We all think we’re special—that some rules don’t apply to us. In light traffic, I sometimes dart across the street between crosswalks. I’ll step off the curb knowing it is frowned upon and maybe illegal. I don’t always remember to carry my reusable grocery bags into the supermarket. I know people who do not recycle, who smoke in restricted areas, who roll through stop signs and who open packages to look at an item in a department store and then insist upon buying the one that has not been opened.
There are also hopeful authors who do not believe they will have to promote their books. Or they cannot see any reason to prepare for the massive task of book promotion because they plan to promote online only—through their simple website, by blogging and through word of mouth among their discussion groups.
I’ve known authors who had a list of a dozen people who definitely wanted copies of their books when it was published, and they thought this was an omen that the book would be popular. When push comes to shove, however, most of those friends/colleagues do not purchase the book. Other authors actually believe that the book will sell itself. Truly, I’ve had people tell me that. But what these authors don’t get is that they need to make people aware of it before they are inclined to buy it. Even if there was a book produced that readers would want immediately upon seeing it, there’s still a need to somehow bring it to the reader. They are not going to buy a book they do not know exists, now are they?
Ignoring the reality of book promotion is like stepping off of that curb at night wearing dark clothing to cross the street in heavy traffic. It’s just not a good idea. It’s not going to get you where you want to go. It will not lead to a positive destination.
One reason why serious book promotion is so important today is because of the tremendous competition. Those who are out there showing off their books and asking for the sale are more likely to make the sale.
If you have a book in the works, in your hands or on your mind, you need to study the reality and process of book promotion. Promoting a book is more than simply telling a few buddies about it. It takes study, understanding and generally an open mind. Book promotion requires creativity and energy. Oh yes…and it takes plenty of perseverance.
I suggest starting your journey into the world of book promotion by studying the over 250 tips, techniques and resources in my new book, Promote Your Book. Herein, you’ll learn the basics of book promotion, what you can do before your book is a book to make it more salable and you will be guided in picking and choosing those promotional activities that will work for you and for your particular book.
Check it out here:
http://www.matilijapress.com/PromoteYourBook.html
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