Becoming an Independent Author - A Step-by-Step Guide with Ian Hooper (Leschenault Press)

This 6-week course takes you from concept to published author with actionable steps at every stage. You’ll learn to:

• Publish in Multiple Formats: Create professional-quality paperbacks, e-books, and audio books using POD platforms.
• Market and Distribute Globally: Use multi-channel strategies to reach readers worldwide and gain insights on managing your author copies.
• Design and Format for Success: Understand cover design and formatting essentials that make your book stand out.
• Navigate Tax and Legal Essentials: Set up your accounts and manage international tax and legal requirements smoothly.
• Receive Direct Support: Benefit from live Q&A sessions and insider tips from Ian’s years in the industry.

Week 1: Introduction to Self-Publishing & Print-On-Demand (POD)

Jan 29, 2025 1pm AEDT / 12pm AEST / 10am AWST

Overview:

• Explore the world of independent publishing and discover how print-on-demand technology has revolutionised the publishing industry.

Key Takeaways:

• A clear understanding of the self-publishing process
• The ability to select the right publishing platforms for your book

Week 2: Account Setup and Preparation

Feb 5, 2025 1pm AEDT / 12pm AEST / 10am AWST

Overview:

Learn how to establish your author accounts on leading platforms, navigate international requirements, and prepare for your publishing journey

Key Takeaways:

• Step-by-step knowledge for setting up publishing accounts
• Confidence in managing tax and technical details

Week 3: Designing a Book Fit for Publication

Feb 12, 2025 1pm AEDT / 12pm AEST / 10am AWST

Overview:

Gain insights into professional book design, from formatting your manuscript to creating a cover that captures readers' attention.

Key Takeaways:

• Skills to format and prepare your manuscript for publication
• Tips for creating a standout, professional book cover

Week 4: E-Book Creation & Digital Publishing

Feb 19, 2025 1pm AEDT / 12pm AEST / 10am AWST

 Overview:

Discover how to transform your manuscript into a digital format and publish it as an e-book across popular platforms.

Key Takeaways:

• The ability to create and upload a polished e-book
• A solid understanding of digital publishing tools

Week 5: Expanding to Audio Books & Distribution Strategies

Feb 26, 2025 1pm AEDT / 12pm AEST / 10am AWST

Overview:

Explore the audio book market and learn strategies to distribute your book globally, ensuring it reaches the widest audience possible.

Key Takeaways:

• An understanding of the audio book production process
• Effective strategies for distributing and maximising sales

Week 6: Marketing, Legal Considerations & Open Q&A

Mar 5, 2025 1pm AEDT / 12pm AEST / 10am AWST

Overview:

Wrap up your journey with expert insights into marketing your book, navigating legal requirements, and getting your final questions answered.

Key Takeaways:

• A personalised marketing plan to promote your book
• A comprehensive understanding of legal essentials and copyright

Each week provides practical assignments to reinforce learning, ensuring participants leave ready to launch their book confidently. This comprehensive course gives authors all they need to publish independently and make their mark in the industry.

Presenter:

Ian Hooper - Executive Director Leschenault Press

Ian Hooper is a former Royal Air Force intelligence officer. After "retiring" from the UK Military in 2004 he established a training and consultancy business in Western Australia. A decade of training State Government and major oil and gas clients followed and eventually he headed up a team providing instructional design for Chevron's multi-billion-dollar Gorgon Project.

In 2014, his first novel was published and since 2015 he has been executive director of independent publisher, Leschenault Press and its main hybrid imprint, The Book Reality Experience. He is now a full-time author, editor and ghost-writer and is acknowledged as an expert within the independent author arena.

He holds qualifications in management, training and learning design as well as an MA in Creative Writing and is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management.

Please Note:

• Registrations close 27 January 2025
• This is an AITD or NZATD member only benefit
• Each session will run for 1 hour and will be recorded)
• Time listed is AEDT
• Please note that Zoom links will be emailed to registered attendees one day prior to the course commencement.

By registering for this course, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions.