They say everyone has a book in them. Whether you have self-published a book or are just thinking about writing a book, the key to selling that book is marketing.
Most writers want to write their books first, then deal with the publishing and printing process, and then think about how to market it. But if you talk to book publicists or marketing experts they will tell you that this order is backward. Begin to think about marketing your book the day you start to think about writing it, and work to develop your marketing strategy and platform while the book is still in process.
Karen Hodges Miller, owner of Open Door Publications in Lawrenceville, a frequent contributor to U.S. 1, and the author of “Unlocking Your Ideas: Your Book from Concept to Publication” speaks on Tuesday, January 25, at 8 a.m. to the Plainsboro Business Partnership at Tre Piani Restaurant in Princeton Forrestal Village.
Miller says, before you start marketing your book, rethink what you wanted to achieve in writing it. What’s your reason for writing a book? Answering the questions below will help you to clarify your objectives.
— What would you like your book to accomplish for you?
— How will your book help others?
— Do you have other goals for your book?
The first thing you need is a website. If you do not already have one for yourself or your business, get one. A website does not need to be complex to be effective. There are hundreds of resources available at the bookstore and online to help you with a simple do-it-yourself website.
If you already have a website make sure you add a “coming soon” advertisement to your site. You can even ask for advance orders, but be sure to set a publication date — and know that you can honor it —- before you do. Everything from twittering and blogging to good old fashioned networking should be considered. Here are few ideas to get you started on your marketing plan.
— Send out press releases to local, regional, and national publications about your book;
— Send copies of your book to book review websites;
— Have a party! Invite your friends, family and business associates and announce it to the press;
— Place a book trailer on YouTube and other Internet sites;
— Blog and Twitter about your area of expertise;
— Most books aren’t sold in traditional bookstores these days. Make a list of gift shops and boutiques that sell items related to your book;
— Give radio and television interviews;
— Don’t forget the new Internet-based radio stations, they are developing excellent niche audiences
Write releases, and send copies of your book with them to all appropriate media outlets. Include copies of book or book excerpts where appropriate, and don’t forget to follow-up with phone calls.
Marketing a book is an ongoing process. The day you quit marketing your book is the day it stops selling.
Plainsboro Business Partnership, Tre Piani Restaurant, Forrestal Village, Plainsboro, 609-240-6022. www.myplainsboro.com. For business owners, residents, and community leaders to promote the spirit of Plainsboro. Speaker is Karen Miller of Open Door Publications. Bring business cards to network. Register. Free. Tuesday, January 25, 8 a.m.
