At Skinny Brown Dog Media, we believe your book is just the beginning. We don’t just publish books—we help authors create thriving businesses and recognizable brands that resonate with their audiences.
Let’s explore how you can develop a powerful personal brand to take your career as an author to the next level.
Why Your Brand Matters as an Author
Think about Amazon for a moment. When you see that iconic smile logo, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s their fast delivery, their vast product selection, or their commitment to customer satisfaction. That logo represents more than a company—it embodies the consistent values and experiences Amazon provides.
As an author, your personal brand works in a similar way. It’s not just about writing a great book; it’s about the unique values, expertise, and qualities that set you apart. Your brand is what makes readers want to follow your journey, engage with your content, and recommend your work.
At Skinny Brown Dog Media, we’re here to help you embrace your unique story and turn it into a platform for success.
How to Build a Personal Brand as a First-Time Author
Creating your personal brand doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It’s about authentically showcasing what makes you stand out. Here are six steps to get started:
How Skinny Brown Dog Media Can Help You Build Your Brand
At Skinny Brown Dog Media, we don’t just help you publish your book—we partner with you to build your business and brand.
Our comprehensive publishing packages include personalized marketing sessions to help you create a strategy that goes beyond the book. We’ll dive deep into your vision, goals, and audience to craft a tailored plan for success.
Here’s how we can support you:
Our mission is simple: to help authors like you not only succeed but thrive by building a brand that leaves a lasting impression.
Ready to Elevate Your Author Brand?
At Skinny Brown Dog Media, we know that first-time authors often face the challenge of standing out in a crowded marketplace. That’s why we go beyond traditional publishing services to help you create a brand that captures attention and builds trust.
If you’re ready to take your personal brand to the next level, we’d love to help. Schedule a discovery call with our team today, and let’s chart a course to help you shine.
Your book is your foundation—let us help you build something extraordinary on top of it.
With Skinny Brown Dog Media, you’re not just publishing a book; you’re launching your brand, your business, and your future as an author. Let’s make your story unforgettable.
SEO Keywords:
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of seeing your work in print. Whether it’s a novel, a memoir, a how-to guide, or a poetry collection, seeing your words professionally bound and beautifully presented is a dream come true for any author. But behind that polished final product lies a series of decisions, each of which can have a significant impact on how your book looks, feels, and is received by readers. One of the most important of these decisions is your book’s trim size.
What Is Trim Size and Why Does It Matter?
Trim size refers to the dimensions of your book — the width and height of each page once the book is printed and bound. For example, a popular trim size for novels is 5.5” x 8.5”, while a coffee table art book might be closer to 10” x 10”. The trim size you choose will affect not only the appearance of your book but also its readability, production cost, and how it’s perceived by booksellers and readers.
Choosing the right trim size can be an overwhelming decision, especially for first-time authors. However, understanding your genre, audience expectations, and the practicalities of print production can help guide you to the right choice. Let’s dive into the factors you should consider when choosing a trim size for your book.
1. Genre Expectations
One of the simplest ways to narrow down your trim size options is to consider your book’s genre. Certain genres tend to be associated with specific trim sizes, and readers often expect books in those genres to conform to these standards. Here are some popular book sizes by genre:
Choosing a trim size that aligns with your genre helps set reader expectations and gives your book a professional, polished look.
2. Production and Printing Costs
Trim size isn’t just an aesthetic choice — it also has a significant impact on production costs. Smaller books require fewer pages to reach a certain word count, which can lower printing costs. For example, a 50,000-word manuscript formatted in a 5” x 8” trim size will take up more pages than the same manuscript formatted at 6” x 9”, potentially increasing your printing expenses.
When choosing your trim size, it’s important to work with your publisher or printing service to understand how your choice will affect the bottom line. Keep in mind that:
If you’re planning to sell your book at a specific price point, consider how trim size will affect your costs and whether that price point will still be profitable.
3. Readability and Layout
The trim size of your book directly influences the layout of the text on each page. Factors like font size, line spacing, and margin width are all affected by trim size, and choosing the wrong size can make your book difficult to read or visually unappealing. Here are a few considerations:
Balancing these factors will help ensure that your book is a pleasure to read and looks visually appealing on every page.
