So, you wrote a book. You survived the plot twists, the edits, the self-doubt, and the late-night writing marathons. Now comes the part many writers dread even more than editing: marketing.
Here’s the truth—no matter how brilliant your book is, if no one knows about it, it won’t sell. But don’t worry! Marketing isn’t about shouting “BUY MY BOOK!” into the void of the internet. It’s about connecting with readers, building excitement, and showing people why your book belongs on their shelf. Whether you’re self-publishing or going the traditional route, these marketing strategies will help you get your book into the hands of people who will love it.
1. Build Your Author Platform (Before and After You Publish)
Your author platform is your online presence—the place where readers can find you, connect with you, and fall in love with your work. Even if your book isn’t out yet, start building now.
Create an Author Website:
- Include your bio, book information, and a blog.
- Offer a freebie (like a short story or sample chapters) in exchange for email sign-ups.
Get on Social Media:
- Choose platforms you enjoy. Instagram (especially #Bookstagram), TikTok (#BookTok), and Twitter are popular for authors.
- Post about your writing process, character inspiration, and book milestones. Show your personality—people follow authors they like, not just books they want to read.
2. Build an Email List (Your Secret Weapon)
An email list is one of the most powerful marketing tools you can have. Why? Because it’s direct—you own the connection with your readers (unlike social media, where algorithms rule).
How to Build It:
- Offer a freebie (like a short story, novella, or the first chapter of your book).
- Include a sign-up form on your website and share it on social media.
What to Send:
- Updates on your book’s progress
- Sneak peeks (like cover reveals or character art)
- Exclusive content (like deleted scenes or writing tips)
- Announcements about sales, giveaways, or new releases
3. Launch Your Book with a Bang
Your book launch is your chance to make a splash. Plan it carefully and get people excited before your book is available.
Build Pre-Launch Buzz:
- Cover Reveal: Share your cover across social media. Encourage followers to repost.
- ARC (Advance Reader Copies): Send copies to reviewers, bloggers, and BookTubers. Positive reviews before launch build credibility.
- Create a Countdown: Use Instagram Stories or TikTok to post daily countdown updates with fun facts about your book or characters.
Launch Day Ideas:
- Host a virtual launch party on Instagram Live, YouTube, or Facebook.
- Run a giveaway (e.g., signed copies, bookmarks, or bookish swag).
- Offer a limited-time discount for the eBook.
4. Get Reviews (and Lots of Them)
Reviews are gold for authors. They influence buying decisions and help your book show up in search results.
How to Get Reviews:
- Ask Early Readers: Your ARC readers should be your first reviewers.
- Add a Review Request: At the end of your book, ask readers to leave a review on Amazon and Goodreads.
- Use Book Review Sites: Try platforms like NetGalley or BookSirens to reach a wider audience.
5. Use Amazon to Your Advantage
Amazon is the biggest bookstore in the world, so it pays to know how to work their system.
Optimize Your Book Listing:
- Categories & Keywords: Pick categories that fit your book but aren’t too competitive. Aim for niche subcategories where you can rank higher.
- Compelling Book Description: Write a description that hooks readers. Think of it as your book’s sales pitch.
Run Amazon Ads:
- Start with a small budget and target readers of similar books.
- Use keywords based on popular authors in your genre.
6. Get on Goodreads (Because Readers Live There)
Goodreads is where book lovers hang out. Be there. Engage. But don’t spam.
What to Do on Goodreads:
- Create an Author Profile: Add your photo, bio, and book info.
- List Your Book Giveaway: Goodreads giveaways can help you reach thousands of readers.
- Join Groups: Participate in groups related to your genre, but focus on genuine engagement, not self-promotion.
7. Leverage the Power of #BookTok and #Bookstagram
Book lovers rule TikTok and Instagram. If you can tap into these communities, your book could go viral.
#BookTok Tips:
- Share snippets of your writing process.
- Use trending sounds with your book’s aesthetic.
- React to bookish trends like “5 tropes I love” or “Books that broke me.”
#Bookstagram Tips:
- Take beautiful photos of your book.
- Share fun facts like character playlists or dream castings.
- Use hashtags like #amwriting, #writersofinstagram, and #indieauthor.
8. Network with Other Authors
Writing may be solitary, but marketing shouldn’t be. Build relationships with other authors in your genre. Support their launches, share their work, and they’ll likely return the favor.
Ways to Connect:
- Join author groups on Facebook or Discord.
- Participate in joint giveaways or newsletter swaps.
- Collaborate on Instagram Lives or TikTok duets.
9. Run Promotions and Price Drops
Sales attract readers—especially if you’re a new author.
Try These Promotions:
- BookBub Featured Deals: Hard to get, but incredible for sales.
- Kindle Countdown Deals: Great for limited-time price drops.
- Permafree First Book: If you’re writing a series, make book one free to draw readers in.
10. Keep Marketing After the Launch
Marketing doesn’t stop once your book is out. Consistency is key.
Post-Launch Strategies:
- Create Bonus Content: Offer readers extra scenes or character backstories.
- Keep Collecting Reviews: Reach out to readers and remind them how much reviews help.
- Promote Seasonally: Tie your book into relevant seasons or holidays. (Romance in February, thrillers for Halloween, cozy reads for winter, etc.)
Marketing your book doesn’t mean selling your soul. It’s about building genuine connections with readers and sharing your passion. Will it take time? Yes. Will it feel awkward sometimes? Absolutely. But with persistence, creativity, and a dash of courage, your book will find its audience—and maybe even its biggest fans.
So, get out there and share your story. You’ve already done the hardest part: writing the book. Now let the world read it.
Happy Marketing!!
BrambleBelle
