by Jane Wesman, President of Jane Wesman Public Relations, Inc.
Make Sure That You Break Through To Success
Recently, one of our clients was lamenting the fact that he had waited too long to start promoting his book. My team and I were scrambling to make up for lost time.
Our client is not alone. It’s easy to procrastinate. But truthfully, it’s never too early to begin your campaign. Here are five things you can do long before publication date.
1. Build a website
It can take months to create a great website. Choosing an effective design, building seamless functionality, preparing engaging content, and developing free downloads require much thought and often many revisions – even when you work with an experienced web designer. Tip: when building a new website, use your name, not the book’s title, as your URL. This allows you to enhance your brand and promote all of your books on one website.
2. Solicit endorsements
Begin obtaining endorsements as soon as you have a clean manuscript. Comments from experts, thought-leaders, and well-known authors will add credibility to your work and can be used in all aspects of marketing – on your book jacket, website, and Amazon, and to interest stores in carrying your book.
3. Use social media
Begin building your social media presence as early as possible. We recommend choosing two, possibly three, platforms. Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter are most popular with our clients. Post samples of your book’s content, advance praise, notices of special events, links to your blogs, articles, and online booksellers. Tip: It’s important to follow other authors and experts, and to share their posts to increase your own following.
4. Grow your email list
Growing your email list should be an ongoing process starting well before publication date, continuing throughout the launch, and for months afterward. Create a long-term plan to let people know about your book with informational emails, links to your website and online articles, and most importantly, reminders to pre-order on Amazon or other booksellers. Tip: continue using email for as long as you wish, no matter when your book is published.
5. Plan your launch events
Whether it’s a bookstore signing, a cocktail party, panel discussion, or series of speaking engagements, it’s never too early to begin scheduling your book launch events. Bookstore calendars fill up quickly, while conferences secure speakers months in advance. Decide what will be the most effective way for you to generate excitement – and then plan accordingly.
Focusing on your objectives and starting your book promotion campaign early is the key to a successful launch. Make sure that your book gets the recognition it deserves by implementing the steps outlined above.
