{"id":651,"date":"2019-11-15T07:01:53","date_gmt":"2019-11-15T07:01:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.clippings.me\/blog\/?p=651"},"modified":"2019-11-18T04:36:49","modified_gmt":"2019-11-18T04:36:49","slug":"13-tips-for-promoting-your-book","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.clippings.me\/blog\/13-tips-for-promoting-your-book\/","title":{"rendered":"Your Killer Book Marketing Plan: 13 Things to Consider"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>With more than <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.worldometers.info\/books\/\" target=\"_blank\">2.2 million books<\/a> published each year, and about 300,000 of these published in the United States alone, it is imperative to craft a book marketing plan that will effectively promote your book \u2013 simply writing a good book is not enough anymore!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Explore our top book marketing plan suggestions below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Know Your Budget<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Determine how much <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.janefriedman.com\/book-marketing-budget\/\" target=\"_blank\">money<\/a> you\u2019re willing to spend on executing your book marketing plan. Obviously, the more money you have, the more you can do. For instance, you\u2019ll need money to host your own website, have the cover art or a trailer made, and to launch online and billboard ads.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Start Early<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You don\u2019t need to wait until the book is finished: You can start promoting your book while it\u2019s still in the writing or editing stages. It can take some time to generate traction, so the earlier you start, the better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Build an Author Website<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Build a website around your identity <a href=\"https:\/\/www.clippings.me\/blog\/write-an-author-bio\/\">as an author<\/a> rather than the book you\u2019re writing. People are more likely to read your book if they feel like they know you as a person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can start the website even if you don\u2019t\nhave any published books yet. Share your thoughts, your process, and even some\nsnippets of your writing. Ask for feedback. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tips for building an author\nwebsite<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Get a domain name.<\/li><li>Follow the latest <a href=\"https:\/\/www.smithpublicity.com\/2015\/10\/seo-guidelines-for-building-your-author-website\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">SEO <\/a>techniques.<\/li><li>Make it personal.<\/li><li>Link to your social media accounts.<\/li><li>Link to a page where readers can buy your books. <\/li><li>When applicable, sell <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smithpublicity.com\/2015\/11\/merchandising-ideas-for-authors\/\" target=\"_blank\">merchandise <\/a>for your books. <\/li><li>Give your audience a space to discuss your books and a method to contact you.<\/li><li>Keep the design clean and simple.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Readers love seeing \u201cbehind the scenes\u201d. A website can generate curiosity around your current work, and give your audience a platform to find and interact with you. It also helps you test the waters, see how people respond to your ideas with minimum financial risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Know Your Audience (And Where to Find Them)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you think your book is \u201cwritten for everyone\u201d, this advice is for you. Knowing who your audience is can help you make better decisions, not just with promoting but even in the writing process. In fact (as any marketer will tell you), you&#8217;ll struggle to create an effective book marketing plan without knowing your target audience, because you won&#8217;t be able to craft messages that really resonate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you already have a book (or more)\npublished, this should be easy enough. Search who is reading your book on\nsocial media, book reviewing websites, and even forums. Chances are, these are\nthe same people who will be interested in your newer creation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If this is your first book, look up the\naudience of similar titles. This could include books with a similar genre or\ntopic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To know your audience, determine their\ndemographic characteristics (including age, gender, ethnicity, etc.) Find out\nwhere this demographic hangs out (whether in a physical location or a\nparticular website), and devote your marketing plan to that place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, think about who is buying the book, rather than who the book is for. For example, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ingramspark.com\/blog\/three-keys-to-marketing-childrens-books\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">children\u2019s books<\/a> are meant for kids, but you need to build your marketing plan to target their parents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Put Together a Mailing List<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Offer something on your website in exchange\nfor a subscription to an email newsletter. It could be a small book, access to\na forum or early release material, or even a book or merchandise giveaway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you get those email addresses, try to craft a <a href=\"https:\/\/booklaunch.com\/email-marketing-101-for-authors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">newsletter <\/a>that\u2019s informative. It could simply be a way to notify your readers of new blog posts, events you\u2019ll be attending (such as speaking events or book signings), release dates, or any updates to your website. Give them insider information and tips on something that\u2019s interesting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Newsletters are a good way to keep your name constantly on people\u2019s minds. Don\u2019t compromise your audience\u2019s trust by sending them repetitive or irrelevant spam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Use Social Media<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Social media can make you seem more accessible and personable, which encourages people to buy your book. Your page is a place where you can make announcements, <a href=\"https:\/\/kindlepreneur.com\/social-media-for-writers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">build a following<\/a>, and let them discuss your work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You don\u2019t need to be on every platform. Focus on the platforms that your target audience may be using, and prioritize quality over quantity of posts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Secure Book Endorsements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Be proactive in getting people interested in your book. If there\u2019s another author (or expert) whose name would look great in your marketing campaign, you can reach out to them with a copy of your book and ask for an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.standoutbooks.com\/how-to-get-book-endorsements\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">endorsement<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If it works, you may get exposure on their social media platforms, a quote to add to the cover, or even a <a href=\"https:\/\/self-publishingschool.com\/foreword\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">foreword<\/a>. You also can get multiple endorsements from different authors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make sure that you have the potential endorser\u2019s personal contact information, and try to <a href=\"https:\/\/self-publishingschool.com\/book-endorsements\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">build a real connection with them<\/a>. It may feel awkward reaching out to people in this way (especially if they\u2019re famous), but if you\u2019re genuinely interested in their work, they could be willing to return your enthusiasm. You never know until you try.