Exactly six months ago, on November 28th, 2020, I released my first book, Plunge – One Woman’s Pursuit of a Life Less Ordinary. It has been an interesting, fascinating, and disappointing ride all at once. Like real life, being a published author has ups and downs, highs and lows, thrills and anguish.
I write more about those sensations and experiences in my monthly writing updates, every first Wednesday of the month, something I have been doing for many years. Initially, I wanted to touch on the topic of promotion there, next week, but it would make that post too long. Hence, my promotion tips and realizations get their own article.
When you have several marketing attempts going on, it is difficult to point your finger at which method actually created sales that week. Efforts put in motion ages ago might have an impact now or in the future. But certain boosts correlate with certain initiatives, so after six months I have a good idea of what works for me; where to prioritize my undivided attention and precious time. This doesn’t mean you will prefer these methods or that you will reach the same results, though.
A bunch of Plunges
Here are ten promotion approaches I tested, with mixed success:
1. Your Own Channels – Email List, Social Media, Blog
Most authors don’t like to boast about their skills or push their products (books), but to get the word out, you have to start somewhere. Announcing that you just published your book after several years of effort, time, dedication, energy, and anticipation is HUGE. Posting this feat on your blog, Facebook page, Instagram account, and Twitter feed is easy and exhilarating and it will produce positive responses and initial sales. For me, the most in any month to date – the buzz created by putting the eBook on pre-order helped as well.
Facebook Banner
I also sent a group email with my huge Plunge news to all the contacts in my Outlook address book. Not only did this sell a few extra copies (I think), but it was a good time to touch base with people I hadn’t heard from in years.
Of course, you only release a book once and you don’t want to bombard your friends with constant reminders that, yes, they should buy and read your book. So, after the initial excitement, you have to find a balance on your own channels. I have slacked on Instagram and Twitter, but I post something about Plunge (a new review, an exciting development, a photo, or a reminder) about once a week, hoping to encourage friends who haven’t discovered my book, to check it out. Once a month, I also write a writing and promotion update on this blog. I don’t think these efforts sell more books, though.
A newsletter would fit in this category as well, but these are more beneficial for series authors and they demand a lot of time, inspiration, and creativity. My writing update blogs serve a similar purpose.
2. Facebook Groups
Facebook groups have been my main focus to advertise the last couple of months. I have never paid a dime (yet) on ads, but I have invested a lot of time and research into several groups that interest me by engaging in conversations, liking photos, and offering advice. For months, if not years, in certain cases. Most groups do not allow promotion of any kind. But there are about 25 in my list that provide members permission to mention/push their book either any time in moderation or once a week/month, as a separate post or as a comment to a thread started by a moderator.
Creative posts on groups
This method of promoting Plunge has been relatively successful for me, depending on the group (the sailing niche worked best), time of day, and focus of the post. You have to come up with different, attractive content leading to the purchase link. Adding a photo helps as well. It’s either that or a preview of the link, which makes it easier for the reader to click on.
The negatives: I don’t want to overdo this to avoid being annoying and I feel that my Facebook audience has been exhausted. Plus, in the groups that actually provide exposure to tens of thousands of members, your post disappears (falls down the cracks) immediately, unless it receives enough likes or comments to remain active and at the top of the page.
3. Help from Friends
I totally appreciate friends and family buying and loving my book. It makes my day. Thank you, everyone! People in my circle can help out even more by leaving a positive review (see underneath), sharing their feedback on social media accounts, and/or spreading their delight by word of mouth. Many readers decide on buying a book when it comes recommended by people they like and trust. I have sold a few copies this way, but I’d love to increase that amount! Sharing is caring. ????
Margie & Plunge in the Dominican Republic
4. Reader Reviews
Reviews are a way to show appreciation and support for the author. Just like with other products, potential buyers put weight in honest reviews. Just a few lines are enough to share your feedback about a book and encourage others to give it a try. Amazon (if you’ve spent $50 a year) and Goodreads are places where this is easily achieved. The more four- and five-star reviews a book page shows, the more attractive the item appears. This means customers’ reviews, indirectly, create more sales.
