What is book marketing?
Seems like I’m always hearing from an author who says, “I’m not comfortable with book marketing. I don’t like talking about myself — I’d rather just be writing.”
This isn’t unusual, and it’s certainly understandable.
I often advise these authors to remember that their goal is to promote the book, not themselves. Many will argue you that as the writer, you’re the brand, so the focus must be on you. From my perspective, if your goal is to sell books so that you can entertain, enlighten, educate, or inform (or reform!), then you want to focus on your book and all that it has to offer.
With this in mind, I was struck by this statement on author Joanna Penn’s website.
Embrace it.
Believe it.
Run with it.
I promise that it will make the process easier for those who are shy when it comes to book promotion.
What do you think of Joanna’s statement?
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The comment is right on. It reminds me of something I learned many years ago when I contemplated going into real estate. I was hesitant because I said I couldn’t sell anyone anything and didn’t want to “brow beat them.” Then someone told me that I wouldn’t be “selling.” I would be providing information so my customers could make an informed decision. I became a sponge, soaking up information so I could help others make good decisions. Now I enjoy “sharing what I love” about self-publishing.
Thanks, Patsy. What a great anecdote! It fits this perfectly. When I’ve worked with authors to re-frame it just as you have, I can almost see the light bulbs going off over their heads. It makes such a difference!
Sandy
As a marketer turned book publisher, I find the quote so enlightening.
It really makes sense when you’re marketing your own product, right Barbara?
Sandy