Marketing?

Publishing the book is only half the battle. Effort must be expended to let people know about the book and want to buy it. The author should be willing to use all the established marketing techniques available such as Website presence, radio and TV interviews, direct mail, reviews, news releases, lectures, advertisements, etc. Some of these techniques cost very little actual cash - just time. Others require a budget.

We can help you with your marketing. Generally, we do not become involved as we specialize in publishing. Marketing is another expertise. However, we have put together a general marketing outline which can be used as a guide for our authors. Then you can do as much or as little marketing as you feel necessary. It depends upon your book and the market you intend to reach. Some books sell themselves. Others appeal to a niche market that is very easy to reach. We will advise you, but you will have to determine your own marketing strategy and carry it out. Remember, when you self-publish, you retain all profits and stand to make more than an author receiving a small royalty — especially if you have active sales.

If you allow us to host your Website for a year, we will produce a 2 page Website for you at no charge. We will also include your book on our Website here if you can provide a link for buying the book. We do not sell books but will gladly lead potential buyers to your site or a site such as Amazon.com.

You should join the Publishers Marketing Association. They are a very good source for marketing information for small publishers and offer cooperative programs.

Check out the Biblio Distribution people and Greenleaf Book Group LLC for marketing and distribution help.

As soon as your book is prepared and being printed, you should enter your book in “Books in Print.” You should also set yourself up as as publisher at Bowker’s. We provide these services for our clients free of charge. Check out other Bowker services at their site.