We’ve been extremely busy and focused on several exciting projects in the past few months. Most recently, a book launch and publicity campaign for client Dr. Edward Torba’s middle-grade fantasy that we are calling “Harry Potter with a dental twist” 🙂
We’ve set up book signings and launched publicity efforts in the Philadelphia area – the largest media market for Latrobe, PA where Dr. Torba, a local dentist and now author, is headquartered. We honed in on National Children’s Dental Health Month for our media hook and included a nonprofit angle which always encourages media coverage. Dr. Torba will donate proceeds from the sale of Matt Monroe and the Secret Society of Odontology to the pediatric dental programs for UPMC Children’s Hospital.
So far, we have six book signings at local Barnes & Noble stores AND Indie bookstores! The Indie stores have also agreed to stock his books on consignment… sometimes all you need is professional press materials and to ASK. Remember, book store owners are looking for new, exciting books to share with THEIR audience.
Book signings and discussions are a great tool for marketing and selling your book, so it’s best to take advantage of all the opportunities that these events afford you. Though it may seem a lot of work for little profit, there are many benefits, like expanding your social network or building relationships with store owners and future readers.
As we do with all of our BBL Authors and consulting clients, we prepare you for any upcoming events to maximize your effectiveness – and sales. Below are a few tips from our Book Signing Tip Sheet. For the complete list, sign up below.
BOOK SIGNING TIPS
- Invite everyone you can. Print small flyers. Call or text friends and family. Ask them to share. Post on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, LinkedIn if you’re a professional. And use professional, eye-catching graphics. Do whatever you can to get the word out there!
- Arrive early and bring promotional materials, posters, bookmarks, event balloons, etc. to put outside or in the store.
- Events at book stores offer the “optics” that your book is important and mainstream. Take advantage and use photos, posters, and in-store displays to promote yourself!
- They give you something to talk about, and help you build relationships with bookstores and their buyers.
- If an audience doesn’t gather, just sign books and chat with buyers.
- Indie bookstores may carry your book on consignment. Have them pre-order the books and promote before the book signing.
Launching your book is a lot of work, but well worth the effort. Start planning early, remember that it’s about creating relationships with your readers, and put together a strong team to help you. Then celebrate!
To your publishing success!
Leann
Remember to get your Book Signing Tip Sheet here.
This is one awesome article. Really thank you! Fantastic. Marne Gerhard Merdith