As an independent author, I'm well aware of how difficult it is to sell and promote your books. Here are a few of the ideas I've come across or utilized during the past six plus years:
1. Get some business cards; make sure they look attractive and professional. Offer one to everyone you meet.
2. Visit libraries and book stores; tuck one of your business cards into books with genres similar to yours. ( ie: Romance, Sci-fi, etc. )
3. Donate copies of your books to local libraries, and volunteer to speak about your book and your writing.
4. Keep an eye out for author events such as book signings, panels, speaking engagements, etc. and sign up.
5. Donate books to charity events such as raffles and auctions.
6. Attend events related to your genre, including conventions, conferences, writing groups, comic cons, etc. Be prepared to do readings, be on panels, or to speak about your books.
7. Investigate the possibility of speaking at book clubs, local colleges and schools.
8. Post flyers about any events that you are going to attend or hold. Post online as well.
9. When someone asks you what you do, be prepared to give a concise explanation of your work. Hint: Do not be long-winded--that's the kiss of death!
10. Trade books with other authors, preferably of similar genres, with the promise to review each others work. Caution: many people will renege on their promise!
11. Do not be tempted to buy reviews! Readers can spot a phony miles away. It makes you look bad!
Of course, not all of your efforts will succeed, but these tips are well worth a try. See what works for you. Keep trying; keep thinking; most of all, keep writing!
MRTighe