Better results are achieved when this review is posted on a reader’s blog or social media channels as this reaches an audience directly. I am confident that I sold a few extra copies because fellow bloggers put their review of Plunge on their own website. Thank you, Jacqui, Marian, and Debby! (My apologies if I forgot to mention you, please let me know in the comments.)
Amazon reviews
5. Magazine Reviews
From the moment I published Plunge, I sent free review copies (eBook or paperback) to about ten (boating) publications. Some editors have read the book by now and published their review. Others are still pending. This is a work in progress, as I’d like to get my memoir in the hands of as many interested magazines and newspapers as possible. One thing I can tell for sure: each time a review of Plunge appears in print, my sales get a boost for two or three days.
When it comes to book reviews in respectable magazines, I’ve noticed that it makes a difference when published in print (people read the entire magazine) as opposed to online, on their website, which doesn’t seem to garner much traction, if any at all. So, while I did have a decent presence in the press these last months – which is what I share on social media and which seems like amazing publicity – it doesn’t always lead to a noticeable increase in sales. But I take it!
6. Magazine/Newspaper Features
Isn’t it fun and satisfying to see your face, your book cover, and/or your life story in the press? It is. Yet, I don’t think it leads to many extra sales. To date, I was interviewed for a Belgian newspaper and a local, glossy magazine in the US. I can count the amount of people who told me they read either story on one hand. I think I have to go national with this to make an impact!
7. Guest Posts
Guest posts were my initial attempt to promote Plunge, because I made a lot of connections in the blogging world over the last six years, which led to amazing buddies interested in featuring me. (I have been blogging since 2007, but back in the day it was all about sharing my sailing adventures. Friends were only made in real life.)
Author interview on Dr. Sock Writes Here
While I hope to do a few more in the future, I paused this approach because it takes up a lot of time for little gain. I sold an average of one book after each of these posts went live, while I easily spent two – four hours writing the guest posts or answering interview questions, proofreading the text, selecting photos, and captioning them.
8. Presentations
I have only done one presentation, online, via Zoom, back in January. It was extremely time consuming to put together and stressful to present. It was my first time ever to be a panelist at a webinar. My conclusion: not worth it. The presentation was lightly attended, the video recording on YouTube has few viewers, the event was/is barely publicized anywhere, and I don’t think I sold one book as a result. Maybe doing presentations in person, where I can sell and sign physical books will be more successful and rewarding? The prep would still require huge amounts of work and energy.
SSCA Webinar Poster
9. Top Ten Lists
Honestly, having your book mentioned in a Top Ten List is incredible! The same goes for having it picked as a book club choice. Yet, I have no idea how to go about it or even realized this happened. In either situation, someone pointed me in the direction of Plunge being part of a Top Ten List of recommended sailing books and having been selected as the first ever pick of a New England book club for sailing women. These honors made a substantial difference in sales and I would love to reach more lists and book clubs. But how? I also happily join a virtual Q & A after any discussion.
WWS Top Ten Sailing Books
10. Influencers
To me, this is the jackpot of promotion – other than being discovered by a big wig. Unfortunately, I don’t have a lot of experience with it yet. I have reached out to several influencers (well-known sailors and travelers), who promised to read Plunge (which I provided for free) and – if they liked it – mention the book to their thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of followers. While this is a work in progress as well, one woman has obliged so far. Carolyn of The Boat Galley thoroughly enjoyed my book and posted a plug for it on her Instagram page (I’m still hoping for a mention on her super-popular Facebook page too ????), which spiked sales that day. In six months from now, I hope to share more good news about this approach.
Plug Plunge on The Boat Galley Instagram page
I have not used review sites/bloggers yet or paid for services. I need to make my publication investment back first. In the meantime, I continue to pitch my book and lifestyle experiences to the media (magazines, newspapers, radio, TV) and get in touch with more influencers. These two approaches, out of the ten mentioned, I believe, have the biggest potential for direct sales and success with them can be achieved by persistence. Of course, it is of the utmost importance that your story is attractive and well written, and that you believe in it.
