Indies, create your One Percent.

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Usually we read the differences between Indie and Traditional Publishing, and there are some very stark differences. But that doesn't mean we as Indies can't learn from the big guys. They do some things right. Otherwise they wouldn't have lasted as long as they have.

Perhaps this isn't a revolutionary idea, but it was kind of a brainstorm for me, and I don't think I've read this tip quite expressed like how I'm about to put it.

The One Percent Factor

Traditional publishers do well because at the end of the day, they make money, and despite the intrusion of Indies into their realm, this is likely to continue. Why?

Because of the 1% factor.

A publisher knows that not every book is going to sell. In fact, some books they lose money on. But occasionally if they can get a best seller, the One Percent out there, they'll be fine.

It may be a while before the next one comes along, but as long as they have their star authors, they'll float above water. Of course, that explains why the average author—even the tradionally published—doesn't make enough money to live off royalties.

The Indie One Percent

Even if Indies group themselves together and publish as a group, they'd have to share royalties in order to support the books that don't sell well. I don't know anyone who would put up with this for long, for the weak authors would be feeding off the backs of the Indie One Percent.

However, each Indie author can have his own One Percent.

Sometimes writers get the idea that all they need to do is write that one awesome book. Once the right person sees it, they will become the next Stephen King. Oh, how many dreams are smashed when reality sets in!

So, how are Indies to create their own One Percent?

By writing more books and not stopping. Of course, time and effort need to go into not only the writing of each book but also into the editing and marketing of each book.

If writing is what you love to do, and you want to make a living off of it, improve your craft, and keep writing ... every day. If you are destined to be a world class Indie writer, you will create your One Percent, the books in your backlist that sell and sell ... and sell some more.

Have you had this experience? Have you seen sales of books rise with the release and marketing of a new book?

I'd love to hear about your experiences, maybe even share them on the blog. Contact me: msl_007@live.com ... or leave a comment below.