Once an author has written and published a book, he or she needs to market it well and achieve a high number of sales. To do this, there are now many online outlets to assist with promotional needs, but beware of promotion scams. The best promotion truly is free.
Word of Mouth
It takes time and effort to create a good reputation and credibility as a bookseller, publisher and author. It is an uphill road, but with the aid of the internet, it is one that modern authors now have a good backing for. Social websites like Facebook, Bebo, and Twitter can offer free accounts for both the author and the book itself, allowing for both to update the world with postings and tit bits of information.
Joining on-line groups that relate to the book’s subject will also help spread the word for free. All the on-line supports will also ensure ample reading when the author posts a press release.
- Social websites can create a buzz over a book and spread the word
- Find online groups that reflect the book’s topics and post updates regularly
- Get friends and relatives to write reviews
- Post at least one free copy to an appropriate journal who can write a professional review (this can also be part of the press release)
- Write a press release
Magazines and Newspapers
Nearly every topic imaginable will have a magazine or trade journal for professionals who deal in the subject or have an interest. These magazines will not only have reader letters, but news snippets and articles to keep readers informed and up to date. Why not write an article about the book or submit an excerpt chapter for them to publish?
Contact every radio station that covers local news and ask them for a promotional interview. Also phone around local news stations and ask if they will do a small feature on a new local author and cover a bit of the book’s subject.
- Contact every local paper and journal, find the appropriate contact and e-mail a press release
- Phone radio stations that cover local news and ask about a promotional slot
- e-mail a trade journal or magazine and find out about writing an article that features the book
It will take time to build a reputation, but with a steady approach, it is possible. Some self-published books have made it to the bestseller lists by following a rigorous promotional approach, proving that those who put the effort in will be rewarded for their efforts.
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