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There are many reasons authors may choose to self-publish their work. However, if an author plans on actively selling their book, a well-defined marketing strategy is essential. Wordclay provides an excellent Web page on developing a marketing plan at http://www.wordclay.com/BookMarketing.aspx .
In addition, Chances Press offers a few tips that authors may find helpful.
- What's your book's hook? In other words, define what sets your book apart from the competition. Is it the setting? A topic that hasn't been explored much? A unique plot? Be prepared with a one sentence answer for when you are inevitably asked, "What's your book about?"
- Set clearly defined realistic sales goals and a plan to achieve them. One idea is to decide how you plan to get the word out about your book to sell the first 100 copies. Once you sell 100 copies, up your sales goal to 500, and then 1,000. At each step, plan what you want to do to take your book to the next level. One of the perks of self-publishing is the option to keep you book on the market indefinitely to give it the chance to build an audience and word of mouth.
- It's all about content, content, content. No matter how great your cover is, no matter how many press releases you send out, or much ad space you plan to purchase, a poorly edited book riddled with typos is the fastest way to doom your future sales. Reader word of mouth is powerful. Your finished book is your final product. Make sure it is well-edited. Wordclay offers a la carte editing services through their Services Store.
- Create an author Web page to promote you and your book. Include an e-mail address for readers to contact you with their opinion of your book. It's a great way to begin to develop an e-mail list. Just don't spam your readers. Contact them sparingly and with a true purpose. Offer something free to readers on your Web site, such as a signed promotional bookmark or postcard. Readers truly appreciate it when an author takes the time to acknowledge them, and this helps breed reader loyalty. If you can, include a couple of extra bookmarks or postcards. Readers may pass these on to friends increasing your word of mouth promotion. Include links to online stores where readers may purchase your book, like the Wordclay Bookstore. As an author, you want to make it as easy as possible for a reader to shop for your title!
- Become actively involved not just as a writer but as a reader. Join local book groups and online reader forums for your genre, such as Google or Yahoo Groups, to spread word of your title.
- Support independent bookstores in your area. They may be more willing to take a chance on a local writer by stocking your book, hosting a signing, or allowing you to leave behind promotional materials, such as bookmarks or postcards.
- Enter your book in writing competition and awards. For example:
- Finally, believe in yourself and your book!
The above information is provided for informational purposes only. Authors are encouraged to explore and research all of their marketing options. Help us help authors. If any of the above links are broken, please notify us at info@chancespress.com.
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