March 19, 2009

Marketing Your Book in a Recession


In this harsh economic climate, publishers and writers alike are looking at the most cost-effective measures for promotion. The recent issue of Children's Writer (http://www.childrenswriter.com/) devotes almost the entire issue to thrifty tips. The following are some of my favorites:

* use online services such as Vista Print http://www.vistaprint.com/ to create postcards/business cards. I use Vista Print, speedy/dependable service, and they frequently have promotions such as 100 postcards free.
* start a blog through free services such as http://www.blogger.com/ * write book reviews. Include the title of your own book after your name
* trade links with other writers
* join the conversation and various groups at Facebook, Twitter, etc. - I created two Facebook pages - one personal page and another specifically for my book. Become a "fan" of your book.
* join local critique and writer's groups
* offer autographed copies of your book as part of a charity gift basket
* ask to be a speaker at clubs, various organizations - I was a speaker for a college creative writing class, church groups and mom's groups
* give a talk or a reading at your local library
* write how-to articles on the craft of writing such as http://www.absolutewrite.com/
* send an email blast to everyone on your email list
* develop strong relationships with your local bookstores

Lots of other great tips and advice from the publishers at Children's Writer. Tough times call for tough people to get creative!



No comments: