As speech-language pathologists, we spend much of our careers working with patients — but that’s far from the only professional achievement we’re capable of. Many SLPs offer coaching, write books, and create materials to help other newcomers in the field. 

Tsgoyna Tanzman, the most recent guest on The Missing Link for SLPs podcast, is an author and a coach. Her book, “Hope After Stroke for Caregivers and Survivors: The Holistic Guide to Getting Your Life Back Edition,” expands upon the work she’s done in the medical SLP world. During her appearance on the podcast, she dove into the process of writing and self-publishing it.

For other SLPs considering writing a book, self-publishing might be something to look into. While there are pros and cons to both traditional and self-publishing, the latter offers more control and freedom. Here are some of the upsides to going that route.

The Timeline Is Up to You

Publishing a book the traditional way can take a long time, and authors typically have little say in the timeline. Even if you’re quick to write and edit your book, publishers determine when it’s released. They may prolong processes like editing and finding a cover, and the release date could be years from when you submit your manuscript.

With self-publishing, you’re in control of everything from the release date to how long you spend on each step. If you’re eager to get your work into the world, self-publishing may be your best bet.

You’re in Charge of Marketing

There’s not much authors have complete control over in the traditional publishing world, but self-publishing puts you in the driver’s seat. That’s especially useful for marketing, since you decide how much to put toward advertising your book — and what mediums you’ll use to do so.

You Don’t Need to Sacrifice the Important Stuff

Self-publishing has gained traction in recent years, and authors are realizing that going this route doesn’t necessarily mean putting out a lower-quality product. In fact, you can choose your editor, hire a cover artist, and track down beta readers for your book. There’s no need to sacrifice on the tactics traditional publishing uses to put out top-notch publications. You can use the same strategies to make your book the best it can be.

Write the Book You Want to Write

Perhaps the most beneficial aspect of self-publishing is that authors can write the books they want to write without asking permission or altering their vision. While editing and implementing feedback is important, the reality is that authors who embrace self-publishing make the final call on what goes into their book and what it’s about. That alone is well worth the extra effort of bringing it to market on your own.

Want to learn more about Tsgoyna and her journey to becoming an SLP? Listen to her and Mattie chat on The Missing Link for SLPs Podcast.

Did you know Mattie provides coaching to SLPs? Learn more here.