Have you ever wondered what gives your book its unique identity in the world of publishing?
What helps it stand out from the sea of other titles? If you're a self-published author, understanding the importance of owning your International Standard Book Number (ISBN) is crucial.
But why should you care about owning your ISBN, and how does it impact your publishing journey?
According to Bowker, the official ISBN agency for the United States, over 1.68 million self-published books were issued ISBNs in 2018 alone—a number that continues to grow each year.
With so many books flooding the market, having control over your ISBN is more important than ever.
Let's explore why self-published authors should own their ISBN, how it affects various aspects of the publishing process, and what this means for your book's success. Let's dive in!
What Is an ISBN, and Why Does It Matter?
An ISBN, or International Standard Book Number, is a 13-digit code that uniquely identifies your book. It's like a fingerprint for your book, helping retailers, libraries, and distributors track and sell it. But why is this tiny code so important?
Owning your ISBN gives you control over your book's identity. When you purchase your own ISBN, you're listed as the publisher, giving you complete authority over your book.
This means you decide where and how your book is distributed, what price it's sold at, and even how it appears in online searches. Without owning your ISBN, you might be at the mercy of third-party services that make these decisions for you.
How Does Owning an ISBN Impact Your Control as a Self-Published Author?
For self-published authors, owning your ISBN is like owning your brand. It solidifies your role as the publisher and not just the author. When you use a third-party service that provides a free or low-cost ISBN, they become the listed publisher, which can limit your control over your book. This might not seem like a big deal at first, but it can have long-term consequences.
For example, if you decide to switch distributors or sell your book in different markets, not owning your ISBN can restrict your options. Some retailers may even refuse to carry your book if you're not the listed publisher.
Owning your ISBN ensures you have the flexibility to make changes as needed and maintain control over your publishing rights.
Can Owning Your ISBN Affect Your Book’s Marketability?
Yes, owning your ISBN can significantly affect your book's marketability. When you're listed as the publisher, you have more freedom to market your book in the way that best suits your audience. This includes everything from pricing to distribution channels.
With your own ISBN, you can easily make your book available in both digital and print formats across various platforms. You can also set your own pricing strategy, which is crucial for attracting the right readers and making a profit.
Additionally, owning your ISBN makes it easier to get your book into libraries and bookstores, where having a unique identifier is essential.
What Are the Benefits of Owning an ISBN for Self-Publishing Book Design?
Owning your ISBN for self-publishing book design offers several key benefits:
- Complete Creative Control: You can choose the cover design, interior layout, and even the type of paper used, allowing you to create a book that fully represents your vision.
- Freedom from Restrictions: With third-party ISBNs, you may face limitations or specific guidelines set by the provider. Owning your ISBN removes these restrictions, giving you full control over your design choices.
- Flexibility for Updates: You can update your book’s design anytime you want, whether it's refreshing the cover or releasing a new edition. This flexibility helps keep your book competitive in the market.
- Brand Maintenance: Owning your ISBN ensures that your book maintains its unique brand identity, helping it stand out on the shelf and in online marketplaces.
How Does Owning an ISBN Support Professional Book Editing?
Professional book editing is crucial to producing a high-quality book that resonates with readers. When you own your ISBN, you're not just the author but also the publisher. This dual role allows you to oversee the entire editing process, ensuring that your book meets the highest standards.
With your own ISBN, you have the freedom to choose your editor, set deadlines, and approve all changes. This level of involvement is important because professional book editing is an investment in your book's success. By taking ownership of your ISBN, you can make sure that your book is polished and ready for publication without any external restrictions.
Why Should You Consider Hiring a Ghostwriter When Owning Your ISBN?
Owning your ISBN means you're in charge of the entire publishing process, but that doesn't mean you have to do everything yourself. Hiring a ghostwriter can be a smart move, especially if you're juggling multiple projects or if writing isn't your strongest suit.
Hiring a ghostwriter allows you to work with an expert who can help you realize your ideas while keeping complete control over the finished product. This might be especially helpful if you want to stick to a certain tone or aesthetic that complements your brand.
The ghostwriter works under your direction, and with your own ISBN, you ensure that the final product is truly yours, with your name on the cover and full control over the publishing rights.
Summary
Owning your ISBN is more than just a technicality—it's about taking control of your publishing journey. For self-published authors, having your own ISBN means you're the one calling the shots, from how your book is marketed to the way it looks and where it's sold. This level of control can make a significant difference in your book's success.
Whether you're focused on self-publishing book design, professional book editing, or planning to hire a ghostwriter, having your own ISBN ensures that your book reflects your vision and meets your standards.
At Authors On Mission, we believe in empowering authors to take charge of their publishing careers. So, why not start with owning your ISBN? It's a small step that can lead to big results. Ready to make your mark in the publishing world? Let Authors On Mission guide you on your journey to success!
