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When you take on self-publishing a work of your own, be wary of some of the reasons that traditional publishing looks down on self-published books. While some of the reasons do not hold up in the current marketplace with some of the best sellers coming from the self-publishing marketplace.

One of the biggest mistakes I see authors make is not spell checking their own work and not hiring their own editor. - Meg Meyer

When your own name goes on the work, and it is YOU self-publishing - regardless of what printing or publishing company you work with - You, Mr. or Ms. Author, are responsible for the quality of your work. If you spend $1000, to have your book in print, and it comes out with a typo, a wrong word, or formatting issues - it is likely your own fault and $1000 down the drain.

People work hard for their money. They don’t want to spend $10-$20 a pop for a shoddy product. You might get your friends and family and possibly a few others to buy a copy. But if the work is poor - you lose the possibility of turning those buyers into fans.

So in your budget for your writing business, be sure to include time and money to ensure your book is perfect prior to printing. Then you can turn each new reader into a fan for life.

So many freelance writers I talk to say they don’t own a business. “I’m a writer,” they say.

In actuality, being a freelance writer, whether fact or fiction is a business. And you are losing money every day you don’t treat it that way.

Just like any other entreprneur, you have to market yourself. You have to sell your skills to those you want to write for. Even if it’s a non-paying learning gig, to get your foot in the door or get clips for your portfolio.

You must hone your writing skill. Be consistently improving your spelling, grammar, and your writing craft. Take classes, learn to self-edit, get a writing coach. If you’re not at the top of your game, you are losing the gigs you want to other people.

Keep good records - just like any other entrepreneur. Keep track of the time you put in and for which project. Keep track of your expenses, keep receipts, and know how much it costs you to write an article, or a story on average. (This will happen over time.)

By keeping business records not only will you have a checks and balances system to know if you’re sinking more money into your craft than you’re getting out. More importantly, though, you will have accurate records to take proper deductions on your income taxes.