Tips for Marketing Books

In today's publishing world, whether or not an author self-publishes, promoting and marketing usually falls to the author. It is a crucial part of the process and cannot be ignored if the author wants to sell many books. Of course, a social media presence is almost required, and publishers usually do require it. However, this social media presence shouldn't just be book ads. Authors need to establish themselves as serious, professional writers who are knowledgable about the area in which they write. They need to be friendly and present themselves well. 

Besides the usual publicity markets with websites, newsletters, social media, and giveaways or sales, look for other creative ways to get the word out about your books. Here are some ideas I've used:

• Do radio interviews. I have done three in the four years I've been publishing, and I find them easy and most helpful.

• Guest blog or allow bloggers to feature you. These have been one of the best ways I've found to increase sales.

• Contact newspapers. Many are eager to feature local authors, especially if they have a weekly arts and entertainment section.

• I write an article for a magazine in exchange for an ad in their magazine. This has gotten me a lot of name recognition and even some direct sales. You might also look for other creative ways to promote and market.

• If you go to conferences or events that allow for book sales, be sure to take yours and participate. This will broaden your fan base.

• Be available for speaking engagements, whether it's for book clubs, civic organizations, churches, conferences, schools, etc. I've always found these to be very beneficial.

• If you have themed books, even in fiction (for example, the Civil War or the Appalachian Mountains) look for festivals or events dealing with that where you could set up a booth and sell your books. 

• And have fun with the marketing. It can be about meeting people, making new friends, and establishing connections. In the meantime, you'll notice your sales are growing too.

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