Hybrid publishing is the newer kid on the block compared to traditional publishing and self-publishing. For some authors, it’s the best of both worlds. For others, newer isn’t always better.
In this article, you’ll learn the ins and outs of hybrid publishing, along with its costs and benefits—and how Scribe’s model is efficient and customizable.
With a hybrid model, publishers may pay authors little to no advance and keep some of the book’s royalties, though every company’s model is different. Typically, hybrid publishers control much of the publishing process, complete a portion (or all) of the work, and oversee publication.
Traditional publishing and self-publishing lie at opposite ends of the spectrum, with hybrid publishing in the middle. A traditional publishing model has the following components:
While traditional publishers handle book distribution, any book marketing is left in authors’ hands. This is because big publishers have never needed to worry about reaching readers, the end users.
In the self-publishing model, authors manage all publishing work, whether that’s hiring freelancers or publishing services companies for a fee or completing all work themselves. Here’s how it’s set up:
So which authors benefit the most from a hybrid publishing model?
Perhaps you’re an expert in your field and ready to write a book. You may not be a recognizable household name, so finding an agent to represent you and pursuing the traditional publishing path is probably out of the question. You know how much you want to spend and have chapter and cover ideas, but you’ll need help with writing, organizing, publishing, and probably even marketing your book. This is the profile of a hybrid author.
In hybrid publishing, depending on the publisher you work with, you may hang on to some or all of the rights to your book. As far as writing, publication, distribution, and marketing are concerned, you have options that vary by publisher.
Here are your key considerations if you think hybrid publishing is for you:
Scribe Pro is an interview-based book writing and publishing service similar to ghostwriting. These are its features:
Entrepreneurs, executives, and consultants are clients who benefit the most from Scribe Pro, but anyone who wants to write and publish a professional book in their words and voice with the support of a book team and ghostwriters can utilize Scribe Pro services and get their money’s worth.
First, you want to work with a company that has crafted and published many books. Publishing a book is no easy feat, and it’s important that the team you work with understands every aspect and has lived through all real and imagined complications. Experience counts.
Think of the support you need as an author, too. Are you focused mainly on ghostwriting services, or do you want to work with a publisher who can manage the beginning through end of the publishing process? Not all hybrid publishers handle marketing or promotion, either, so you’ll want to ensure that you’re looking at more than just price when you select a publishing company.
Speaking of price and value, you’ll want to read the contract drafted for you, make sure you understand it, and read it again. Know the options you have with the publishing model you’ve selected. Is there a mandatory timeline for publication? What if your ghostwriter isn’t a great match? Who owns the royalties and rights? By signing a contract with a publisher, you’re committing to a long-term relationship that will produce one of the most meaningful end products you’ll ever create.
The hybrid model allows you to complete this journey with support, resources, and peace of mind, knowing that your book is the best it can be. But not all hybrid publishers are the same. Give Scribe Pro a try and allow us to help you craft a book you can be proud of.