Thursday, July 19, 2012

#SellingYourBooksToForeignMarkets

Today I had a question from a client, asking about selling her books in other countries. I highly support that initiative. The more languages your book appears in, all the better. Your message, or your solutions to problems, or your ideas are valid in any country. All that is required is an accurate translation.


When I first saw my book published in Polish, it was a surreal experience. The book looked familiar, yet it didn't, but it was exciting! 


Having your book published in other countries gives you great credibility, especially with the media. They don't want to miss out on a good thing: it is easier to get reviews on your home turf if your book has also sold in foreign languages.


The drawbacks to selling your books in other countries are this: how can you possibly do publicity, organize distribution and find target market buyers in another country in an unfamiliar language? There is no way. You just cannot. Therein lies the value of a foreign rights agent - a person who specializes in selling intellectual rights in other countries and in other languages. 


There are times when hiring an expert is just smart, especially in areas where you do not have the expertise or the resources to manage on your own. You will save yourself much money, time and grief by working with an agent who is more knowledgeable and are more efficient than you are.


The best news is that when hiring a foreign rights agent there are very few costs to you. You pay only a small representation fee. After that, if your book is attractive to foreign publishers, you just collect money. Is there a better deal? I don't think so. You may not make large sums of money from each transaction, but how much would you have profited if you did not sell your foreign rights? Here is the formula for what you would have made: 100% of 0 = 0.


So, nothing ventured, nothing gained.


Denise


www.inktreemarketing.com
www.publishacookbook.com



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