4. Distribution and Retail Considerations
If you’re planning to distribute your book widely, it’s worth noting that some retailers and distributors may have preferences or restrictions related to trim size. For example:
5. Visual Appeal and Branding
Your book’s trim size can also influence its overall aesthetic and branding. For example, a large-format coffee table book will make a completely different impression than a compact paperback, even if the content is similar. Think about how you want readers to perceive your book and how trim size can contribute to that perception:
Consulting with a Publishing Specialist
If you’re still unsure about which trim size to choose, consulting with a publishing specialist can be invaluable. An experienced publishing professional can offer guidance based on industry standards, production costs, and design considerations specific to your genre and target audience.
Publishing specialists can also help you visualize how your manuscript will look in various trim sizes, giving you a clearer sense of how the final product will feel in your readers’ hands. At BookBaby, our knowledgeable Publishing Specialists are here to assist you with all aspects of your book design and formatting, including selecting the ideal trim size.
Final Thoughts: Making Your Book Stand Out
Selecting the right trim size for your book is an essential step in creating a professional, appealing product. It’s not just a matter of aesthetics; it’s a strategic decision that affects everything from production costs to reader experience. By understanding your genre’s standards, evaluating practical considerations, and seeking guidance from publishing professionals, you can ensure that your book is not only beautiful but also functional, marketable, and memorable.
At BookBaby, we’re here to help you through every stage of the publishing process. From choosing the perfect trim size to designing a custom cover, our team is dedicated to bringing your vision to life. Contact us today to speak with a Publishing Specialist, explore our free resources, or get pricing information. With BookBaby, you can publish your book with confidence, knowing you have industry experts by your side.
]]>In today’s saturated book market, a compelling cover isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a powerful marketing tool that can make or break a reader’s decision to pick up your book. Let’s dive into why your book cover is so important and explore some strategies to help it stand out.
Why Judging a Book by Its Cover Truly Matters
First impressions count, especially in the world of books. Here’s why your cover is crucial:
Current Book Cover Design Trends for 2024
To give your book a modern, polished feel, it’s important to keep an eye on current design trends. Here are some to consider:
Why Your Cover Choice Matters
A well-designed cover doesn’t just look good—it drives sales. Often, it’s the first interaction a reader has with your story, and that first impression is key to drawing them in. Your cover is more than just a visual; it’s an invitation to explore what lies within.
At Skinny Brown Dog Media – The Home for Visionary Storytellers, we understand the importance of making your book cover reflect your vision while also appealing to your target audience. Our team works closely with you to create a cover that captures the essence of your story, ensuring it stands out in both online and physical marketplaces.
Whether you’re publishing an eBook, paperback, or hardcover, our experience in designing covers that resonate with readers can help your book make a lasting impression.
Ready to give your book the professional cover it deserves? Let’s talk about how we can support you throughout the entire publishing process. Visit us at Skinny Brown Dog Media and set up a discovery call today!
]]>In fact, it’s a misconception that print-on-demand (POD) books can’t be stocked in stores. While it can be more difficult for indie authors using POD services, it’s not impossible. The key lies in understanding the factors that drive bookstore stocking decisions and taking steps to meet their needs.
Let’s break it down.
1. Discounts and Returns: Make Your Book Appealing to Retailers
Most bookstores want a 40-55% discount on the retail price, plus the ability to return unsold copies. Many POD services, like Amazon’s KDP, don’t offer returnable options or the standard discount retailers expect. This makes your book less appealing to major retailers like Barnes & Noble.
However, if you publish through a platform like Ingram Spark, you can offer both the discount and the returns option, making your book a viable choice for retail stores. At Skinny Brown Dog Media, we help authors ensure their books meet these retailer-friendly terms, so you have a fighting chance of getting onto store shelves.
2. Quality Perception: Show Your Book is High-Quality
Some bookstores might hesitate to stock POD books because of concerns about quality. The best way to overcome this is by ensuring your book is professionally designed, well-edited, and presented like a traditionally published book.
