Interview With Ryan Sheehan from Yorkshire Publishing

Lucas: What is in the name? Why Yorkshire Publishing?


Ryan: Yorkshire, England was the site of many revolutionary ideas and groups throughout the history of the British Isles. Yorkshire Publishing is leading the charge in changing the way in which individuals think about publishing. The power of the individual author, through Social Media, global connections, and informed choices has created a world in which the power of the major traditional publisher is waning. Yorkshire Publishing seeks to break the publishing paradigm of the past and put the power into the hands of those who bring their work to light. We are seeking to democratize the publishing industry though honesty, helpful information and assistance to the world’s authors.



Lucas: Do you ever get requests from writers to publish their book for free?


Ryan: Yes, we do. There is an amazing level of talent in the world, and we wish we could bring every great idea to the marketplace. Unfortunately, limited resources are the bane of the publishing industry.


While there are many paths to choose from when it comes to publishing, many individuals do not take the time to consider the options that they have to create a publishing budget. From stretching the publication process out over several months, to bringing in friends and family to invest in your enterprise, there are a multitude of options to consider and I invite those who have an interest to contact me.



Lucas: Does Yorkshire have any plans to set up a fund or program for young / aspiring writers?


Ryan: Not yet, though that is always a possibility. Through our website however, you can access our blogs, facebook fan page, and online radio show. We focus on educating the writing public about their options, and we will always provide feedback for free.



Lucas: Who would you say your services are geared towards? What kind of writer or style?


Ryan: We have services for almost any type of author. From first time writer to established author, we can assist with Editing, Design and Marketing of their book. We have staff who specialize in Fiction, Non-fiction and Children’s books, so we can meet the needs of as many different types of authors as possible.




Lucas: Do you believe that self-publishing or print on demand authors have the ability to become successful in their endeavors and how?


Ryan: Yes, and it follows the same steps as a Traditionally Published author. Review Copies to opinion makers and development of a platform to educate the public and media about your book are the two primary ways to set your book up for success. No matter if you self or traditionally publish, the process takes time and energy. Many authors think that once they sign a contract with a traditional publisher, they are finished, but the time demands on any successful author are significant.



Lucas: Do you think traditional publishing companies direct writing trends in order to maintain market share?


Ryan: I think they invest in authors who they see as viable commercial enterprises. A traditional publisher is simply an investor in the publication process. Like any investor, they want to see a return on their investment. Vampires may be hot now, but I expect that somewhere a market analyst is investigating the newest trend and looking for authors who fit that mold.



Lucas: Are traditional publishing houses worried about companies like Yorkshire Publishing?


Ryan: I do not think that Traditional Publisher’s will die off, but the power of a self published individual is definitely growing. Someone who has the speaking platform or name recognition that is demanded of a traditional publisher is going to sell books no matter what. The unknown, but still excellent writer’s power to reach the masses grows every day. Social Media allows someone to reach a global audience from their living room, and a self published individual can always be picked up by a traditional publishing house.


The old model was: find an agent > find a small publisher > large publisher

The new model is: self publish > build a platform > maybe traditionally publish


A traditional publisher is going to demand significant amounts of the net revenue, but a self published author can keep their intellectual property and receive 100% of the net revenue…which would you choose?



Lucas: Do you provide marketing services for your authors?


Ryan: We do, and we work toward identifying the needs of the individual author. We understand the, like all our authors, their projects are different. We seek to create a customized marketing plan for every author we have. The best way to reach and grab the attention of Opinion Makers and Book Buyers is through the use of Review Copies. We often use this tactic, as part of a broader strategy, in order to reach the author’s target audience.



Lucas: What kind of treatment can a writer expect when working with Yorkshire Publishing?


Ryan: Our professional staff are in place to not only meet our author’s needs, but anticipate ways in which we can make their experience exceptional. Personal, one-on-one service defines the way in which we meet and exceed the expectations of our authors. Our goal is to see them succeed, and we go the extra mile to see that happen.



Lucas: What would you say it takes to become an amazing author besides having great content?


Ryan: An author’s speaking platform is second only to the Content and Design of his or her book. The use of Social Media, Book Signings, Press Releases, Media Appearances and other events strengthen the author’s ability to reach potential book buyers, both Wholesale and Retail. Some authors believe that once their book is in print, they can set back and let the checks come in, but the sales of the book only come through effort and hard work. It is important to have a strong Marketing Plan in place before going to press in order to set your book on a foundation on success.



Lucas: Can you give any advice to our aspiring authors?


Ryan: Edit your book. The best designed cover, marketing plan and speaking platform is nothing if the content of your book is mediocre. A decent book can become great with the assistance of a professional editor. If you are going to pursue the Traditional or Self-published path, you still need to have your manuscript professionally edited.



Lucas: Do you think that having confidence in yourself and your writing is key to being successful?


Ryan: Absolutely. You have to believe in your product before anyone will believe in you. Write what you know, and show your passion for it. The best writers are often the most passionate about their subject material.



Lucas: Can you briefly go over the various services Yorkshire Publishing offers?


Ryan: Editing, Design, and Marketing…details are on our website: yorkshirepublishing.com



Lucas: I would like to thank Ryan for his time and honesty. It was my pleasure to interview him and I hope the process was painless for him as well.