Strategic marketing can improve book sales. However, it can quickly waste a lot of money with little return when done haphazardly. Review each advertising option carefully before committing money to it. Here are five ideas to consider:
- Print Ads: Unless you find the ideal publication, print media is an expensive option and seldom generates enough book sales to make it worthwhile. However, the right targeted publication can pay off in a big way.
- Newsletter Ads: Buying ads in newsletters your readers read is another option to consider. Again, the cost may be a limiting factor, but finding the right newsletter can result in a cost-effective promotion that moves books.
- Banner Ads: Have your message displayed on strategically aligned websites, but seek pay-per-click options, not flat-rate programs or per impression schemes.
- Social Media Ads: To promote books some authors score big with Facebook ads; others prefer Twitter. The main thing is to start slow and test your message on a carefully selected target audience.
- Email: Send out an email blast to your mailing list. You do have a mailing list, right? This is the best form of book promotion and sending the email costs next to nothing. If you don’t have an email list, start building one right away. Then, as you wait, tap a friend who is willing to send your message to his or her list.
Learn more about writing and publishing in Peter’s book: Successful Author FAQs: Discover the Art of Writing, the Business of Publishing, and the Joy of Wielding Words. Get your copy today.
Peter Lyle DeHaan is an author, blogger, and publisher with over 30 years of writing and publishing experience. Check out his book Successful Author FAQs for insider tips and insights.
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