authors who want to get their work out there but are feeling overwhelmed by all aspects involved in publication, hybrid publishing can be just what they need.
Related Resources:
- Read more about the five most important questions every author should ask themselves before self publishing their book.
- Explore the key benefits of hybrid publishing and of working with hybrid publishers.
- If you’re new to hybrid publishing, take a look at this Introductory Guide to Hybrid Publishing: What is Hybrid Publishing?