Although it’s a wonderful feeling to finally hold your published novel in your hands, it’s an even better feeling to watch your book sell. How exactly do you go about making sure that your novel sells lots of copies and that you, in the process, become a best-selling novelist? Here are some of the best ways to promote your novel:
Build a Web site or write a blog. This has become a definite must for promoting a novel or other book. Of course, your site has to tell something about you, the author, but you can also include articles or blog posts on a topic of interest that ties in to your book. That way, you’ll attract readers who never heard of you to your site.
Send out a press release. Create a short write-up about your novel — including the publisher, where to buy the book, price, and your name, phone number, and e-mail address — and send the press release via e-mail or the Postal Service to any media that may be interested in letting others know about your book: newspapers, radio stations, bloggers, anyone you can think of.
Do readings. Bookstores, schools, and libraries love authors, and they’re often very enthusiastic about scheduling authors to do readings, workshops, and all sorts of events. Speak with the person in charge to find out how you can get onto their reading schedule.
Mail or e-mail sample copies of your book for reviews. If your publisher has some money set aside for marketing, then it’ll probably be willing to do the mailing for you. But if not, you can do it yourself. Send copies of your book to the people you think will provide you with publicity by reviewing your book, such as local newspapers, radio stations, and interested bloggers.
Hire a book publicist. This should be a last resort due to the cost. A book publicist is an expert in promoting books and hopefully boosting sales in the process. Ask other successful novelists for referrals to a good book publicist, and be prepared to pay handsomely for a talented professional.
