Self-published book projects benefit from the same support services traditional publishers provide. They include everything from content preparation services, such as editing, proofreading, and cover design, to professional book printing. Authors publishing independently must also plan marketing and ensure their books are well-represented with online booksellers. Specifically, it means completing book and author pages with user-friendly keyword-rich content that attracts searches. If you've written a book, it's common to want to sit back when you finish, but the reality is much more needs to be done.

Professional book cover designers are essential to every project. A well-designed cover is crucial to brick-and-mortar stores and online sellers. All rely on a compelling cover to help attract interest. They also need to be appropriate for the genre, and while they can't repeat what's already been done, they need to be understandable. Getting too far ahead of what target readers understand can be an easily avoidable drawback. It's also vital to stay within understood conventions of your genre and not make the cover of a book on personal finances in purple – because green, the color of money is symbolic in the genre.

Print-on-demand book publishing is also an option if your book fits well in a template-driven environment. Generally, it means books that are text heavy and can do well in ordinary trim sizes. If you feel your work needs something more unique, finding a professional book printer with a broad range of options will be helpful. Your decision about which binding to use is also consequential. Books that will be carried often benefit from lighter-weight paperback bindings. Hardcover is optimal for stately volumes that will be kept or displayed; they look and feel higher-end. Spiral is for books often kept open.

Professional book editors add value to your book project. Their candid analysis of your text and suggestions to improve flow and readability is crucial. When readers compare your work to other books they've read, you want your content to stand up well to scrutiny. As the author, you're close to your work, and the trained eye of an outsider can bring excellent and needed perspective. Others evaluating your work will be impressed when your book is well-edited and has a professionally designed cover. They will also support your marketing efforts and help you improve with buyers and the media.