Here is a truth that most authors know: getting published is very hard. Traditional publishing is harder but the rewards are greater. Many authors lose heart mid-way and go the self-publishing route, which has nothing wrong with it. It does give the author more freedom to do as they please in terms of basically everything. However, there is something about getting your book published by a publishing house that just lures authors in. There is respect and a sense of satisfaction that comes with going the traditional publishing route.

However, there is nothing forcing you to choose traditional publishing over self-publishing. Both of these methods have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, so you should make the decision that is best for you. If you are leaning more towards traditional publishing then here are the pros and cons of this method that you should know about.

The Cons of Traditional Publishing

To begin with, you will have lower royalty rates. The author will only begin to earn royalties after some time. Another con of using traditional publishing methods is that you will not get paychecks monthly. Most publishing houses pay their royalties once or twice a year, which often makes it tough for authors to keep writing as their main job. Some publishing houses will not give the author a lot of creative control over the book. Things such as the title of the book, its cover, blurb, and the marketing will mostly be out of your control. The publishing process can be longer than a year and the contracts need to be read very carefully before signing them.

The Pros of Traditional Publishing

The pros of traditional publishing are actually bigger than you might expect. The first advantage begins with your literary agent; he or she is not just taking your manuscript to different publishing houses. They will be your voice and your protector; they will negotiate deals on your behalf, the contracts, and royalty rates and overall make sure you are treated right by the publishing house. You will have a team of professionals who will help you make your book perfect and ready to have maximum impact on your readers. You will have proofreaders, editors, designers, marketers and many more to help you bring your novel to shape. You will not be making any payments; instead, the publishing house will front all the costs. The best thing is that they will be paying you an advance which is basically a signing bonus. You will have to fulfill your contract requirements though. You will get better visibility, wider reach and more time to write if things go as expected. There is a respect that comes with having your novel published by a traditional publishing house, you get to carry their name like a badge and if your books are a success, you become an asset to the publishing house. Many readers are hesitant about reading a self-published book, so you will be free of this stigma.