Book Marketing: Have Fun And Sell More Books With These Easy Ideas

Do you hate book marketing? Many authors do. Unfortunately, if we want to publish successfully (so that we sell books), we must do the best we can to get them in front of readers.

When it comes to marketing, we’re all different

After a couple of decades of promoting my novels, here’s what I’ve learned. Find promotional activities you enjoy—and that work for you.

Here’s what matters above all: consistency.

Let’s look at some easy ideas to help.

1. Social media: yes, it still works

I wish I had a dollar for every author who’s said to me: social media is a waste of time.

It may be, especially if you’ve avoided the networking sites. If this is you, find another way of marketing—setting up a social media account takes time. Don’t attempt it if you have contempt for these sites.

On the other hand, if you have an account on Instagram, or X, or Facebook, and don’t mind the site too much, create a little plan.

Consider two words: presence and engagement. In other words, be on the site (ten minutes a day is fine) and interact with people. If you’ve enjoyed a book, mention it.

Avoid promoting your book too much. You’re on the site to be social, above all. Promotional opportunities will develop.

2. Use your words: promote while you’re writing

Please start promoting your book while you’re writing it. Not only will feedback encourage you to keep writing, you’ll build a following.

I’m sure you’re wondering how you’ll promote before your book is available?

Use what you have. If you have a blog, post a snippet from your WIP once a week. A couple of paragraphs is fine. Or post a short story.

No blog? Post something from your WIP to your favorite social media account.

3. Consider building an email list

This is a traditional promotional activity, because it works. But is it for you?

It could be if you enjoy writing, and if creating a weekly or monthly newsletter sounds enjoyable rather than an obligation and a hassle.

On the other hand, if you’ve got little time, and feel that the demands of creating material for your list will be a burden, avoid it.

Vital: enjoyment matters. Do what’s FUN for you.

4. Partner with others: promotion is easier when it’s shared

Do you have author pals?

Ask whether they would be open to a joint promotion. You might advertise your books together, or swap blog posts, or interview each other. Either way, you’d receive an introduction to a new audience.

Make book marketing fun, and you’ll do more of it

Believe it or not, promotions can be a lot of fun, but only if you choose what you enjoy. Believe in yourself and your book.

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