Can a Self-Published Author Convert to a Hybrid Publisher to Get Greater Distribution and Book Sales?

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By Michael D. Butler, CEO of Beyond Publishing

Many authors who have gone the self-publishing route quickly realize something’s missing: bookstore distribution, professional marketing, and real sales growth. If that sounds like you, you’re not alone—and you’re not stuck. Yes, a self-published author can convert to a hybrid publishing model to get greater distribution and increase book sales. Here’s what that looks like, and how to do it.

Can a Self-Published Author Convert to a Hybrid Publisher to Get Greater Distribution and Book Sales?

📖 Meet “Jessica” – A Fictional but Familiar Story

Jessica published her memoir on Amazon through a self-publishing platform. She was proud—and rightfully so! But after 18 months, she had fewer than 150 sales. No bookstore placement. No foreign rights. And when she tried to pitch herself for media, no one took her seriously.

Jessica turned to a reputable hybrid publisher—Beyond Publishing—and things changed quickly. Her book was professionally repackaged, edited, and given a global ISBN with full distribution to bookstores. It was pitched at book fairs, placed in international catalogs, and translated into Spanish and French. Within 9 months, her book sold over 2,000 copies, and she began booking paid speaking gigs around the message of her book.

Why Self-Publishing Alone Isn’t Always Enough

Self-publishing platforms like Amazon KDP are great for speed and control. But:

You’re responsible for everything: editing, cover design, marketing, and distribution.
Your book typically gets limited reach (Amazon only = limited audience).
There’s no sales team, no industry connections, and no bookstore placement.

It’s a great launchpad—but most self-published books plateau quickly.

What a Hybrid Publisher Can Do for a Self-Published Author

Here’s how converting to a hybrid publisher can change the game:

✅ Professional Repackaging – Better cover, tighter editing, cleaner layout.
✅ ISBN Transfer & Metadata Optimization – Industry-level backend to boost visibility.
✅ Bookstore and Library Distribution – Not just Amazon. Real retail.
✅ International Rights Representation – Sell your book in other countries and languages.
✅ Event and Media Pitching – Hybrid publishers help authors get booked and featured.
✅ Credibility – A strong hybrid publisher gives your book legitimacy and positioning.

How to Make the Switch

Assess your current assets: What rights do you still own? Do you have editable files?
Find the right hybrid publisher: Vet their track record, speak to other authors.
Rebrand or relaunch your book: This may include a new title, subtitle, or cover.
Transfer ISBN if necessary: Most hybrid publishers will issue a new ISBN for global reach.
Leverage the relaunch for PR: A re-release is a newsworthy event—use it to create buzz.

Red Flags to Avoid

🚩 Vanity presses that charge high fees but offer no distribution.
🚩 No real marketing plan beyond “listing it online.”
🚩 No global reach or foreign rights program.
🚩 No bookstore representation at book fairs (Frankfurt, London, etc.).

Why Authors Make the Switch

Increased visibility: Get seen in bookstores, catalogs, and events.
Higher earnings potential: Especially through bulk sales and speaking.
Team support: You’re not alone in editing, promoting, or selling.

Final Thoughts

If your goal is legitimacy, reach, and sales, then converting from self-publishing to a reputable hybrid publisher is one of the best steps you can take.

Hybrid publishing is the middle ground between DIY self-publishing and traditional publishing. It combines control and ownership with professional support and market access.

Jessica did it. So can you.

📌 About Beyond Publishing

Beyond Publishing is a global full-service hybrid publishing company helping authors in 67+ countries get their books written, professionally published, and into worldwide distribution. With a 4.9-star rating and 845+ titles published, Beyond Publishing helps authors turn their message into a movement with media exposure, global rights representation, and speaking opportunities.

📅 Jump on our calendar to speak with a Book Publishing Expert about your book. GetPublished.BeyondPublishing.net

Can a Self-Published Author Convert to a Hybrid Publisher to Get Greater Distribution and Book Sales?