When you work with Skinny Brown Dog Media, we ensure your book is top-notch—inside and out—so that when bookstores or potential buyers see it, they recognize its quality. Once bookstores realize that your indie-published book is just as polished as a traditionally published one, they’ll be much more open to stocking it.
3. Distribution: Ensure Your Book is Available Through Ingram
Barnes & Noble and most bookstores rely on wholesalers like Ingram to order books. If your book isn’t listed through a major distributor, it’s virtually invisible to them.
At Skinny Brown Dog Media, we partner with distributors like Ingram, which means your book will be listed in the catalogs that stores use to source their stock. This ensures that when a bookstore manager searches for your book, they can actually find it and order it.
4. Local Outreach: Start Small with Indie Stores
While it might be challenging to get your book stocked nationwide right off the bat, local indie bookstores can be more flexible. If you’re a local author, stores are often more willing to stock your book—especially if you pitch it to them in person and offer to do book signings or other events. Consignment agreements are also common, where the store stocks your book and only pays you once it sells.
Getting your book into smaller stores can build momentum, leading to larger opportunities down the road. Local outreach is often the first step in growing your presence in brick-and-mortar locations.
Why Does Barnes & Noble Say No to POD Books?
Now, let’s dive deeper into why large retailers like Barnes & Noble might initially say no to stocking your POD book, even if it’s available through Ingram.
How Can You Help Barnes & Noble See ROI?
Bookstores are businesses, and they need to know that stocking your book will bring a return on investment (ROI). Here’s how you can help them see the value of carrying your book:
Final Thoughts
While getting your book into Barnes & Noble or other major retailers can be more challenging as an indie author using POD, it’s not impossible. At Skinny Brown Dog Media, we guide our authors through the steps needed to increase their chances of success, from setting up the right distribution channels to creating professional-quality books that stores want to carry.
It’s important to remember that bookstores want to see ROI, but with a solid marketing plan, professional presentation, and distribution through the right channels, you can show them that your book is worth the investment.
Ready to take your book to the next level? Let us help you achieve your author goals.
]]>As writers, we’re constantly trying to connect with readers, but it can be easy to overlook the powerful ways that psychology influences how people respond to our work. Lately, I’ve been fascinated by some psychological quirks that can make a big impact when it comes to writing, particularly in marketing. One of my favorites is the Eaton-Rosen phenomenon, also known as The Rhyme as Reason Effect.
What’s the Eaton-Rosen Phenomenon?
Have you ever noticed that things that rhyme tend to feel more believable? This phenomenon explains why rhyming statements are more likely to be perceived as true or memorable. A famous example of this is from the O.J. Simpson trial when Johnnie Cochrane said, “If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit.” That rhyme packed a punch—it made a legal argument sound not only catchy but convincing.
For authors, this is a golden opportunity. Think about how you can incorporate catchy rhymes to make your book stand out in readers’ minds.
The Power of Rhyme in Your Marketing
Let’s say you’re marketing a thriller novel. You could play around with phrases like:
Both examples use rhyme to create a memorable impression. And though rhymes can sometimes come across as cheesy, when done right, they can be incredibly effective at sticking with your audience.
Enter Cognitive Fluency Bias
This brings us to another fun psychological quirk: Cognitive Fluency Bias. This concept explains that we are more likely to believe and trust ideas that are simple and easy to understand. The clearer your message, the more believable it becomes.
This is crucial for book marketing because potential readers are bombarded with options. If your book description or sales copy is too complicated, readers may move on to the next book. Keep it simple, keep it clear.
How I Use Cognitive Fluency When Teaching
When I’m coaching authors on writing hooks, I often come back to simple, memorable phrases. For example, “Hooks sell books” or “If you want to sell books, focus on your hooks.” These short, punchy lines capture attention while being easy to remember. You can see how the combination of rhyme and cognitive fluency works together to reinforce a message.
I also recommend using tools like the Hemingway Editor to simplify your copy. I aim for a 6th-grade reading level or below when drafting book descriptions or marketing materials. The clearer and simpler the language, the more accessible it is to readers. You don’t want potential buyers stumbling over complex sentences—give them something that flows smoothly and is easy to digest.
