So You Wrote a Book, Now How Do You Avoid Using it as a Doorstop?
Congratulations! You channeled your inner Hemingway (or maybe your inner Danielle Steel), wrestled a manuscript into submission, and birthed a beautiful book! Now what? Unless your plan involves constructing a particularly sturdy fort, here's a guide to transforming your book from a shelf-sitter to a bestseller (or at least something your mom will brag about at the PTA meeting).
Step 1: Befriend the Algorithm Overlords
Ah, the algorithm. This mysterious entity decides what appears on your friend's Facebook feeds and what languishes in the digital abyss. Befriending it is key. No one truly understands how it works, but here's a good guess: it thrives on regular offerings of cute cat videos and content people actually want to see.
Action Plan:
- Social Media Blitz: Start posting about your book everywhere. Twitter, Facebook, Instagram – if it has a digital pulse, be there. But don't just announce your book's existence with the enthusiasm of a sloth on a Tuesday. Post funny excerpts, behind-the-scenes writing struggles, or offer sneak peeks at upcoming chapters.
Pro Tip: If dressing up like your characters for a TikTok video is your jam, do it. The algorithm seems to have a soft spot for endearingly awkward dancing.
Step 2: Become a Networking Ninja
Let's face it, people buy from people they know (or at least people they've seen enough online that they feel like they know). Get out there and start schmoozing!
- Hit the Bookstores: Offer to do readings at local bookstores (bribe them with cookies if necessary). Mingle with the patrons, talk about your book's existential themes hidden within a gripping romance plot (or whatever your genre is).
- Friend Other Authors: Network with fellow wordsmiths online and at conferences. Not only will you commiserate about the struggles of writer's block, but you might score some blurb love or a guest spot on their blog.
Step 3: Embrace the Power of the Freebie
There's a reason why free samples exist at Costco. People love a good deal. Dangle the freebie carrot to entice potential readers.
- Offer a Free Chapter: Give readers a taste of your book's brilliance with a free downloadable chapter.
- Run a Giveaway: Host a contest on social media where the prize is a signed copy of your book. This will get people talking and sharing, spreading your book's name like literary wildfire (hopefully not a wildfire that burns libraries, that would be bad).
Remember: Don't be afraid to get a little silly! People are more likely to remember the author who made them laugh while scrolling through endless cat videos. So put on your metaphorical dancing shoes (or pajamas, no judgement here) and get ready to sell some books!
