eBook Publishing Negotiations

When negotiating, you need to remember one key point: “You have the power if you have the ability to walk away!”

For example; our company owns hundreds of keyword rich domain names and occasionally we put a few up for sale. If we do not receive the price we want for the domain name then it won't bother us at all. If however, we were desperate for money to pay off bills then we may have no option but to accept whatever price we can get for that domain.

The same applies for any deals that you may do for your eBook. It may be negotiating royalties or selling your rights to your eBook. It may be negotiating the terms of a joint venture. If the terms don't suit you then you have the power if you have the ability to walk away!

How to Identify Your Best Negotiated Outcome for Your eBook:

1. What Negotiated Outcomes Would You Be Willing to Accept?

This is where you need to sit down and factor in all the time and costs associated with the writing and production of your eBook so that you can establish a break even point. This will be the minimum point to start in establishing what you want to receive.

Therefore, you need to write down what outcomes are acceptable to you and that will be set as the minimum terms:

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2. Of These Outcomes That Your Have Listed, Which One is The Most Ideal Outcome For You?

Obviously, you will want to obtain the best possible outcome. This is possible, but it will often come down to the perceived value of your eBook. It will come down to earnings potential and forecasted sales. This is where you have your ultimate outcome but also list outcomes that you would be happy to accept.

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3. What Are You Willing to Give Up or Negotiate in Return For That Outcome?

Are you willing to give up complete rights to your eBook?

Are you willing to accept a smaller percentage of royalties than the person your are negotiating with?

Are you will to give up full control of the editing, eCover design and marketing of your eBook?

What are you willing to give up or negotiate in return for that outcome?

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4. What Are Not You Willing to Give Up or Negotiate in Return For That Outcome?

There are just some things that you won't be prepared to give up. It is important to identify these before you start negotiating so that you know exactly what you want and exactly what rights you must retain.

As an eBook author, the power has now shifted in your favour through the advent of self-publishing. However, there are still many benefits associated with partnering with a publisher or service provider as long as you are happy with the terms and know that you have the ability to walk away from a deal that you see is not in your best interests to pursue.

What are not you willing to give up or negotiate in return for that outcome?

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5. Are There Any Ways That You Could Improve Your Best Offer Without Giving Up Your Rights?

There may be add-ons, additional eBooks, services, rights that you may be willing to offer in order to “sweeten” the deal. Maybe, you would agree to do the marketing for your eBook?

Are there any restrictions you are willing to remove in order to get the deal done?

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6. What is Your Final Offer That Will Be Proposed Based on All Your Facts and Requirements?

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