What if I told you that some of the unique book marketing ideas weren’t the hardest to make happen? The ones that required oodles of budget dollars? Or the ones that feel so out of reach?
Instead, what if I told you that they may be right under your nose and at the tips of your fingers? I believe that each author is sitting on countless book marketing opportunities that they didn’t know existed (or, better yet, just never thought of doing).
Stop looking elsewhere and start with what you already have.
The best marketing strategies help you reach those who desperately need your message, want your message and are willing to invest in your message. Many authors feel like that requires you to be on the Today Show or do a massive podcast tour. Maybe one day that would be a great addition to your visibility efforts, but I have a different approach for you to consider.
Go after your warm leads first! A warm lead?! What is that? You are likely sitting on a stockpile of them. Your network already knows you and loves you. And they may know someone who could benefit from your book and your message. Utilize your network of people you already have in your life as connectors will open doors you didn’t think of already!
I believe that every author is about one or two degrees away from someone who is just dying to get your book and learn from it. You may not know those people, but I betcha your connections do! Take advantage of them.
You likely offer a win-win solution to someone else.
Two words are game-changing: strategic partnerships. Strategic partnerships can be defined as low-cost (or no cost) opportunities that you can leverage to everyone’s advantage. Both you and your strategic partner have shared goals, and when working together, you both win! For this noncompetitive gal, that makes my heart do a happy dance.
A great example of a strategic partnership is between authors and libraries. Libraries are always looking for fun and creative ways to present new offerings to their local communities. If you don’t already have a relationship with your local library system, reach out and tell them about your work and what your goals are. I’m sure a great partnership will come from it.
No overthinking is required.
Thank goodness, right? The most effective marketing tactics are simple. Simplicity is key, my author friends. One of the best executed marketing strategies I’ve seen was a button that said, “Ask me about my book.” This was a conversation starter and a great tool to help you network with people you might be too nervous to talk to otherwise. And it gave people permission to approach you and start a conversation!
Don’t be intimidated when trying to market your book if you don’t have extensive knowledge about marketing. Hint: Most people don’t! It’s okay to keep your visibility techniques simple and operating on a small scale. Don’t overthink it! But be aware that there may come to a crossroads where you need some additional assistance and guidance. When it comes time to ask someone for help, give the emPower PR Team a shout!
Tune into Season 7 of The emPowered Author Podcast for more unique book marketing ideas.
