Forget Marketing Online. 5 Tips for Marketing your Books in Person

Book marketing is not all about paid advertising and online strategies. In this article, Maria Dismondy shares how personal connections through speaking, podcast interviews, and networking can help you market your book.  

The first time I considered myself a successful author wasn’t when I saw a certain dollar amount in my bank account. It wasn’t even when I reached certain sales numbers. It was the day someone asked me how many people I had on my team.

The answer was one.

I was doing it all on my own and in that moment I realized my power. I told myself if this is where I could take myself on my own, just imagine the possibilities a full team could bring to life. So after six years as a one-woman show, I brought new team members on board and that freed me up to focus on my favorite part of the business – marketing!

Whether you have a team on your side or are going at it alone, here are my top five marketing tips you can implement today to rev up your business and take things to the next level.

#1 Fulfill a Need for Your Book – Public Speaking

Create a dynamic program that relates to the theme of your book or a hot topic in education and market this program to schools.

For example, the book I co-wrote with retired NFL player, Stephen Tulloch, The Little Linebacker, is a wonderful example of ‘growth mindset’ – a hot buzz phrase in education right now. I designed a program connecting my book to growth mindset and it was a hit!

Public speaking at schools, libraries, and other public forums makes up 40% of my income. So while it takes effort, it’s definitely worth it.

#2 Connect with Your Target Market – Podcast Interviews

In order to sell books, people have to hear about your book. And in order for that to happen, you have to connect with people – a lot!

Research podcasts that speak to your target market and pitch to be a guest on those shows.

For example, my target market is educators, parents, and caregivers so I seek out podcasts aimed at those audiences. Since I also offer coaching services for authors, I also pitch podcasts that educate entrepreneurs and writers. It’s a fun way to connect with a large audience.

#3 Give, Give, Give – Create and Implement a Social Media Share Schedule

Speaking of connecting, there’s no better way to do so than through social media. By providing valuable content to your followers, you’re acquainting yourself with your target market while helping to solve a problem and fill a need.

The best way to do this is to plan ahead and map out a social media schedule. There are rubrics designed to suggest optimal posting schedules to meet your goals.

For instance, I try to post on Facebook five times a day. Whatever schedule you deem right for you, be sure you provide real value, are consistent, and that you’re connecting and engaging with those following you.

#4 Meet People in Your Industry – Network

The moment I stopped thinking I couldn’t share with my colleagues out of the fear of competition, I saw my business flourish.

• Consider hosting a local networking event for members of your industry.

• Join a group on Facebook and connect online.

• Attend national conferences that relate to your specialty.

There is so much power in a community. As the old saying goes, “What goes around comes around” really rings true in a positive way throughout the writing community.

For example, a colleague introduced me to media influencers I then got to work with. Others have contributed to my books, and have joined my launch team to help promote new titles.

It’s a simple concept but endlessly rewarding. (And don’t forget your fans – schedule book readings throughout the year!)

#5 Dedicate Yourself to Growth – Education

I saved the best tip for last! The #1 way I have grown my business is through strategies I learned by listening to free podcasts.

There are local and national organizations that offer conferences and online webinars that can be hugely beneficial to your growth. Research a few events and get them on your calendar. I try to attend one each quarter and I listen to podcast episodes to educate and inspire myself to continue to try new things.

So there you have it! Try implementing one, or all of these tips and see if they make a difference for you.

Above all, don’t be afraid to try new strategies, even if they sound different and non-traditional. This philosophy is the backbone to my thriving business; I hope it helps you flourish as well — good luck!

What in-person marketing strategies have worked for you? Please leave your thoughts below and join the conversation.

Award-winning author and founder of the publishing company, Cardinal Rule Press, Maria Dismondy inspires and educates others in the book industry.

Her background in early education and research enables her to touch lives the world over while touring as a public speaker in schools, community forums, and at national conferences. When Maria isn’t working, she can be found embarking on adventures throughout southeast Michigan and beyond, where she lives with her husband and three book-loving children. Find out more about Maria’s coaching services: info@cardinalrulepress.com