Lulu Press Center

5 Reasons Small Businesses Should Self-Publish a Book

RALEIGH, NC, August 3, 2011 – There are millions of small businesses across the country, and they are usually looking for a competitive edge. One option that could give them the leg up is having a book of their own, focused on their particular niche. Today, many small businesses are opting to self-publish, or open publish, their own book, and for good reason. 

“What small businesses are learning is that there are many benefits to having a book attributed to your company,” explains Bob Young, the chief executive officer of Lulu (www.lulu.com), an open publishing company. “It makes a great marketing tool that can help to increase business, among other helpful factors.”

Here are 5 reasons that small businesses should consider open publishing for their own book: 

1.    Marketing. Being able to hand someone a book is more powerful and memorable than giving them a brochure or business card. A book provides them with useful and/or interesting information that will help your company stick in their mind.

2.    Expertise. Every small business needs to be seen as an expert in its particular area. Having a book on that topic or niche is an effective way to establish a company or person as an expert in their field.

3.    Sales. Offering a book for sale adds another revenue stream for small businesses. They have the ability to market it to their customers and earn from each book sale.

4.    Taxes. Small businesses have the advantage of being able to claim a tax deduction for any expenses related to preparing the book for publication, such as editing, cover creation, etc.

5.    Extension. A book offers an extension of a person’s business. It will give customers the opportunity to learn more, and to do so when it is convenient for them. It is one more way to reach customers in a competitive world.

“The more ways that a business can connect to its customers, the better,” adds Young. “Having an open published book is just one more way for small businesses to put their name out there, make a connection, and establish themselves as experts. It’s a win-win situation.” 

Lulu’s open publishing format gives small-business authors the ability to publish everything from print and eBooks, to calendars and cookbooks, to photo books and mini books. The service is provided free and authors retain all rights, as well as 80 percent of all profit from sales. To learn more about using Lulu’s publishing tools, log onto www.lulu.com.

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