I find the holidays inspiring. During those times when I can stop and stand back a little from the hustle bustle, I often discover inspiration. I might witness a kind act that sparks an idea for an article. Inspiration sometimes comes from a mood I experience while shopping in festive stores or enjoying a sweet moment with friends. I feel the Christmas spirit in my kitchen as I prepare baked goodies for neighbors or when wrapping a special gift for a loved one.<\/p>\n
But I\u2019m also inspired by the commercial side of the holidays. There\u2019s a lot to be learned about marketing when it is in full swing like it tends to be during the holidays. Here are some tips:<\/p>\n
\u2022\tPay attention to sales tactics at the stores where you shop. Have you noticed the one at major grocery stores lately? They offer one price for one item. If you buy three (or maybe six or eight), you get a deeper discount. We can do that with our books\u2014in particular gift books, novels, children\u2019s books\u2026 <\/p>\n
\u2022\tGrocery store managers also bundle items. You\u2019ll see ads where you can buy any three items or any six items and get a dollar or more off. You could bundle your book with other compatible books and, perhaps, increase sales.<\/p>\n
\u2022\tObserve how customers in stores react and respond to items on display. You might come up with some new ways to showcase or package your books at your website\u2014at book festivals, etc. <\/p>\n
\u2022\tWatch TV commercials. You could pick up some interesting sales tactics by copying the marketing masters. Notice what catches your eye, what moves you, what makes you want to watch (or not).<\/p>\n
\u2022\tListen when newscasters report holiday sales. Find out who\u2019s shopping, what they\u2019re buying. Consider marketing to that demographic. <\/p>\n
Have you received inspiration this holiday season that you can use in your writing or bookselling process? I\u2019d like to hear about it.<\/p>\n
In the meantime, this is a good time to order a copy of my book on book promotion. Promote Your Book, Over 250 Proven, Low-Cost Tips and Techniques for the Enterprising Author<\/em>. http:\/\/www.matiljiapress.com\/PromteYourBook.html<\/a> <\/p>\n