Hello Creative Friend,
Do you ever wonder, "Where are all the people who could/SHOULD read my book?" As my cousin used to say about extraterrestrial aliens and ghosts, "You can't see 'em, but there out there!" Here are a few tips on how to find those readers.
- Instead of thinking about what you are trying say, think about what questions your readers are asking. What are they typing into web search boxes?
- Take time to consider the personality traits, habits, budgets, schedules, and interests of your target readers. Now, where do they look for books to read? They may: Ask friends on Facebook, participate in book clubs, browse by genre on GoodReads, use the library, LISTEN to audio books, read Kindle versions only, and so on.
- How specific is your content? If you have a book about birdwatching in the Smoky Mountains, you should absolutely toss it into the Amazon haystack, but why not reach out to avitourism websites and bird-enthusiast retail shops? My client Carole Ayres wrote a cute poetry and photography book about Turks and Caicos. Guess where it sells best. Yes! Turks and Caicos gift shops. I ghostwrote a book for an outlaw biker and reformed felon. Part of my marketing plan is to contact Harley Davidson dealerships and bike clubs. (Don't tell my mama.)
Remember, online marketing is efficient and smart because the majority of books sold are sold online, BUT every author should have a personal outreach plan. Crippled Beagle Publishing client Phyllis Babrove emails people with spheres of influence. She offers to speak to their groups, donates books as giveaways or gift basket items to help them fundraise, and does Facebook interviews with them. Last week, she sold 20 books to one group in New Hampshire. Fantastic, Phyllis!
If you are in the Tennessee area, one of my contacts, Nancy Mitchell, is spearheading an in-person event. I asked to share her invitation with you, and she said, "Absolutely!" Read her message below and respond to her if you are interested.
Nancy Mitchell:
Hi, Jody ~
I host a writing group at the Art Circle Public Library in Crossville, TN. We are sponsoring another Author Day on Saturday, November 5, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Participating authors will be provided a table and chair to set up a display of their published books. There is no fee to participate. We may have a few time slots available for authors who would like to speak for no more than 15 minutes. Visitors in the library may visit the author tables and purchase books. There is no fee for visitors other than what they pay for their book purchases. Authors keep all sales proceeds. Depending on the number of authors who participate, you may need to share a table. If you would like to participate in our event, please let me know by August 16. I will need to know if you want a table and if you would like to speak. If you would like to speak, please provide your topic.
Nancy Mitchell nancy.lyn@hotmail.com (315)559-1740 (cell)
If you are nowhere close to Crossville, TN, no worries. I bet a stack of books that you can find similar events close to you. No luck? If you have several author friends, organize your own event. I always have a good time talking with other authors and people who love to read.
Please know that you are always welcome to forward my emails to other writers and authors!
Also, if you don't have the CBP Gift of Time Book Marketing Planner, CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FREE .PDF. It's a simple but helpful tool to help you map out six to twelve months of marketing steps.
Happy marketing!
xoxoxo
Jody