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Find Reviewers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Early reviews can instill confidence and\nencourage people to read your book. However, don\u2019t expect the reviews to keep\nrolling in out of nowhere. You have to do some work, at least in the beginning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have a decent following on your\npersonal website, social media, or mailing list, simply ask them to leave a\nreview once the book is launched.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Look for the top book reviewers for your genre on platforms such as Amazon, Goodreads, or even YouTube. Offer to send them a copy of your book in exchange for an honest review. Most reviewers are avid readers and would be happy to <a href=\"https:\/\/kindlepreneur.com\/how-to-get-book-reviews-with-no-blog-no-list-and-no-begging\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">review your book <\/a>simply for getting a free copy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You may have to contact a lot of people in this way. If you\u2019re patient, you\u2019ll get quite a few free promoting reviews. Be gracious and accept their opinion, even if it\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/writingcooperative.com\/bad-press-is-better-than-no-press-64bbbd51e538\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">critical<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Guest Posts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A great way to bolster your online presence is to write <a href=\"https:\/\/www.copyblogger.com\/guest-posts\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">guest posts<\/a>, especially for non-fiction writers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Find websites, blogs, and online magazines\nthat focus on a topic similar to the one your book is about. Check if they\naccept guest posts and whether they have any requirements. Write a good piece\nthat will give them\u2014and you\u2014some traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This step will get your name out there and\nattach it to the topic. Don\u2019t forget to leave a link to your website at the end\nof the article. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If readers like your guest post, they\u2019ll want\nto check your website and see what else you\u2019ve written. It\u2019s free publicity,\nand you may even get paid for it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.clippings.me\/blog\/elements-of-fiction\/\">fiction writer<\/a>, you can try writing a short story (maybe one set in the same universe as your book), or you could write a how-to post for a writing website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Speaking Engagements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re a fiction writer, hosting <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thebookdesigner.com\/2014\/05\/judy-croome\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">book readings<\/a> for your upcoming novel is a great way to generate traction. For non-fiction writers, simply talk about your book\u2019s topic to an audience. If they like what they hear, they\u2019ll want to know more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/self-publishingschool.com\/speaking-engagements-your-first-gig-as-an-author\/\" target=\"_blank\">speaking gig<\/a> doesn\u2019t have to be in a formal setting. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.famousinyourfield.com\/17-ways-to-find-speaking-opportunities\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">Start small<\/a>; find a club, university, or local interest group that may be willing to have you as a speaker. Think about the places where your target audience may be found. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Book Signing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If book readings seem intimidating, consider a <a href=\"https:\/\/selfpublishingadvice.org\/organize-a-book-signing\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">book signing<\/a>. Contact local libraries, universities, bookstores, and book fairs. See if they can grant you a spot for promoting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You could host a book signing event after the\nspeaking gig, or even as a standalone event. The idea is to go out there and\ninteract with your audience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cover Art<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, people do judge a book by its cover. You can have one professionally made or do it yourself. Either way, make sure you understand <a href=\"https:\/\/kindlepreneur.com\/book-cover-design\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">what makes a good cover<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Look up the best-selling books in your genre. You\u2019ll find that they have a pattern of color schemes and font choices. You want your book to fit in with the same pattern, yet have an extra something that will help it stand out for effective promoting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The cover art and the title are your first impressions. Make them count.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Use Video<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Video is a popular medium nowadays. You can\nmake blog posts for your website in a video format, which can make your website\nmore personable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, consider having a <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.standoutbooks.com\/good-book-trailer\/\" target=\"_blank\">book trailer<\/a> made, which is an increasingly common enhancement to regular book marketing plans. Book trailers are rare, so they can spike your readers\u2019 curiosity. However, you have to be careful that it doesn\u2019t treat your book like a film. The best trailers are entertaining and informative. They function as a shareable piece of media rather than a sales pitch. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most importantly, they respect the medium of\nbooks (which has no sounds or images), in the sense that they don\u2019t try to\nlimit the reader&#8217;s imagination of what the characters or places may look like.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to have a book trailer made, make sure that it can pay for itself in revenue. Successful book trailers are hard to pull off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Building a successful book marketing plan may not be something you considered when you first started writing, but it\u2019s important to get that readership! It can also be a lot of fun if you know what you\u2019re doing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What do you think of this list? Do you feel like you\u2019re ready to let the world know about your book?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Photo by&nbsp;<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/@youthreee?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>YJ Lee<\/em><\/a><em>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/s\/photos\/book-store?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>Unsplash<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you want your work to stand out, simply writing a good book is not enough. These practical tips are easy to incorporate into your promoting methods.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":16,"featured_media":658,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-651","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-freelance-writing"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.clippings.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/651"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.clippings.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.clippings.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.clippings.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/16"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.clippings.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=651"}],"version-history":[{"count":16,"href":"https:\/\/www.clippings.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/651\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":670,"href":"https:\/\/www.clippings.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/651\/revisions\/670"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.clippings.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/658"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.clippings.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=651"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.clippings.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=651"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.clippings.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=651"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}