and tomorrow's bestsellers
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Discovering today's talent and tomorrow's bestsellers |
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Selling Your Books Literally millions of books are released into the marketplace every year. At the very least, your book will have to compete against those in your genre for shelf space, media attention, and readership. It isn't enough any more for an author to write a great book; they have to become extroverts overnight, experts at selling, and they have to be able and willing to promote their books non-stop. On-Line Selling Use the Internet to get the word out about your book. Drop into chat rooms and tell people about it, and how to order it. You want to create "buzz" so readers will ask their bookstores for it. When your book is making its way into the book stores, you'll need to be ready with a web site to promote yourself and your books. DO NOT make the mistake of going with a neighborhood web page provided by your Internet provider. They smack of "amateur". You need a web site with your name that can be rattled off your tongue when you're in a radio or television interview. Keep in mind that some people may be driving home from work when they hear your interview and they won't be able to write down your URL. Make it short and memorable. Contests There are a number of awards provided to authors of all genres, particularly those with first books. Google them, and submit your published book to as many as you can. If you've received at least one award, it will boost your book sales. The Book Tour The real purpose of your book tour is to gain publicity. It gives the media an opportunity to write about you because you are part of an "event". And make your signing an event. There's a reason why Anne Rice showed up at her signing in a hearse in downtown New York; it got attention. Be willing to go to any book store that requests you. Meet the people who work in book stores - the owners, the management, the store employees. They are the ones who will recommend your book to their customers. An upcoming article for this web site will be "how to do a book signing", so check back for this important information. Appearances Contact your local radio or television stations and newspapers, or those in the localities where you'll be appearing. There's nothing better than appearing on the morning news to talk about your signing later that day. Don't overlook free newspapers; they are usually much more open to covering local events such as signings. |
