Marketing tips for new authors
Posted: Nov 9, 2011 3:46 PM
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I thought it might help to start a thread for new authors, so they can learn from our mistakes and successes. I do not pretend to know all the answers, but I can explain a few things that might help. The following will look like a huge ad, but I am offering you inexpensive alternatives that I use and recommend. I have written 21 books, so I have a little experience to share.
1. Name recognition is important. Promote using the name you have chosen to write under. The more people see your name, the more they will remember it.
2. Build a website. I use Google Sites because they are free and professional looking. Example of a Google Site: www.firstchapterproject.com
3. Read everything you can find on book promotion. There are tons of free articles and blogs on the web. Set aside a day or two just to educate yourself.
4. Ask yourself if your book is really one that appeals to mass market readers. If not, set your sales goal accordingly so you are not disappointed. Trust me, this is not the path to easy riches - it takes hard work.
5. Most don't like it when I say this, but do not swap books with other authors in exchange for reviews, pay for reviews or ask people to "like" your book who have not read it. Note: if you have 167 likes and no sales, what does it tell the readers? Don't ask friends and family for reviews. Be honest and wait for real reviews, which are far more gratifying.
Reviews are for readers, not writers.
6. Work hard on your book blurb (description). If it is flat, boring, too long, gives too much away or has errors, readers won't buy. -- How to Write a Book Blurb that Sells (And Other Ebook Marketing Advice)
http://amzn.com/B005SY5SZ0 $.99
7. Find an editor fast. You may think your book is perfect, but it is better to make sure. I have seen authors receive as many as 10 bad reviews for typos that could have easily been avoided. Bad reviews are hard, if not impossible, to overcome. Try Frankie - inexpensive editing http://
8.Don't fall into the formatting pit. Formatting does not require a 4 year degree. A word.doc works just fine and in most cases, better. but if you are overwhelmed or too busy - Formatting - www.eformatters.com (my daughter)
9. Face it - you are not going to retire on just one book. Keep writing. A series is your best choice and will keep readers coming back for more. I have only heard of one author who's made a million on only one book, and it was traditionally published with mass marketing behind it.
10. There is only one sure way to sell books - write one that readers will recommend to other readers. Unfortunately, no one will find your book if you don't tell them and that's where the hard work comes in. Prepare for six months to a year before becoming profitable.
I know there are others on this board who can add to my advice. Hopefully we will hear from them on this thread.
Marti's Author page -- http://www.amazon.com/-/e/
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