So far this week, we\u2019ve talked about your book promotion mindset and I tried to drive home the importance of actively promoting your book. But what are some of the activities you can pursue and which ones are best?<\/p>\n
I\u2019ll give you an idea of the scope of activities in a moment. First, let me respond to the all-important second question: What is the best way to promote a book?<\/p>\n
Here\u2019s my standard response: \u201cIt depends on you\u2014the author\u2014and it depends on your book.\u201d There is no plan or program, no specific activity or pursuit that is right for every author. Remember, you are the CEO of your book. You and your book are unique. You have a unique set of skills and contacts. You have a unique audience. It is up to you to determine the following:<\/p>\n
\u2022\tWho is your audience?
\n\u2022\tWhere are they? Where do they learn about the books they want to read? Where do they buy books?
\n\u2022\tWhat is the best way to approach your audience?<\/p>\n
I can and will make this strong suggestion: Do not purchase a marketing package from your self-publishing company. Instead, use your head. Get creative. And come up with a marketing plan that will reach and address your particular audience in a way that is suited to your personality and skill level. Individualize your plan. You\u2019ll have much greater success.<\/p>\n
Another blanket tip involves exposure\u2014while you believe the majority of your potential readers are not computer literate, for example, don\u2019t discount opportunities to promote your book using social media, by having a website and so forth. Exposure is the name of the book promotion game. You want your book mentioned and showcased as many places as is at all logical or possible. While you\u2019ll most likely put most of your energy in activities you believe will reach the largest numbers of your audience, it is still wise to take advantage of many other opportunities to get exposure for your book. <\/p>\n
Okay, so what are some of the ideas most authors should take advantage of when promoting their books? Here they are in no particular order: (Note: I might recommend a certain order for specific authors. The order can differ from author to author.)<\/p>\n
1: Build your own website. Even if your book is showcased at your publisher\u2019s website or at your self-publishing service\u2019s website, you need your own website with clear, easy-to-locate contact information.<\/p>\n
2: Get involved with social media. Have a blog and post often. Sign up for Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and\/or any of the other social media sites where it makes sense to do so and participate.<\/p>\n