How to promote a book?

Question

I have a publisher interested in my work, but they've asked me this "If we were to publish our book how would you help us promote it"
I've got one chance and really don't want to stuff it up.

Answer 1

This depends on what kind of publisher you are using. If you're using a self-publisher, that literally means they will ship you a box full of books and you are on your own.



If this is a traditional publisher, they mostly want you to help promote yourself. They can get your books distributed to libraries and major stores, but you'll have to organize book signings, local radio appearances, anything you can think of to get yourself out there.



Don't be afraid to ask what they mean. You don't just want to say "yeah sure" and then find out they want you to drive cross country on your own gas money. Communicate to them that you are willing to help as long as it's not too outrageous. They have people who can give you tips to get started, but you'll have to be willing to get out there.



Publishing is changing. This is the future that writers have to look forward to.

Answer 2

Publishers, unless you are a big name already, will do nothing to help you promote your book. You need to go out and meet the buyers at your local chain bookstores and the owners of the smaller independent bookstores. You need to try and set up readings at bookstores or any other venue that you can think of. Attend open mike nights and read a chapter of your book to the audience. You need to go and offer to sign the books a bookstore has on hand (this is called a drive-by signing and is actually very effective). You need to ensure copies of your books are supplied to reviewers (it's nice if the publisher does this, but don't count on it). If you know anyone that can get you on a local talk radio show to promote your book mention that to the publisher. If your books is sci-fi or fantasy tell them you will be attending Science Fiction Conventions in your area to promote your book. Ask them if they have any other ideas you might use.



Each step of becoming a successful author seems to be harder then the step before it. You finish writing and editing your work and think "boy, I'm glad that's over." Then you discover you have to market the book. You finally get the book sold to a publisher and think, "I'm out of the woods now." Then you discover that you are expected to market the book after it is published. It it's not one thing it the other.



Good luck with your work.

Answer 3

This is a question that more authors will be asked going forward.



Will your publisher market and promote your book? Absolutely. But now more than ever publishers are looking for writers who understand the marketing component and who will seek out their target audience to increase presence and book sales in partnership with the publisher.



Here's the most concise info on the subject: http://writeonepublications.com/store/#ecwid:category=0&mode=product&product=1242845

Answer 4

Perhaps things would get clearer if you responded to your publisher by saying, "What would you like me to do? I will be happy to assist with promotion in any way I can."



Let's hope your potential publisher does not come up with something irrational! But things are so bad in the book publishing business now (due to the recession) that it's possible your publisher is looking for all the help he/she can get.



Do let us know what kind of response you get, okay? And best wishes for a great succes for your book!

Answer 5

Contact Amazon

Answer 6

You'd contact local radio/newspapers and talk them into giving you an interview/writing an article about your book. You would also contact local book stores and ask if they'd consider allowing you to hold a book signing in their shops... you would also develop your own web site.