I’d like to discuss endorsements today. What is an endorsement and who needs them?
Most authors, at some point, find themselves asking for endorsements and maybe even giving endorsements or testimonials.
Your first experience with this might be seeking endorsements for a book proposal. Some publishers require that authors include comments of support from credible authors in their genre, professors and/or professionals in their field.
While you are finishing up your book, you might go in search of testimonials or positive comments from colleagues and experts to go on the back cover. These would be statements designed to entice people to purchase the book. Someone seeking a good nonfiction book on nearly any topic might purchase yours if you have a comment from a credible expert on the back (or front) cover.
I suggest that authors request more testimonials than they need. That way you can pick and choose the better ones. And you’ll be more likely to get enough comments in time for publication. Comments that don’t make it on the cover can go on an inside page and/or at your website.
How do you approach people for testimonials and endorsements? Often, you will send a draft of your manuscript to the people you request testimonials from. Or send the chapter(s) that represents that person’s expertise.
Some professionals who already know your reputation might ask you to write a few possible quotes for them to read and they’ll either choose one or make a few changes on one for you to use.
I tell authors to consider other authors with books when requesting testimonials or endorsements. The reason being that authors generally make time for anything that will publicize their own books. They are more likely to respond within your deadline than an expert without a book or service to promote. But you want to make sure that the authors you contact have credibility in your field and or they are popular authors with a following. This might be organization leaders with books on the topic, bestselling authors, well-known professionals or businesspeople with books, etc.
Successful people are busy these days. So if you are going to want a testimonial or endorsement for your upcoming book, be sure to put your request in early. And then follow up.
For more about getting and giving testimonials, read Promote Your Book, Over 250 Proven, Low-Cost Tips and Techniques for the Enterprising Author. Available at Amazon.com in print and Kindle as well as most other online and downtown bookstores.