Your publishing name and logo

A publishing name separates you-the-author from you-the-publisher.
Three benefits to creating a publishing name and logo.

Many authors choose a publishing name when self-publishing their book. Your publishing name can be your own name, a business name, or a corporation. For example, if I self-published a book, I might choose "Raven Books" or "Raven Publishing Ltd." as my publishing name. Of course, I would first need to make sure the name was not already in use, and then register the name through the appropriate government authority.

Benefits of having a publishing name and logo

Makes your book look professional. A sure sign of a do-it-yourself book is the missing publishing logo on the spine. Check your local bookstore, and you'll see what I mean.

Creates a publishing business. Your publishing business prints books, keeps an inventory of books and generates sales. Your business may also purchase computer and office equipment, and contract help with marketing and fulfillment. In the future, you may wish to sell your publishing business, or have someone else manage it. It can be taxed separately.

Creates an identity for your publisher. Your publishing logo will appear on the spine, back cover and copyright page of your book. It can also appear on your title page and order form. You'll want it on your business cards, marketing materials and website, as well as all your business correspondence including letters, faxes and invoices. This helps create an identity that people will recognize, remember and associate with your business.

Keep your logo simple

Your publishing logo should be simple and easy to recognize (even after faxing). If you choose a color logo, also get a black and white version made to use for faxing and photocopying.