There is no substitute for a professional editor, designer, marketer, etc.
Ben Belding, Tellwell Publishing Consultant
Tell us about your role at Tellwell.
My role as a publishing consultant is to support prospective authors during the first steps toward self-publishing. My first priority is to present them with all necessary resources, so that they may make an informed decision that suits their projects, families, and budgets. By taking the time to understand their needs and assess their intentions, I do my very best to ensure that the services they choose are appropriate for their book project(s) and, when required, recommend options that may be more suited to their project. I am always excited for the first chat with a new author. It’s a great opportunity to meet interesting, creative minds and develop relationships with people from all different backgrounds! It’s pretty neat to work in an industry where the young, the elderly, and everyone in between are on a level playing field. It’s especially rewarding to see their work go from an idea to fruition.
What attracted you to the indie publishing industry?
I needed a change of pace in my life and career. I felt that I had left behind the real, creative me. When considering my options for a change, I narrowed it down to three possibilities: books, board games, or outdoor activities! One thing led to another, and here I am.
How would you describe your personality?
I am generally outgoing and work well in a team, but I also relish the time I spend alone in the woods or one on one with friends, family, and colleagues.
What is the biggest misconception authors interested in self-publishing have about the industry?
This is a tough one. The first thing that comes to mind is the skepticism on the value of services offered. E.g., “I think I’ll skip the edit and just get someone I know to edit it.” In my experience, there is no substitute for a professional editor, designer, marketer, etc.
What advice do you have for new authors who are considering self-publishing?
It’s a big, scary decision, and deserves tons of consideration. You have poured your heart and soul into your work and are about to share it with the world. Will you become a bestselling author? Will people like your story? There’s only one way to find out!
That being said, in the end, the only thing that matters is that you are happy with your work. It takes guts to put yourself out there, and regardless of the outcome you will be proud of your accomplishment.
Describe your approach to working with authors.
I guess you could call it an informative approach. No author should sign on with Tellwell unless they are comfortable with our costs, services, and approach. I feel that the best way to ensure this is to provide as much information up front as possible so that they can make the best decision for themselves, their family, and their project.
What is one of your most memorable moments with Tellwell? Have any authors really stuck with you?
I love working with well-researched authors, those that come prepared with a laundry list of questions. It keeps me on my toes!
There are so many authors who’ve stuck with me, some great conversations and some challenging ones. I don’t know that I can single out a moment, so I’ll take the cheesy route here and say that every day is memorable at Tellwell.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Family and friends are number one. When I am not hanging out with my wife, I like to spend my time in the garage or outdoors keeping my hands busy. Building stuff, tinkering with vehicles, fishing, camping, and that kind of stuff. I also enjoy a good cup of coffee (and other beverages), board games, and books.
Would you like to add anything else?
Two things for all the prospective authors out there:
- Take your time and enjoy the process.
- Market your book! Whether it’s in conjunction with a marketing team or on your own. Nobody will read your book if they can’t find it!
