We’re big fans of education, and huge proponents of authors taking on some of their own marketing, but the reality is, some book marketing services really are essential to your success.
But not all book marketing companies are created equal — we’re willing to admit that as well!
So how do you know which book marketing services are worth your investment, and which aren’t?
Finding Book Marketing Services That Work
Start with the company’s history and focus. How long have they been around and what do they claim to be experts in? Most companies can’t do it all, and that’s fair, so be wary of a book marketing company claiming they offer one-stop-shopping.
Do they have testimonials on their website? Success leaves clues. We’re beyond proud of our Client Success page, where clients have given their honest opinions about what it’s like to work with our team.
How is their engagement online? If a book marketing company offers book marketing services that include social media efforts, or networking and pitching influencers, they should also walk the walk and have an online presence that proves they know how to show up.
Last but not least, are they honest with you? What we mean is, if a company is selling book marketing services that promise you a bestseller, or say they have the key to success as long as you pay their fee — run away.
The reality is, nothing in this business is easy. But there are steps you can take, and strategies you can use, to stay on the path to success that we’re very confident will reward you in the long run!
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Resources and Free Downloads
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Why Stephen King turned on his own publisher in a battle over the future of the book industry.
So helpful!
Thanks for reading, Anne!
The problem is that publishing is a very crowded space, and everyone tries to successfully do (in most cases) their marketing, taking advice from articles like this one, so we are back to square one. The real problem is that there is not a good mechanism to filter out bad and good books, except (a little bit), reviews from known objective review shops. But those reviews do not have the impact they should. I look at publishing my book, “This Life”, and have good reviews from Kirkus and Indie Reader. Using them, I looked for an agent but did not help much; I am a mister nobody – that is what really counts for agents.
I agree with your comments, though the whole “mister nobody” is a thing so many authors face, you have to keep pushing – which I realize sounds exhausting but done incrementally is very doable. Good luck!
Selfpublishing is hard for sure, especially standing out in the crowd. But I’ve searched up your book, and (as a graphic designer) kindly want to point out tip number 1 in this arcticle. Cover design. That’s exactly A factor how agents/readers filter the bad and good books. Not to offend you, but just wanting to help by being honest. I also can’t find your book on Goodreads (excellent place to be at, at least).