Paperback Plunge
It is incredibly difficult to sell books as an indie author. So much effort and so little return… This month, I often worked six to eight hours a day on promotion to sell one book, which means I make about $3. Sometimes, it feels like I’m banging my head against the wall, when my Amazon kdp page shows yet another day with zero sales. I’m still energetic enough right now and have the time to spare, but once this becomes unfeasible – or I become too defeated demotivated or exhausted – I will take a break, or quit promoting all together, and let Plunge ride it out on her own.
Stay tuned for my monthly writing update next week, in which I will disclose some numbers. Feel free to share this article with other writers.
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May 28, 2021 at 12:06
A useful round-up of your experiences – confirms the truth that marketing is a long game and involves tons of effort! But keep going, I’m sure it will pay off.
May 28, 2021 at 20:02
Hi Jules! Thanks for swinging by, reading, and commenting. One day, I hope to create a more “tight” overview with less text and a pro/con table or something like that. It’s a thing I’m not good at, though, because I can’t help but weave personal experiences through it all, which doesn’t make for an objective article-style read. 🙂
May 28, 2021 at 13:14
I’ve had the best luck with local book signings at book stores and plan to do more after Covid. They often have several authors at once or let me read an excerpt. It doesn’t take much prep and if the book store promotes to their own audience, there is often a good crowd. You might try doing a seminar at boat shows too since you are boat related. The in-person stuff is work, but people definitely buy the book once they have made a personal connection.
May 28, 2021 at 20:08
Hi Kelly!
Welcome to Roaming About! Congratulations on your success during in-person events. I hope you can pick that up again soon.
I actually would love to join a group author project and signing. They don’t have anything like that going on right now at the library or the local book store, but I’ll inquire (or push) again in a month or so. I’ve just heard mixed opinions about authors actually selling books during events like these, but if the prep doesn’t involve too much time or stress, I’m happy to try anything! 🙂
Being able to land a seminar at a boat show would be huge. As long as I don’t have to pay for a crazy expensive booth! I might look into that. My issue is that I live on the road and am passionate about traveling, so I’d have to somehow put boat shows on our RV route if I ever want to make this happen. Thanks for the tips and insights!
May 28, 2021 at 15:50
Hi, Liesbet – Thank you for sharing this process with us. I am a huge fan of Plunge and have highly recommend it to others
May 28, 2021 at 20:10
Donna, thank you for all you’ve done for Plunge! You’ve been a super cheerleader and supporter. If I had badges for that, I’d pin one on you right now. <3 Have a lovely weekend!!
May 28, 2021 at 16:32
Like you, I have used a multi-pronged approach to marketing Mennonite Daughter. While sales markers in KDP reports are important, I’ve found the unexpected encouragement from readers to be equally valuable. (I keep a desktop file marked “writingENCOURAGEMENT” for that very purpose.)
But there is discouragement too. One potential reviewer asked if November (2019, mind you!) would be a good time to share her review; she has yet to respond. In fact, she doesn’t follow my blog anymore. Writing from our hearts makes us vulnerable, and it’s hard not to take things personally. My conclusion: We have no idea what is going on in other people’s lives, nor do we have the ability to decipher their motivation. We just do the best we can and celebrate the victories. In my view, you have made a big splash with PLUNGE, and I will continue to promote you however/whenever I can. Brava! 🙂
May 28, 2021 at 20:18
Hi Marian, my fellow memoir author!
I agree with you that recognition and kind words about our books from readers (especially if it includes a comment about how you made a difference in their lives) trump any sales. These messages are what put a smile on my face, more so than actual sales. Worth mentioning in a next post! 🙂
That’s too bad about that potential reviewer. Weird she doesn’t follow your blog anymore. Maybe it’s a coincidence. I’ve had many people tell me they’d write a review “soon,” but it never happens. I used to mentally keep track of these, but I have given up. Much healthier this way, haha.
