Knowing how to launch a book the right way is something every author is looking to figure out, even those of us who have a solid backlist of titles because the market changes, industries change, news and popular culture play an important role, and what works in marketing and promotion definitely changes.
So I want authors to know that there isn’t always going to be one secret to success every single time, but I’m dedicated to sharing strategies that I’ve tested and that have worked well for me and the authors I collaborate with.
The Latest Trick for How to Launch a Book
I say “trick” but this is really not a new concept. I’ve been testing it, however, and it’s worked so it’s new for me to promote so wholeheartedly.
Please note, I’ve written other pieces about how to launch a book with pre-order strategies before, so be sure to check the Resources section at the end of this post to add even more depth to your plan for your next release.
For now, I want to focus on the WIIFM (what’s in it for me) marketing principle that every single author needs to get intimately familiar with.
Increasing engagement, increasing your followers, increasing your newsletter sign ups, increasing sales, increasing reviews – these all require that you give your audience something worth their time, effort and loyalty.
That’s just the reality, and when you think of yourself as a consumer and not as the author on the receiving end, I’m sure you’ll realize how true this is.
Understanding Who Your Buyers Are
Figuring out how to launch a book the right way, specifically if you want to push for pre-orders and that lucrative bestseller ranking, means you need to figure out a WIIFM offer that will really resonate with your target buyer market.
This is a great brainstorm, in general, for your ongoing marketing and not just for how to launch a book with more success. I’ve written about bonus content and special promotions before, and this plays heavily off that concept so once again, be sure to check the Resources section of this post.
If you write non-fiction, your offer should be a bonus that supports the topic of your book or the problem you’re trying to solve for your audience. Yes, you could do something only semi-related but you’ll miss out on the psychology behind helping them make the easy choice to buy.
If you write fiction this gets a little trickier sometimes. If you already have a strong follower and fan base of people you know will buy your next release and you just want to push them to do it in a shorter time period to improve your seller ranking, you have a lot more options for the kind of bonus content you can offer.
If you are a new fiction author and don’t have a lot of return buyers, you have to be careful to not offer something too brand-centric. Meaning, if people don’t know they love you yet, offering them something super specific to your story or characters may not be a big enough draw.
How to Launch a Book with this Strategy
Now, how to launch a book with a killer WIIFM concept!
It’s not as top secret as you’d think. Essentially, what you need to do is set up a very strong, short-term promotional plan to get the word out about your pre-order period and the bonus content buyers can get for purchasing your book before the release.
Yes, some of you are thinking, “That’s the big secret? Easier said than done.”
But it’s really not that complex:
- Figure out a solid WIIFM offer. In fact, think of 2-3 and get some feedback from friends or colleagues that understand what you do and who you write for.
- Figure out the logistics of confirming purchases and delivering the bonus.
- Plan out how you’ll get the word out – create a mini marketing plan and schedule.
- Shake off any fears you have of bothering people!
We all get busy but most of us mean well. I tell authors this all the time, especially when it comes to figuring out how to launch a book or build up reviews, you have to remind people multiple times – and most of us actually appreciate it when there’s a limited time to act.
The last step I want to add is:
- Be genuine and grateful. Make it as personal as you can. Don’t sell people, make them an offer they can’t refuse, let them know you’re doing it because you appreciate their support. And plan to send thank yous or a follow up of some sort to ensure you don’t let these newly interested and invested readers fall to the wayside.
The Next Level is Coming Soon
I’m working on a detailed video (maybe videos!) that covers this entire concept for my Master Amazon and Sell More Books Video Series so don’t worry, if you’re a Series member, we’ll dig into very specific ideas and examples for bonus content and tips on how to manage the logistics of confirming purchases and distributing your bonus. I can make this very easy for you!
If you’re not a member yet but want to be, email me at [email protected] and we’ll give you all the details!
Resources and Free Downloads
Book Launch Cheatsheet Free Download
Book Promotion Ideas for Irresistible Bonus Content & Giveaways
How to Market Your Book with 13 Pre-Order Strategies
Monthly Book Marketing Planner
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I say thank you for this informative content . really appreciate your hard work I .