By: Carla Trueheart
At The Steps to Getting Published, we post a lot of articles on the writing process and the publishing industry. However, we wanted to take a few minutes to talk about the importance of book marketing after the publishing process is complete. In fact, it might even be a good idea to start thinking about book marketing and promotion before your novel hits the bookshelves. Arguably, promoting a book amid millions of other new releases is the most difficult part of the publishing process. That’s why it’s good to know all you can about selling a novel in today’s competitive book market. Below, we’ve included a dozen tips on book marketing. You may have heard of some of these options, or maybe some are new to you as a writer. As always, please let us know any questions you have, and above all, don’t give up on your writing dream!
1. Social Media
In today’s technological world, the easiest way to spread the word about a new book release is through social media. Start early. If you don’t already, set up Twitter and Facebook accounts, and you might also consider a Pinterest account, LinkedIn, Google Plus, and even Snapchat and Instagram. Gathering a following on these platforms is crucial when it comes to book promos. This way, you can announce to your followers everything from book release dates to giveaways to personal appearances/book signings.
Tip: When posting on Twitter, don’t forget the hashtags. Here is a link to some popular ones:
2. Personal Website
Now that you have social media set up, make sure each one links back to your personal website. You can easily set up a website for free, or perhaps opt to use GoDaddy or another website service that might offer more creative options. On the first page of your website, make sure you have photos of your book and links to buy the book right there. Do not make a potential reader hunt down the book—make it as easy as possible to buy right then and there. You might also consider a fun theme for your webpage that carries through all the pages (one that hopefully connects to the theme of your novel too), as well as adding a personal bio and picture of yourself to make connections with readers.
Tip: Some quick website elements to consider: name of book, picture of cover, synopsis, author bio, contact info, ordering info, newsfeed, giveaways, book awards, press releases, book trailers, book reviews/praise, free samples.
3. Author Newsletter
Now that you have your personal website set up, don’t forget to post a sign-up link for your newsletter! If possible, add the newsletter sign-up right on the first page of your website. This way, people are more likely to see it and sign up while on your site. Remember, people are rushed nowadays and may not make it to other pages on your website—make sure everything is on the front page (without crowding the page, of course). Through monthly newsletters, you can reach your readers and discuss your release dates, upcoming projects, and other important information about your books.
Tip: You might also consider adding something special for readers in your newsletter—something just for them. Perhaps you can include recipes, writing/inspirational quotes, or even fun facts that connect to your book’s plot or theme.
4. Goodreads
Another important website for authors is Goodreads. One extremely useful service Goodreads offers is free book giveaways. Set your book up for a giveaway and watch readers add it to their Goodreads bookshelves! Also, make sure you set up your author profile with Goodreads. Other advantages of Goodreads include the ability to send out author updates, a way to gather up friends and followers, quizzes and quotes to gain enthusiasm for your book, and even marketing tools (a small promo you can buy with a picture of your book cover and a few synopsis sentences). Spend some time on the site and use it to your advantage!
Tip: Also check out LibraryThing, a similar site.
5. Giveaways
Now that you have the idea for giveaways from Goodreads, let’s see if you can make up a few cool and unique giveaways of your own. It’s highly recommended that you base your giveaway around the theme of your book. For example, my last book release revolved around a Tupperware bowl buried in the 1980s by a group of childhood friends making a friendship pact. For my giveaway, the prize was a vintage Tupperware bowl loaded up with surprise goodies (I also included bookmarks and other promotional items).
Tip: Figure out what makes your book unique and structure your giveaway around that theme. Make sure to announce the giveaway on ALL social media and your newsletters!
6. Amazon Author Central
Your readers will want to learn all about you on your Amazon page, and the page also serves as a selling opportunity as it lists all your published works. Like Goodreads, Amazon also runs giveaways with contest-like entries. Check that out here: https://www.amazon.com/giveaway/
Tip: Make sure you include your bio on your Amazon page and update it frequently.