You are totally right about life being busy for everyone. And, I have to be okay with whatever happens and not be too pushy! This would be easier if I was traveling, with distractions and enjoyment. I’m learning every day to find a balance and positive mindset throughout this new adventure!
Thank you, as always, for your continued support! I truly appreciate it.
May 28, 2021 at 18:03
Thanks Liesbet, for sharing. You have done a lot more to promote than many indie authors so I’m sorry to hear about the doughnut days. This is a marathon and it’s a very long one!
May 28, 2021 at 20:20
Hi Simon! Thanks for your visit and comment. You and I are in the same boat and we are trying our best to make a difference and doing well with our travel memoirs. Except, you are actually still writing and seeing the big picture. I’m not sure I can handle a marathon. Not when Im back in travel mode anyway. I might, but I want to a good sprinter as well. 🙂
May 28, 2021 at 18:52
Hi Liesbet, Thank you for sharing your insights and real life experience of this process with us. Whether it’s a blog post or a book, we write because we want to write and share. Publishing Plunge is a huge achievement. I’ll continue to promote your blog and book whenever I can.
May 29, 2021 at 11:51
Hi Natalie! Thank you for all your support – in the past, the present, and the future. You are right that we mainly write because we enjoy the process of the act and the process of sharing our world/experiences/insights. When it comes to writing articles and/or to make money, it is not necessarily because I want to write, haha.
May 28, 2021 at 18:52
Lots of thoughts about this topic, Liesbet. I would agree that having an influencer in your corner is probably the best way to garner attention. While I haven’t landed anyone big, I have had some school administrators get on board. One of my former superintendents bought my book for all sixteen new teachers in his district.
Things have gone about the way I thought they would. Lots of attention initially for the first six months, but now the well has run pretty dry. The local paper wrote a nice article, and I made some public appearances that were rather fruitful. I went to Back to School Night the first year after I retired and sold a bunch of books that way. Of course, I knew a lot of parents after thirty-one years. I was touched that some of my former students (now adults) came that night to support me even though they no longer have any connection with the school. Another biggie for me was speaking at a retired teacher’s luncheon. Teachers are usually great about supporting one another. I also appeared at our county library to do a presentation and got some sales that way. I just went in and asked if I could do a book signing, and the librarian encouraged me to do a presentation instead. Besides talking about my career, she suggested I talk about the process of self-publishing. Because I spoke to groups so much during my career, that type of thing doesn’t intimidate me. I’m betting that there might be some sailing groups if you can get an in that way.
I had one fluke month where I had a large order (80 books), but I still have no idea where that came from. I’m guessing from a school district where maybe some administrator ordered it for all of his/her teachers.
I haven’t done a newsletter because I feel like that would be more appropriate if I ever get established. Another reason I didn’t was because I knew I was going to focus my energy on writing children’s books next. ( a completely different audience) In fact, I basically have stopped any efforts on my first book because I think the best thing to do is to keep writing. My first children’s novel is being edited right now. i also have started writing another book. I’m targeting tweens. (middle school). The plan right now is to give it a year of querying agents. If I can’t find any takers, I’ll probably self-publish. Above all, I’m learning and having fun. I have no illusions of becoming rich or famous through my writing. That’s not the thing that motivates me anyway. I still consider this a retirement hobby.
May 29, 2021 at 12:00
Thank you for sharing your experiences, insights, and wisdom here, Pete. It sounds like you’ve done really well with your educational book. The good thing is that this niche subject gets your foot in the door with the right audience. Between the content of your book, the way it’s written (I’m sure it’s a compelling read), and the support among teachers you have reached your full potential, unless you start promoting in wider circles.
That was a large order for 80 books!!! Wow! Congratulations!! Reading your process makes me wonder if I shouldn’t write a “how to” non-fiction book at some point. I know yours isn’t really one of those, but it would be easier to define and focus the right market, something I seem to struggle with as my topics in Plunge are quite broad.
I’d like to believe that I wouldn’t be too nervous if/when speaking to a crowd, being an ex-teacher, but I’m not so sure. I think it would take a few tries before I’d feel comfortable. You have your act together and I am so inspired by you!
I agree with your take on newsletters. I would only start one myself if I plan on writing more books. And, they’d have to be in the same genre. It’s all so much work!
I’m happy to read that writing is a fun pastime for you during retirement and I wish you all the enjoyment, satisfaction, and success with your upcoming books!!!
June 2, 2021 at 18:01
Thanks for your thoughtful response. I’m not sure why I sometimes get notifications and other times I don’t. I typically try to respond right away, but this seems to be happening with greater frequency lately. Writing fiction has been a whole different ballgame for me. The learning curve is steep, but I love the creative challenge of building something from scratch.
In some ways, I’ll bet we are wired somewhat the same, Liesbet. I’m never going to be on of those people who has a couple of new books every year. I respect that you worked so long on Plunge, and your traveling lifestyle probably didn’t allow for much downtime. I’m too anal to put my name on anything that is not my best work.
Much luck to you, whatever direction writing takes you next,
June 3, 2021 at 09:52
WordPress has a mind of its own, Pete. Just like Facebook, Google, Outlook, and anything that is trying to make our lives easier while actually making them more complicated. Or by being unreliable.
I had to smile at your comment, especially the mention of being “anal.” Yes, you are right. I am that way too. And, years ago, my husband told me to not use that word (as a non-native English speaker, I had no idea about the consequences or reactions of using certain words in public) with strangers – like the friends of my 80-year-old mother-in-law at the time – because it had unpleasant connotations. Since then, I have been opting for the word “meticulous,” except when among friends. 🙂
May 31, 2021 at 02:55
Hello Pete
I have been reading this thread with great interest and appreciate your input here. In person seems to be one way to go, once the opportunity is back once Covid is not an issue.
As I am British but living in Spain I plan to tap into the circuit of people who give talks to expat groups. These groups are often looking for speakers and your subject doesn’t necessarily need to be specific to the group, so long as there is a connection of sorts.
My friend who wrote a local guide has chatted to ‘The Dames’ (I guess that’s a womens’ group haha and the Gardeners and the British Legion, I think. He usually gets a free lunch and sells some copies of a book. Like you he is a retired teacher so it is second nature to him to talk to large groups of potentally rowdy folk haha, but I think all of us could probably manage it if we were able to prepare a talk in advance and duck behind a reading from our book. That’s what I am telling myself anyway!
Good luck with your new book.
June 1, 2021 at 11:42
Helen, I’m glad to read that you are getting valuable information from the comment thread as well. Pete is such a supportive and generous author! And, it’s great that you are planning in-person events once this is possible. We do need a tad of courage for that and the first time will also be daunting. Like your friend, I’m an ex-teacher too but haven’t had much practice with crowds lately. Good luck!
June 2, 2021 at 18:09
It’s great to touch base with you, Helen. It takes a certain amount of courage to put yourself out there in public speaking situations. I know a lot of people can’t do it. At the same time, I think when you throw yourself on the mercy of the court (tell an audience how nervous you are), they are usually quite supportive. For one, there are some people in the audience who will respect us for having the courage to share that sentiment and are thinking, “I wish I could do that.”
June 3, 2021 at 10:03
I totally agree with that stage fright/experience, Pete. Being strong and courageous does get us over certain thresholds. I remember thinking “I wish I could do that” in the past, so maybe, some day, someone thinks that about me being on stage too, haha.
May 28, 2021 at 19:57
Reading about all that you do to promote your book made me exhausted for you. It sounds like you’ve done – and continue to do – all the right things. Had you talked to other indie authors before you published so that you had an idea of what you were up against, or is this struggle a surprise? I wish I had some fabulous promotional ideas for you but I don’t.
