Strategies to Boost the Probability of a Book's Successful Sale
Self-publishing an eBook opens up a world of opportunities for authors, but pricing it right for maximum sales across different countries can be a challenge. Here's a guide to help you navigate the process, based on strategies suggested by best-selling Canadian author, Kelly D. Smith.
First and foremost, research competitive pricing in your genre and niche across various countries. Understanding the prevailing price points and customer willingness to pay in these markets is crucial. Prices can vary due to purchasing power, local market expectations, and other factors[1].
Next, familiarise yourself with different distribution platforms and their pricing models. Platforms like Smashwords, Draft2Digital, or PublishDrive allow worldwide distribution, enabling you to set a list price but with a cut—for example, these platforms typically let authors keep around 60% of the list price after retailer fees, with some commission variation by country due to taxes or retailer policies[2][3]. PublishDrive offers flat subscription fees or royalty splits with flexible pricing and broad international reach[3].
To maximize earnings and sales, set price points compatible with royalty thresholds. Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) offers 65% royalties for eBooks priced $2.99 and above. Pricing below that yields a lower rate (35%), making the $2.99–$9.99 price range a "sweet spot"[3].
Consider tailoring prices to local markets to reflect different economic conditions, taxes, and currency values. Some platforms support localized pricing automatically, helping maintain affordability and competitiveness in each country[4].
Don't forget to experiment with multi-channel selling and direct sales. Selling directly on your site, using platforms like Payhip, may allow greater pricing flexibility and higher profit per sale. Combining this with wide distribution via online stores covers both the broad market and loyal direct buyers[1][2].
Lastly, monitor and adjust pricing based on analytics. Use real-time sales data to track where your book sells best and adjust pricing accordingly. Being dynamic with prices—using discounts or promotions by region—can stimulate sales and respond to market demand[1].
In summary, maximize sales by setting competitive, locally adapted prices within the $2.99–$9.99 range where possible, using global aggregators for distribution, supplementing with direct sales for higher profit, and continually adjusting based on sales analytics and market feedback. This strategy balances royalty rates, market affordability, and wide availability internationally[2][3][4].
Remember, proper pricing is crucial for book sales. Avoid pricing an eBook too high or too low. To make an income from a book, it's important to get the work published and increase sales chances. The author also emphasises the importance of getting the work out in front of people, such as through reviews, excerpts, interviews, readings, and personal promotion.
For more insights, check out related articles like "A Simple Guide to Book Advances and Royalties", "The Importance of the Book Pre-Order to Authors", and "7 Ways to Boost Your Book Sales". Happy publishing!
[1] Smith, K. D. (2021). Self-Publishing: A Guide for Authors. Self-published.
[2] Smashwords. (2021). Pricing and Retailer Discounts. https://www.smashwords.com/help/pricing
[3] Draft2Digital. (2021). Pricing Your Book. https://www.draft2digital.com/pricing
[4] PublishDrive. (2021). Pricing and Royalties. https://www.publishdrive.com/pricing
- To attract more potential readers and boost sales across various countries, consider tailoring the pricing of your home-and-garden or lifestyle eBook to reflect different economic conditions, taxes, and currency values.
- When choosing a platform for global distribution, research their pricing models and royalty rates, keeping in mind that some platforms like PublishDrive offer flat subscription fees or royalty splits with flexible pricing and broad international reach.
