What was happening on the blog 6 years ago today?

Author T.C. LoTempio shared with us what the promoting end of the book world looked like. 

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Promotion – a Writer’s necessary Evil

Guest blog by T. C. Lotempio

Okay, you’ve written a book and joy of joys, it’s been accepted by a publisher! You’ve done the rewrites, handed it in on time – now what?  A writer’s job doesn’t just stop with the writing and editing of a book, oh, no.  Promotion is a necessary evil in the life of a writer.  You’ve got to get your name out there, otherwise how are people going to pick your book out of the hundreds of thousands available?  Below are some tips to make your promotion hell easier!

1.      Set up a website- a web presence is important! After all, you want readers to be able to find you!  You can hire a professional web designer or, for small fee, you can purchase software that will guide you through the process of creating an eye-catching webpage.  Your site should include:

·        Book jacket images alongside info about your new book on the home page

·        “About the Author” page

·        Appearance schedule (for book signings and other events)

·        Great quotes from reviewers and other authors

·        Contact info to let readers know how to get in touch with you.       

     (Consider opening an email address specifically for this purpose.)

·        Your publicist’s contact information for media inquiries

·        Links to online booksellers.

          You might also consider:

·        Setting up a blog on your website (Write about what you’re currently working on, the inspiration behind your writing, etc.  Or, try blogging from the point of view of one of your characters!)

·        Links to other websites

·        "Press Room" page for media who want access to photos, video clips, press releases, etc.  Best for those authors who receive many interview requests. 

·        Mailing list sign-up form: Send fans the latest news!   

Once your website is up and running, create an email signature that includes a link to the site to help drive visitors there.

2.      Create an online presence/profile via Facebook

C’mon everyone knows what Facebook is!  It’s one of the best marketing tools around.  Set up a page and create a personal profile.  Join different writer’s groups and interact.  When you have a new release, a Facebook online release party is a surefire to connect with a growing number of people online.  Once your profile is set, invite friends to join your personal network.  Reach out to friends and family, and anyone whose interests indicate that they may become a potential reader.  Facebook is most valuable as a marketing tool the more "friends" you have. 

3)    Build Relationships with Booksellers and Librarians

It’s a good idea to stop into your hometown bookstores, or those you pass in your travels, to sign copies of your books.  We call these “drop-in stock signings” or “drive-by stock signings.”  Introduce yourself to an employee or store manager.  Explain that you’re an author and would like to sign any copies of your book that they have in stock.  The stores are always happy to oblige, and may even put “Autographed by the Author” stickers on your books, or move them to a special “Signed Copies” display.  This will help the books move faster!   If you have major travel planned, with enough advance notice your publicist can often call ahead to let bookstore managers know to expect you during your trip.

Don’t be put off if you learn that the store doesn’t have any copies of your book.  The value of drop-in stock signings lies in meeting booksellers—this is your opportunity to get them excited about your book! 

Something also often overlooked: Introduce yourself to your local librarians – especially if you are a regular browser!  Libraries are a good avenue of promotion and it helps if you can build a relationship with them. 

These ideas are just the tip of the iceberg.  There are many more ways to get yourself out there – and sell books!

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Have you read any of T.C. LoTempio's books?

Here are the first in each series.

 

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