May 29, 2021 at 12:07
Hi Janis!
I never really talked to fellow indie authors before I published, but I did follow one or two blogs by authors before I eventually published Plunge. I did read articles about the craft, some of which touched on promotion.
The entire process has pretty much been a lonely road, until I released my book, when people/friends/bloggers have been extremely supportive to spread the word or recommend it to others. All that being said, while I’d read enough about how promotion is harder than the actual writing of the book, it is difficult to imagine how much time it actually takes to reach the smallest results. “It’s a marathon,” everyone says…
Most authors have the added difficulty that they’d rather write the next book instead of spending so much time on marketing. I’m not doing that as I feel that I’ve invested so much time and effort in Plunge that I want to get it into the hands of as many people as possible.
Months, if not years, ago, I created a document with promotion ideas. Can you believe I have yet to look at this, after six month? So far, I’ve focused on ideas I had in my head or that I recently picked up. So, plenty more routes to follow before I quit. 🙂
May 31, 2021 at 03:00
I look forward to your update when you have chased up some of those ideas!
June 1, 2021 at 11:47
That’s on the agenda for the summer. If I’m not too distracted with more fun things. 🙂 Every first Wednesday of the month, I post an update of my writing/publishing news. I better get my post for tomorrow ready…
May 28, 2021 at 22:52
I’m glad you have preceded me in finishing your book! After following what you have been through on the promotion end of things, I have pretty much decided that if an agent or publisher doesn’t materialize for me, I will put my book to bed before I go through the self-publishing route. Maybe I’ll change my mind, but it sounds like such very hard work and so hard to get a return on it. I greatly admire your tenacity, resilience, and resourcefulness!
May 30, 2021 at 15:51
Hi Lexie!
It would be a shame that your book won’t make it in the hands of readers, so I hope you find an agent or publisher soon. That being said, every traditional author I know is also supposed to do and responsible for some of the promotion. So, having a publisher doesn’t mean that the work is done, unfortunately.
There are so many pros and cons to going indie or traditional on the path to publication. For me, I just feel like I’m terribly invested in Plunge and will try to make it as successful as possible. But, you have to be incredibly determined, focused, and tough skinned. At some point, I’ll have to leave it alone, though. Too exhausting!
May 30, 2021 at 20:56
I am too thin-skinned! Hoping to finish it up in the next few weeks of solitude and send off to my beta readers! Since my story is fictional and not about me, I don’t think I feel as invested in it … but we’ll see how I feel as I move forward!
June 1, 2021 at 11:16
Yes! The first step is to keep moving forward. How exciting that your story is almost ready for beta readers!!!
May 29, 2021 at 07:47
Putting a book out into the world is my least favorite thing about being a writer, Liesbet. That might sound strange to other writers and readers, but for me, I never like to be the center of attention. Writing has always been something I’ve done for myself. It’s brought me through some stressful times, even more so these days, so writing under contract with deadlines and expectations is a different world. That said, I’m thankful that I’ve had the opportunity to touch people with my words. You’re right about guest posting and the time it take to prepare. Influencers and book bloggers seem to creative the most positive results. These people will talk about your book which is great for someone like me who likes to stay out of the spotlight. 🙂 At some point, Facebook groups will disappear. Where will that leave the writer who uses that as their only way to connect? I had a nightmare experience when I tried to put together a FB reader group a couple of years ago. I had to shut it down do to childish and mean spirited actions, which seems to happen a lot on FB. Growing your email list is the only way to survive in the publishing world. That is the only sure way to get your words/blog posts, etc. out to your readers. Case in point, for whatever reason, I can no longer follow your blog. I have no idea what the problem is, but your posts no longer come to my feed. I thought about you this morning, so I went searching. My email list has grown by the thousands since starting my newsletter. These go straight to a subscriber’s email and most people check their email daily. I have great interaction with readers, one on one, which I’ve enjoyed. People will get more personal when they know their words aren’t being read by all of your followers. In the end, different things work for different people, but it sure can get exhausting trying to figure out what works best. Sorry to ramble! I hope you and Mark are doing well.