7. Book Marketing Sites (Just Kindle Books, BookBaby, BargainBooksy, Freebooksy, Book of the Day, Readers’ Favorite, etc.)
As a new author, I was surprised at just how important it was to feature your book on one of these sites. My book sales rose substantially whenever I would run an ad through a book marketing site (make sure they have a huge following and are legit, of course). Yes, there’s a fee, but in many cases, you will get that amount back plus more through the bumped up book sales throughout the day your book is featured.
Tip: Entering your book in a contest such as the yearly Readers’ Favorite awards, and winning any prize, will also add interest to your book, so give it a try (again, make sure the contest is legit).
8. Get Out There: Word of Mouth/Public Appearance/Book Signings/Free Books/Book Release Party
If you’re an outgoing person, you might consider setting up book readings at your local library, or even running meetings in your town and speaking on the writing process. Make sure you mention your published book (and have copies available to sell), and be sure to share helpful writing and publishing tips that you’ve learned along the way. Of course, book signings are the traditional way to meet readers, so set up as many of these as you can fit into your schedule. Make sure you have pens, promotional items, and plenty of books on hand at the signings. Book release parties are also a good idea if you know a lot of people and can fill a rented room (advertise free treats and giveaways). Also, do not discount word of mouth advertising. Yes, you may have to give away boatloads of books for free, but people like to talk about things they enjoy, and soon, the word will get around about your fantastic book!
Tip: It’s a bit old-school, but sending out postcards and media flyers through the mail will help to spread the word, too. Also, consider small fairs and festivals around your town. You might be able to set up a table there and sell your books to fairgoers.
9. Offer Free Book Galleys/Advance Book Copies
When your book is in the editing phase, you’ll likely receive galley copies. These are proofs of your book just before it hits the printing press. You might consider handing out these copies to readers as incentive, so readers will be sure to buy the actual print copy when the book is released. Better yet, run giveaways for the galleys. Also, ask readers to send over a book review, even a short one, as these can be used as book blurbs at release time. Finally, offer advance book copies to followers through giveaways or to those interested in being a “first reader.”
Tip: It’s a good idea to gather up as many book reviews as you can before the book even hits the shelves. Post these on your website and on book covers, if possible.
10. Relationships
Most likely, you’ve formed strong relationships with other writers during your early writing years. This might happen through writing workshops, schools, libraries, or online. If you feel comfortable, ask these writer friends to support you by sharing your book release info and book links on their social media pages. You might also consider asking friends and relatives to do the same, as this does branch out to include many potential readers. Also, make sure to befriend other published authors at your publishing house.
Tip: Authors can help each other out through providing book reviews and sponsoring huge book giveaways. Readers love to win bundles of books!
11. Blog/Podcast/Vlog
Don’t underestimate the value of a good blog, even if it’s not a blog in which you’re planning to make a profit. The value lies in the pull—you’ll draw readers to your blog, they will enjoy your writing and your help in whatever subject you’re blogging about, and will eventually want to buy your books when they are released. Keep an author bio on your blog so they know who you are and what you’re attempting to do with your writing career. Likewise, a good podcast or vlog (video blog/YouTube Channel) will get your information out there. Be creative!
Tip: If possible, start blogging long before your book is published. That way, you will already have readers in place!
12. Be Good
This might seem like a no-brainer, but please make sure, especially if you’re self-publishing, that you’re putting out a quality book. Have the book professionally edited, the book cover professionally designed, and write a unique yet accessible story. If you’re working with a publisher, make sure the contract is as you want it, and don’t settle for a fast, lackluster release. You put the time in to write the story, so make sure the end result is exactly as you’d dreamed. Make it so good that readers will be clambering for your next release!
Tip: Time release dates to the theme of your book. For example, romance might best be released in the springtime, literary fiction during the summer high reading months, horror/paranormal/thrillers around Halloween, and mystery in the winter.
We hope these marketing tips help you, and please feel free to ask us any questions you might have in the comment section below!
