How To Market and Promote Your Book Like a Pro

Are you an author looking to expand your reader base but don't know where to start? Or, perhaps you do not have a lot of funds for ads or hiring a book marketing agency.

Worry not, because there many inexpensive tactics you can use to market your book still successfully.

Here are a few:

Start a Blog, Use SEO Strategies  

One of the most effective and cost-effective ways to bring in new readers is through proven SEO (search engine optimization) strategies.

I assume that you have an author website already, but if you do not, it is essential to have one and a listed blog that readers can access. 

Search engine optimization refers to the keywords users type in to find what they are looking for. For instance, I may type in "best horror books of the 21st century," which would bring plenty of blogs on the subject matter. The most strategic way to use those keywords is to blog instead of stuffing them around your website. 

It not only draws people in with relevant words but also offers value for new readers.

Yes, they can read your books for the most value, but what can you provide beyond that?

For example, if you are one of those horror authors, perhaps you can include a blog post about the scariest animals or some of the possible haunted places you have visited. A reader of this genre would be sure to find this interesting.

Start an Email List

Email marketing is a must-have for authors!

It allows you to connect with your readers in a personal, easy-to-access way. It is shown that most users access their email at least once a day. You can send out book promotions and announcements about upcoming events or share a collection of interesting information and then deliver it to your reader's inbox. You help ensure it is one of the first things they see when they log on. 

Email addresses are also easy to collect, whether you offer a discount on joining a mailing list or ask customers to sign up on your website. While most email marketing platforms charge a nominal fee, many are provided with your web hosting service or offer a free trial.  

Attend Workshops, Conferences, and Conventions

While some can be expensive, many are highly affordable or outright free, especially if you are an author!

The cost may be that you host a panel or offer a workshop of some sort.

Even if it is a specialized conference, such as an alien con or comic con. There is often a form to fill out on the website, but it also never hurts to ask.

I have had many panels available to me simply because I sent out an inquiry. 

Check your local listings, local Facebook event pages, Meetup groups, or other event platforms to see what is available for authors or your specific genre. Networking events are not only a great way to find new readers, but they can also offer insight into the industry. I can't tell you how many times I found handy tips just by talking to other authors. You can get a good sense of what works, what doesn't, and what new trends pop up. 

Get Listed in Digital Directories & Review Sites

Did you know that there are a ton of digital directories out there for authors?

Sometimes these are book listings, or sometimes these are listings straight to your blog (often known as backlinks). The same goes for book reviews – many book bloggers will write a review on Amazon or B&N and list the same check on their website, giving you more exposure. 

While some websites do charge a fee, many like the advantage of having content on their website; again, there is no form to fill out, and you see that the website owner has listings that are on par with what you write, reach out and ask!  

Offer Discounts and Coupons

If you can offer discounts or coupons, such as through your bookselling website, or Amazon's Kindle Select Program, then do so!

By offering deals and coupons, current and potential readers are more likely to be interested. This is effective whether you are an author or are a small business owner, and it is a suggestion I would tell both. 

It is the hook that helps to draw in your readers.

For instance, I make it freely available the first day for some books I release, especially prompt or writing books. Not only does this drum up interest and hopefully reviews, but I also make sure I link or list my previous books, ensuring that my readers are more likely to check out my other works.

Your Book Marketing Blueprint

The path to authorial success is multi-faceted. It's not just about writing a great book; it's about how you present it to the world. By implementing proven SEO strategies, starting an email list, attending industry events, getting listed in digital directories, and offering discounts, you can significantly broaden your reach and connect with more readers.

Each of these strategies offers its own set of benefits, and when used in combination, they can be incredibly powerful. So don't wait—start applying these tips today to unlock new levels of success in your author journey.

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