If you have written a book, it’s impertinent that you publicise it. In-person events in a cosy bookstore/library, educational institute, or literary space are snug. It fosters networking. You meet/know new readers. Hence, it’s good for publicising.
Your readers can hear you speak. They can ask you questions.
Other writers, book retailers or whole-sellers, media-persons, book-bloggers, etc. may also be in the audience. This will further boost networking and help you make new social connections.
You should find inexpensive and unique ways to reach to your audience and sell books. Because book sales at events are expensive. Moreover, there’s competition as well.
These are some strategies, through which you may garner attention and sales.
- Publicize your event by sending a press release to all local media, to local media calendars. The venue is likely to provide a certain amount of event publicity, though. Create a Facebook event and invite local friends. Spread the word. Ask your friends to share your link. Send local literary organizations a personal Build up to the event on social media by consistently posting pictures, excerpts, blurbs, and videos that highlight your book, ensuring the event details are always clearly labelled.
- Make it easy to buy your books with all buying options such as cash, Square, PayPal, point-of-sale app, cards, etc. open.
- Offer extra special freebies and unique pens or small notebooks which is connected to your book’s content.
- Provide event discount; so that readers feel that they’ll receive something special there.
- Ask new contacts and readers to volunteer to receive your regular e-newsletters. Make newsletter sign-up sheets (associated with your website) available at the event. Offer small gifts to those who sign up.
- Gift copies of your new book to anyone you feel, may be able to assist with your publicity in the future. Also hand over cards with a code of a free e-book (created by self-publishing e-book creator).
- Once the event is successful, thank the person/organisation who hosted you. This will leave a good impression on them for future. E-mail people who signed up for your newsletter. Even if your audience did not purchase your book in person; do extend the same discounts to them.
- Don’t overlook the importance of book illustration which goes a long way in selling your book. Take the assistance of professional kids’ book illustrator if you plan to sell kids’ book.
Employ the services of professionals like White Magic Studios for e-book cover design, and many other services such as layout, formatting, editing, creating websites & trailers, etc.