May 30, 2021 at 16:06
Hi Jill,
When you’re an introvert, I totally understand how the attention during a launch is taxing. And, either time flies incredibly fast, or you’ve been “cranking out” new books. 🙂 Between your day job, the writing, the publishing, family life, the newsletter, the blog, and the reader interactions, I can only imagine how busy you are and how overwhelming life is/can be.
The mentality on Facebook can be very rude, I agree. There are a few groups I am a member of, that are heavily regulated/moderated which creates a friendlier atmosphere. Some of them are supportive as well, which, us being “lonely” writers can be helpful.
Having a newsletter is the #1 marketing tool I keep reading about. And, I believe you and others that it’s the best way to reach readers and interact with them. Part of me would really enjoy putting them together once a month or so. But… if you only have one book out and you’re not planning to (immediately) write more books, there really is no value to it, as – presumably – the members of your newsletter already read your one book. I definitely keep this in my mind for the future, though.
I see what you’re saying, about my blogs not getting to your feed anymore, while a newsletter would keep arriving in your inbox. Have you signed up to receive blog posts, in the right column of my blog, by leaving your email address there? I thought this would have the same effect as newsletters. Of course, it wouldn’t solve the one-on-one interaction. I never thought about how some people might not like to post their thoughts or interactions publicly. That might be a good reason for a newsletter as well.
Thank you for your insights on this topic, Jill. You certainly know what you’re talking about!
May 30, 2021 at 18:39
Well, I appreciate the vote of confidence, but most of the time I feel clueless! 🙂 Yes, I have signed up using my email address. I have no idea why that doesn’t work, but I know I’ve had similar issues with some other blogs that request an email sign up. With all of your exciting travels and gorgeous photos, you have a lot of great content for a newsletter.
June 1, 2021 at 11:15
Thanks for the newsletter ideas, Jill. You’ve worked so hard to get where you are, ever since that submission in 2015! I’m so inspired by your efforts, determination, writing schedule, and publishing success. I hope you’ll be able to receive my blogs again soon. Maybe an issue with your mail client? Talk about something I’m clueless about… 🙂
May 30, 2021 at 20:57
Oh, this is me …!
June 1, 2021 at 11:16
🙂
May 29, 2021 at 09:47
This post will help many indie authors who are clueless when it comes to marketing their books. I admire all the work you have done in promoting your first book, Liesbet. My fingers are crossed that you will reap the rewards of all your hard work.
Something you have not mentioned, and because of the pandemic I know why, are book fairs. I’ve attended a few and had success with them. Hopefully, it won’t be long before they are back.
I wish you continued success with marketing Plunge.
May 30, 2021 at 16:12
Thank you for your kind words and wishes, Hugh.
It is my understanding that authors pay money to have a booth at a book fair, but maybe I’m wrong. Another issue – besides Covid – is our location. At the moment, we live in a small town and I have no idea where to find these books fairs.
Then, once we leave, we are full-time on the road again. I’d have to research where book fairs take place along our route and then plan our travels around that. Thing is, my focus right now, while being “stuck” in a room in a town, is Plunge, but once we get out of here, I really, really, want to focus on our explorations and (fun) activities again.
May 31, 2021 at 03:09
I hope you are able to get out onto the road safely again soon. You will be gathering new material for a new book. I have observed that writers do well when they publish a second book. Firstly they have something new to talk about so they can cover all the old ground with a clear conscience. Secondly, for every 10 sales of the second book they might get a trickle of sales for the first. I guess this is why publlshers sign authors up to a 3 book deal, there is momentum there. That said, I can’t imagine writing another book myself as the process has been exhausting. But never say never!
June 1, 2021 at 11:55
Hi Helen!
