January 14 BAIPA Meeting
Jim Azevedo, Marketing Director of Smashwords
(Morning Speaker + Afternoon Workshop)
Here’s a preview of the BAIPA January meeting by presenter Jim Azevedo.
My morning session will be more of an introduction to ebooks, how to create them and how to get them into online retail stores and public libraries. Perhaps more importantly, we’ll cover the why — that is, why are we talking about ebooks in the first place, and why do ebooks matter to indie authors and publishers.
The afternoon session builds upon the morning session by revealing real-world best practices that have helped indie authors reach the top of the charts.
An Introduction to Ebook Self-Publishing
It’s easier to self-publish an ebook than you might imagine. No technical experience necessary! In this introductory, jargon-free primer to ebook self-publishing, we’ll cover the basics. You’ll be presented an ebook publishing checklist covering everything you need to know to get started. The session will begin by providing an overview of the latest ebook market trends, and then we’ll provide detailed guidance on ebook creation, pricing and distribution. Attendees will learn how to get their books distributed to libraries and major ebook retailers. This session is ideal for both aspiring authors working on their first book, as well as professional authors who are investigating ebook self-publishing for the first time.
The Secrets of Ebook Publishing Success
In the next Smashwords workshop, Jim will reveal the best practices of the most successful self-published ebook authors. Among the best practices he’ll discuss, a significant amount of time (and about 20% of the slide presentation) will be devoted to cover images. You’ll see several bestselling cover examples from multiple genres, hear key advice about cover design development, and be shown a case study example from a NY Times bestseller. Simple, yet important strategies will be uncovered to help make your books more accessible, more discoverable and more desirable to readers. Authors and publishers will depart the afternoon session having learned how to self-publish with greater pride and professionalism.
Author
One of my favorite things about BAIPA is its culture of generosity, the willingness — even eagerness — to share what we have each learned in the process of bringing stories to life. We provide educational programs, networking, marketing opportunities, encouragement, and information on industry vendors and services. And lots of one-on-one advice and mentoring.
We welcome all who have an interest in making connections within the world of independent publishing and learning more about how to publish and sell their work successfully. Together we are raising the standard of independent publishing and helping our members thrive.
Do join us!
—Becky Parker Geist, BAIPA Board of Directors, President
Quick Resources
Current BAIPA members do not need to register for our monthly meetings. The night before the meetings, they will receive the Zoom info. For workshop registration, members can buy a member ticket and will receive the Zoom info the night before the meetings, as well as in the confirmation email.