A Roadmap to Book Marketing: The First Five Steps for New Authors
Where to start? When to start? Let's discuss...
I’m asked almost daily:
When do I need to start my author platform?
Where do I need to be?
What’s an author platform?
As a new author, entering the world of book marketing can feel like navigating a labyrinth. But fear not! Focusing on a few key initial steps can set the stage for your book's success.
Here are the first five things you must do to kickstart your book marketing journey.
Define Your Target Audience:
Before marketing your book effectively, you must know who you're marketing to. But how can you know if you aren’t ‘selling’ your book yet? Look at comps (comparable titles). More here from Jane Friedman.
Who is your ideal reader? What are their interests, demographics, and reading habits? Where do they hang out?
Understanding your target audience will help you tailor your marketing efforts to reach the people most likely to enjoy and purchase your book.
Most new writers have no idea who their ideal reader is. I know I had no idea! What helped me the most? Building relationships on social media with people who have similar interests. More here:
Create a Strong Online Presence:
A robust online presence is crucial in today's digital age. Start by building a professional author website showcasing your book, author bio, and other relevant content. I frequently work with Authorbytes (mention me for a 20% discount) - they have gorgeous sites for writers and several options for indie authors.
Utilize social media platforms to connect with your audience, share updates, and promote your book.
Which platforms? Depends, again, on where your ideal reader hangs out. (My readers are mostly on X and Facebook, so that’s where I spend the majority of my time marketing on socials.)
Platforms like Instagram, X/Twitter, and Facebook are great for engaging with readers and building a community around your work.Develop a Launch Plan:
A well-thought-out launch plan can significantly impact your book's success. Plan activities leading up to your launch date, such as a cover reveal, pre-order incentives, and a launch event.
Contact book bloggers, influencers, and local media to generate buzz around your release. You may need to hire a PR firm if you want national exposure. I recommend David Ratner PR. He’s experienced and honest.Utilize Email Marketing:
Building an email list is a powerful way to connect directly with your readers. Use your website and social media channels to encourage people to sign up for your newsletter.
Want an easy way to grow your subscriber list quickly? Check out Booksweeps, and you’ll receive hundreds of legit subscribers ($50)- more here:
To keep your subscribers engaged, provide valuable content, such as exclusive sneak peeks, author insights, or writing tips.
Gather Reviews:
Reviews are the lifeblood of book marketing. They provide social proof and can significantly influence potential readers' purchasing decisions.I’m very impressed with the services offered by BookAward Pro. Click here (full disclosure: affiliate link) to learn more. I am using them for both my clients and my own books. More soon!
Consider offering reviewers Advanced Reader Copies (ARCs) in exchange for feedback (remember - you can’t sway readers by offering free copies in exchange for a positive review - you can offer free review copies for honest reviews).
Positive reviews on platforms like Amazon* and Goodreads can boost your book's visibility and credibility.
*Remember that readers can’t leave you a review on Amazon unless they’ve spent a minimum of $50 on the platform in a calendar year.
Book marketing is a marathon, not a sprint, so these initial steps will lay the foundation for your ongoing marketing efforts. Stay patient, stay engaged with your audience, and refine your strategies as you learn what works best for you and your book.
Want to talk about how I can help craft your social media presence? Let’s book a call! Mention this newsletter for a 20% discount on any monthly package.
• This month’s #BookMarketingChat space was great! Hannah from Book Award Pro was my guest - a much-needed affordable service for writers. You might have won some amazing free gifts if you attended the live! Click here to listen to the reply anytime.
• Services: If you’re in need of any kind of book marketing help, connect with me! I offer all kinds of packages for all budgets. Specialties include author branding, book marketing, social media, and blogging/newsletter/website.
Something new:
New monthly audiospace (open to all) at 2 pm PST on the last Tuesday of each month: Want specific advice on your current web presence (website, blog, socials, newsletter)?
Join me as my guest for host Vennie Kocsis’ audiospace on XSpaces where we discuss and review!
Free to attend. Click ➡️ here now to set a reminder. Follow me @BadRedheadMedia and @VennieKocsis on X(formerly Twitter).
Join me for my now-monthly #BookMarketingChat on Wednesday, 3/6 at 2 pm pst/5 pm est. Open Q&A here: https://twitter.com/i/spaces/1gqGvQMZyEBKB (Click to listen at that time OR to the replay anytime after the space ends.)
Sponsor:
💜 Thank you, Booklinker, my exclusive advertising sponsor for 2024! Free universal book links for all authors. Super easy to use. And they have a fantastic blog here.💜
See you next week!
