Crowdfunding. It's become such a popular and trendy step for entrepreneurs and small business to do yet many authors have no idea there is such a thing as crowdfunding campaign. Authors by nature, have to think like entrepreneurs whether they are collecting pre-orders, creating a publicity and marketing plan or increase sales.
Because there are so many authors and entrepreneurs nowadays publishing books, and small business who want to take their branding to the next level by publishing a book, I thought to take the liberty to interview Amanda Barbara of Pubslush who can explain how the Pubslush platform works specifically for authors like myself who want to spread the message of my memoir Accidental Soldier while raising funds for my campaign. How wonderful we authors have Pubslush to help build into and expand our already existing platforms and this interview will pinpoint the crowdfunding Pubslush platform for authors.
Dorit Sasson: What is crowdfunding and why is it so important for authors?
Amanda Barbara: Crowdfunding is the practice of funding a project or venture by raising many small amounts of money from a large number of people, typically via the Internet. Authors should use this tool to help mitigate financial risk, test the market, and gain sales for their book before release.
DS: Why and when did you create Pubslush?
AB: Pubslush launched in 2012 with the intention of helping self-published authors to produce higher quality books with more funds for editing, cover design, etc.
DS: How and when can aspiring authors start their own campaign for their book?
AB: We recommend an author start using our platform before the release of their book. If an author needs to raise funds for production, crowdfunding can take place up to a year before the book is released. If you have paid for your production and want to use this as a pre-order tool, we recommend 30 to 60 days prior to release.
DS: What are some of the components for a successfully funded campaign?
AB: Pre-campaign planning and marketing before a campaign launch is crucial for success. Also, making sure that before you announce your campaign to your extended network that you have 5 to 10 supporters lined up to give you the initial seed money. You don't want to promote a campaign that is at $0.
DS: How should an author emotionally prepare himself/herself for a Pubslush launch in terms of some of the hurdles and challenges?
AB: I think it may be hard on any crowdfunder once they realize that the people they thought would come and support their project, don't. And the individuals that they didn't expect to give, come out strong. Make sure you are genuine in your approach and make personal connections. Spammy pitch emails don't work. You need to make people understand that this project is your passion and every dollar helps.
DS: What are some of the ways aspiring authors can learn more about Pubslush?
AB: Of course they can email us for more information. Also, do you research and check out successful campaigns. Try and find similar projects to yours and use their rewards to inspire you. We have a great FAQ and blog filled with content that might be helpful as well.
DS: Is it true that if an author has a strong platform, will that help the campaign?
AB: Of course! The more you have done to grow your reader base prior to your campaign, the better you will be. I have seen authors be successful without a huge platform but they have used there current network and their network's network to raise awareness and support. It is a lot of work but the reward has the potential to be huge!
Thanks to Amanda Barbara for her insightful and informative answers for this interview. Although it's relatively a new concept, crowdfunding is definitely not something authors should overlook especially when they are trying to build a platform that will support their brand and business.