Alliteration for the Win
Not a fan of rhymes? No problem! Another way to make your writing more memorable is through alliteration. Phrases like “buy books, build buzz” or “creative characters captivate” are easy to remember and roll off the tongue. Alliteration is less risky than rhyming because it often feels more natural, but it’s still a fun and effective way to make your message stick.
Wrapping It Up
Next time you’re working on marketing your book, think about how you can apply these psychological quirks. Whether you’re using rhyme, simplifying your copy, or sprinkling in some alliteration, you’ll be creating marketing materials that resonate with readers—and that’s the key to driving sales.
What strategies have you found effective in promoting your books? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Ready to Make Your Book Stand Out?
If you’re looking to craft unforgettable hooks and market your book with the power of psychology, we can help! Visit Skinny Brown Dog Media to learn more about how we can guide you from manuscript to marketing success. Let’s make your book the one readers can’t put down!
]]>The Power of Interactive Storytelling
In the digital age, storytelling has evolved beyond traditional narratives. While most people understand the basics of storytelling, technology has opened up new avenues to make our stories more engaging and impactful. Interactive storytelling is at the forefront of this revolution, especially in the realm of coaching.
Beyond Passive Listening
Imagine a coaching session where your client isn’t just a passive listener, but an active participant in the story you’re weaving. This is the essence of interactive storytelling. It allows clients to:
Creating Personalized Experiences
Every client’s journey through an interactive story is unique. By making choices that align with their thoughts and instincts, clients create a personalized experience that resonates deeply with their own situation. This personalization leads to:
1. Increased Relevance: The story adapts to the client’s choices, making it more applicable to their specific challenges.
2. Enhanced Emotional Connection: As clients see the story unfold based on their decisions, they become emotionally invested in the outcome.
3. Improved Self-Awareness: The process of making decisions within the story encourages clients to reflect on their decision-making patterns in real life.
Turning Lessons into AHA Moments
Interactive storytelling has a unique power to transform theoretical lessons into profound realizations. Here’s how:
Examples in Coaching Contexts
1. Career Transition Scenario: Create a story where the protagonist is considering a career change. Let the client make decisions about networking, skill development, and job applications, showing how each choice impacts the character’s journey.
2. Leadership Development: Craft a narrative about a leader facing a team conflict. Allow the client to choose different leadership styles and communication approaches, illustrating their effectiveness in various situations.
3. Work-Life Balance: Develop a story about balancing professional ambitions with personal life. Let clients make choices about time management, prioritization, and boundary-setting, revealing the long-term impacts of these decisions.
The Magic of Interactive Storytelling
Imagine your clients not just listening to stories, but actively shaping them. That’s the essence of interactive storytelling. It’s an approach that turns passive listeners into engaged participants, creating a uniquely personalized experience.
What Makes It Special?
1. Active Participation: Clients make decisions that influence the story’s direction.
2. Personalized Experience: Each story unfolds differently based on client choices.
3. Deeper Engagement: By being part of the narrative, clients stay focused and invested.
Why It’s a Game-Changer for Coaches
Interactive storytelling isn’t just engaging – it’s transformative. Here’s why:
Implementing Interactive Storytelling in Your Practice
Ready to revolutionize your coaching sessions? Here are some practical tips:
1. Use Relatable Scenarios: Create situations mirroring your clients’ challenges.
2. Leverage Technology: Explore interactive eBooks or custom apps for a dynamic edge.
3. Offer Multiple Endings: Let clients explore various solutions and learn from different outcomes.
The Accountability Factor
Interactive storytelling goes beyond engagement – it’s a powerful tool for fostering accountability:
Bringing It All Together
By incorporating interactive storytelling into your coaching toolkit, you’re not just telling stories – you’re creating experiences. It’s a fresh, dynamic approach that makes your coaching more personal, impactful, and memorable.
Remember, the key is to make your clients feel like active participants in their own growth journey. With interactive storytelling, you’re not just a coach; you’re a guide in their unfolding narrative of success.
Ready to Transform Your Coaching Experience?
If you’re excited about the potential of interactive storytelling in your coaching practice but unsure where to start, we’re here to help. Skinny Brown Dog Media specializes in creating tailored interactive storytelling solutions for coaches and educators.
