Whether your book is published by an established commercial publisher or you're the self-publisher, you can do your own book publicity.
Electronic pitches--Pitch your book via e-mail in your signature line. Don't spam, of course. But whenever you write an e-mail, include your publication(s) in signature line. Name of the book, a brief blurb and it's location online--whether your personal website or online bookstore.
Bookjacket design--Make sure your bookjacket design enhances marketability. Bookjacket design should invite a buyer. Study the bookjacket designs of bestsellers.
Website design--Each book should have it's own website. Like bookjacket design it should invite a seller. Study the most frequented bookselling websites. Make use of what you learn. Most are very simple and inviting. That is, they're not "busy." You don't need a lot. Focus on the book and why people should buy it. A simple review. Testimonials if there are any. What makes your book unique?
Book reviews--If possible get pre-publication reviews. Who knows the subject who might provide you a favorable review either for the bookjacket, known as "blurbs" or the website or the online bookstore. Lists of book reviewers can be found online. Enter the keywords "book reviewers" in your favorite search engine.
Press & media kits--You should have a press and media kit for both the electronic and the print media. Include Author, Title, Blurb, Testimonials, Description, Media Interest, whatever makes the book sellable to media. You can design your own press/media kit or contact the professionals online. These can be found at book promotions and book publicity websites.
Book signings--Call local library and tell them about your new book. Maybe they're interested in book signings. Local bookstores might also be interested. You or the bookstore should order sufficient copies of your book, so that when people come for the booksigners, there are enough books.
Book readings--Call local schools, bookstores, and libraries. Are they interested in readings? These can be combined with booksignings.
Postcards--You can print postcards announcing your book. The design can also be the same design as the book jacket. When you send out postcards, use your book announcement postcard.
Press Release--There are numerous press release websites online, many are free. Use "press release" and "free press release" in the keywords of your favorite search engine.
Bylined articles--You can write bylined articles for the print and electronic media. Once you write you article, include your publication(s) in the byline.
Book distributors and wholesalers--Contact book distributors and wholesalers. There are many who specialize in self-published and independent publishers.
Online Bookstore--If you're a self-published author, try to get your book into online bookstores.
Bookstores--Call local bookstores to find out if your books are there and/or if they'd be interested in reviewing a copy for possible purchase. Try local bookstores first, then national, then international. Information can be found online.
Start Your Own Online bookstore--Consider starting your own online bookstore, selling yours and other books. There are also easy turnkey bookstores found online. Keywords "Start Your Own Online Bookstore."
Library--Call your local library or send them a postcard with your book annoucement and order information. Try local libraries first, then national, then international. Again, information can be found online.
Website Traffic--If your book is on a website, try to increase website traffic. Use keyword "free traffic" in your favorite search engine.
Local Newspapers, Radio & TV--Try the local media first, especially if you're a self-published author. Also, if you're new to media, practice locally first. Learn. Also, this helps to provide samples for national media. Once you appear locally, you might have tape/video for national media interest.
Marketing Plan--Have a marketing plan before you publish your book. The above provides some suggestions. What other marketing ideas do you have?
F & B Publications
