Whether you are a self-publishing author or you have a full-scale publisher working with you, there is no magic fairy dust you can sprinkle on a book to make it sell well. The fact is, there just is no substitute for rolling up your sleeves and working hard to market your book.
Having said that, these days internet marketing makes it is a lot easier to sell a book. There are excellent tools available on a variety of platforms. So, harness the internet and increase book sales from the comfort of your living room—or wherever you are working.
Here are a few tips to get you started!
Learn about social media
It’s true, social media takes time. That’s the common complaint. You will need to learn the protocol of each site. However, once you have these down, social media can be lots of fun! Just remember, you cannot market too overtly, or you will alienate people.
When you are active on social media, you will build relationships, help others and receive help in return. Now and then you just might find a new client! I’ve sold books through Twitter and Facebook, as well as LinkedIn. I have also received new writing clients through these websites.
It is worth your time to learn about social media. Which is your favorite site?
Blog to market your book
If you have a book, create a blog. Start writing articles that center around the concept of your project long before the book is even published. This will help you build credibility and create interest.
For instance, if you’re writing a book about the best games to play at children’s parties, start blogging about your own experiences. You can pull concepts from your book, but make sure you don’t just repeat what is there.
Instead, complement what you’ve written in your book with pictures and anecdotes that couldn’t fit in.
Try to blog two or three times a week. If that is too extreme, once a week will do. However, even if you only blog when you can, it will still help get your message out.
Seek reviewers
Find bloggers or professionals who are experts in your book’s subject and ask them to review your book. Start by Googling the topic and see what comes up.
Send the reviewer a free review copy of your book. There is no guarantee that the review will be favorable, but typically people will not print bad reviews. Instead, they will opt to decline.
You will need to follow up once you send the review copy. Keep in mind that people are busy, so they may forget about your book. It’s probably buried under a pile of papers, so you will need to nudge them. Do use good manners when doing so. Nobody likes to feel bullied into writing a review.
Never pay to have anyone review your book. It’s highly unethical and if you’re caught you will be penalized by the online store. Amazon is really cracking down on people posting faking reviews.
There are many fun ways to market your book. These are just a few suggestions. Talk to other authors and find out what they are doing. Look for the free options, since ads require a serious investment. Select creative promotional ideas that don’t cost anything. And don’t forget the tried-and-true methods like book signings and word-of-mouth. Every little bit helps.
If you’re a successful author, please share your marketing ideas. What worked well for you?
Additional articles you might find helpful:
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Ghostwriter?
Writing a Book Proposal