Take the Next Step:
1. Explore Custom Solutions: Let us design interactive stories that align perfectly with your coaching style and client needs.
2. Learn the Techniques: Join our workshops to master the art of interactive storytelling in coaching.
3. Implement with Confidence: Get ongoing support as you integrate these powerful tools into your practice.
Don’t let your coaching sessions remain static. Embrace the power of interactive storytelling and watch your clients’ engagement and progress soar!
Contact Skinny Brown Dog Media today to start your interactive storytelling journey. Together, we’ll create coaching experiences that truly resonate and transform lives.
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.skinnybrowndogmedia.com
Transform your coaching. Empower your clients. Contact us now!
]]>1. Credibility and Professionalism
Choosing a publisher who is a member of the IBPA, like Skinny Brown Dog Media, means you’re aligning yourself with an organization dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism in publishing. The IBPA’s strict code of ethics ensures that its members are committed to transparency, fair dealings, and integrity. This association lends your book a stamp of credibility that can be crucial in gaining the trust of readers, reviewers, and industry professionals. With us, your book is in safe, professional hands.
2. Access to a Wealth of Resources
As an IBPA member, we have access to a plethora of resources that dramatically improve the quality of your book. From workshops and webinars to marketing tools and distribution networks, these resources help us stay updated with the latest industry trends and best practices. When you work with Skinny Brown Dog Media, you benefit directly from our enhanced knowledge and capabilities, ensuring your book is produced and promoted to the highest standards.
3. Enhanced Distribution Channels
Getting your book into the hands of readers is one of the most significant challenges for indie authors. As an IBPA-affiliated publisher, we have established relationships with major distributors and retailers, both online and offline. This network significantly increases your book’s visibility and availability, leading to higher sales and a broader audience reach. With Skinny Brown Dog Media, your book is more likely to find its way to the readers who will love it.
4. Marketing and Promotional Support
We know marketing can be daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the myriad of strategies available. As IBPA members, we have access to exclusive marketing tools and platforms. At Skinny Brown Dog Media, we provide you with professional marketing plans, media kits, and promotional strategies tailored to your book’s genre and target audience. This support is invaluable in building your author brand and driving book sales. We’re here to help your book shine.
5. Advocacy and Industry Representation
The publishing industry can be complex and intimidating, especially for new authors. The IBPA advocates for indie publishers and authors, representing their interests in the broader publishing ecosystem. This advocacy can lead to greater opportunities for visibility and recognition within the industry, as well as influence policies that support the growth and sustainability of indie publishing. We at Skinny Brown Dog Media are proud to be part of this advocacy, ensuring our authors’ interests are well represented.
6. Networking Opportunities
Being part of the IBPA network means we can connect with other industry professionals, including authors, editors, designers, and marketers. These connections can lead to collaborations, partnerships, and opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. Networking within this community provides valuable insights and advice, helping us navigate the publishing landscape more effectively. We leverage these connections to benefit our authors, creating a supportive and resource-rich environment for you.
7. Education and Development
Continuous learning is essential in the ever-changing world of publishing. IBPA offers educational programs that cover a wide range of topics, from writing and editing to marketing and legal issues. As your publisher, we participate in these programs to bring back valuable knowledge that directly benefits you. By choosing Skinny Brown Dog Media, you ensure that your publishing partner is committed to ongoing professional development, which in turn enhances the quality and success of your book.
Conclusion
In the competitive world of indie publishing, having a publisher who is a member of the IBPA can provide you with significant advantages. From enhanced credibility and professional resources to improved distribution and marketing support, the benefits are substantial. By aligning yourself with an IBPA-affiliated publisher, you can focus more on your writing while trusting that the business side of publishing is in capable hands.
At Skinny Brown Dog Media, we are proud to be a member of the IBPA, embodying all the values and standards that make IBPA-affiliated publishers exceptional. By choosing us, you are not only gaining a reliable publishing partner but also tapping into a network of resources, expertise, and support designed to help your author career flourish.
Take the next step in your writing journey with confidence. Choose Skinny Brown Dog Media, a proud IBPA member, and watch your author career thrive!
]]>