Blogging is one of the most popular strategies for marketing books today. But blogs must engage your readers if they are to be effective. Here are some simple strategies to make your blog connect with readers so you can sell more books. I’ve heard many people in the publishing industry say, “Every author must have a blog,” but is blogging really effective? Every author must … [Read more...]
Win CommentLuv Premium – Free Giveaway!
Update: The giveaway winner is Liane at candlemakingdiy.com. When I recently redesigned SellingBooks.com I looked at several plugins and add-ons to manage comments in WordPress, and finally decided on CommentLuv. Not long after that, Andy Bailey released CommentLuv Premium and I couldn’t wait to try it. I liked the free version of the CommentLuv plugin, but the premium … [Read more...]
About the Author: Writing Your Author Biography
Many readers are humanistic, meaning they are curious and they are people-persons who want to know something about the author before they read a book. People buy books from people they like—or at least think they would like—based on what they know about the author from his or her biography. Creating an effective “About the Author” page is a way to let people virtually meet and … [Read more...]
Free and Self-Hosted Blog Platforms
Decades ago independent business owners and aspiring authors had to build a good, solid reputation by word of mouth only. This was difficult, especially for those who resided in small communities. For most, it took years before they finally got their first big break. In today’s technologically advanced world, it is possible for anyone to build a huge network in a short period … [Read more...]
Publicity Made Easier
It is no secret that traditional publishers are leaving more and more of the publicity for a book to the author. If you go with self-published or print on demand books, all of the publicity burden falls on your shoulders. Trying to publicize a book while writing your next one can seem overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be that way. With just a little initial effort, every … [Read more...]
Let Bloggers Create Publicity for You
Here’s a terrific strategy to add to your public relations toolbox. Promise yourself that you’ll add bloggers to the list of people who you will contact for publicity. I know, I know. Some of you don’t care about bloggers or what they write. You care about ront-page coverage in your local daily newspaper. Or an appearance on a big show like “Good Morning America.” That … [Read more...]
Getting Bloggers to Promote Your Book
Bloggers can be a really picky bunch who don't respond well to pitches from people they don't know. They've spent so much time cultivating their readers, they aren't likely to share that influence lightly. But I have found that once you have a relationship with a blogger, they'll do just about anything in reason to help you. Authors, don't think about using bloggers to … [Read more...]
How to Comment on Blogs (and Drive Traffic Back to Your Author Website)
Everywhere you turn, you’re hearing about the power and influence of bloggers. They’ve taken over the Internet, and many rival traditional media as venues for authors trying to get their books in front of readers. Though guest blogging lets you take advantage of this trend, there is also another great way to get in front of bloggers (and their readers). How? By posting … [Read more...]
Build Your Platform by Guest Blogging
You've already heard a great deal about building your platform and especially about the benefits of blogging and writing articles to demonstrate your expertise to your audience. Still, you’re always looking for more ways to drive traffic back to your online presence, and ultimately to the bookstore to buy your book. Another excellent way to achieve this is by serving as a … [Read more...]
How to Bond with Your Readers with Blogs and Newsletters
Consultants and coaches spend countless hours thinking of new ideas to write for their newsletters and blogs. They all want to create a new idea and hop on a new trend. After all, we all want to be thought of as smart and helpful. But did you know that the best way to bond with your readers is to show them that you are human? It’s true. I’ve been writing on the web for … [Read more...]