I have read those nuggets of advice and information as well about writing more than one book, especially on the WLM Author Facebook group. Most authors plan on writing more than one book (something I didn’t realize when I started writing Plunge) and are aware of the fact that they won’t earn any money or get traction or make their investment back until they have two or more books (of a series) out.
I’m not one of those authors. I have no second book in the pipeline and am giving it all I have to become as successful as possible with my debut memoir. It’s also why I’m not starting a newsletter (yet) or paying for ads. I’ll exhaust the other methods first. 🙂
I can’t wait to pick up my life on the road again. My feet get itchy after a month of being stationary…
May 31, 2021 at 03:47
Well, I’m glad to have read your last sentence, Liesbet. After all. that’s what life is supposed to be all about.
Yes, you have to pay a fee for a table at a book fair, but find one that suits Plunge and the customers it will attract, and you could do really well. I’m thinking a book fair in a coastal town that has a harbour and lots of boats. I’ve turned down book fairs, but only because I thought they were not themed towards my books, so don’t be afraid to say no.
June 1, 2021 at 11:58
Book fairs sound exciting, Hugh. I’d love to participate in one, in post-virtual times. 🙂 I’ll keep an eye open for them this summer, if I’m stuck here (in this coastal town) for much longer. Let’s turn a negative situation into a positive one!!
May 29, 2021 at 10:15
Thank you for sharing your self-publishing insights, Liesbet! I know you have worked very hard on every aspect of the book and its promotion. I believe you are on the right track with what you have shared and I also think once things open back up, your presence at a book fair would be successful for you. You are so inspirational and I need to get my review of Plunge finalized and posted…my goal next week after the holiday! Eventually I hope to finish my fitness book and you have given me some great ideas for promotion down the road. Keep forging ahead, my friend, now that summer is here and the pandemic is winding down, more people are going to be interested in reading more about sailing, travel, vacationing, and being outdoors!
May 30, 2021 at 16:22
Hi Terri!
I hope you’re right about the interest for adventure, travel, and leisure books becoming stronger as we will be allowed to travel more. I don’t know, though. Covid kept a lot of people at home, interested in reading books to pass the time. We will see what happens.
I hope you’ll be able to finish your fitness book later this year, maybe when the weather turns worse again in the fall? I’d rather work and write during colder weather than in the summer, but, in our case, I truly hope we can pick up our adventurous lifestyle again in the fall, so I need to put all my efforts and time towards Plunge right now.
Wishing you and Hans a lovely Memorial Day weekend!
May 29, 2021 at 12:46
Great list, mostly of opportunities I’ve never tried. Kudos to you, Liesbet!
May 30, 2021 at 16:23
Thanks, Jacqui! We all seem to have our ways to spread the word about our books. I’m fortunate right now that I don’t have too many other distractions and assignments to focus on, so promoting Plunge gets a lot of attention. 🙂
May 29, 2021 at 14:44
Thank you for sharing your experiences. I am just about to begin and I can see it will be a lot of work to make any progress! Good luck!
May 30, 2021 at 16:25
Thanks, Helen! For swinging by, leaving a comment, and encouraging me to trudge on. I wish you a lot of success in your writing, editing, and promotion journey. Creating a book is/can be a full-time occupation! We all have to make decisions about where to direct our attention and focus. What is your book about? Where are you in the process?
May 31, 2021 at 02:27
Hi Liesbet. Lovely to hear from you!
I have written a tribute to our dear old dog, Sid, called Sidney Delicious, the memoir of a Spanish rescue dog. I employed a professioanal editor and then when I got stuck with the formatting I asked for help from Victoria Twead at Ant Press. I am expecting the author’s proof to arrive today! I am sure I’ll be very happy with it after Victoria’s great input.
I will go live on Amazon very soon! Before I joined the WLM group I was finding it all rather daunting, and lonely too. It’s great to be part of this supportive network now and I love making new ‘virtual’ friends. I have signed up to follow your blog (I think!). My website has been a bit quiet recently as I concentrated on the last stages of publication. Now I need to spend some more time learning how to drive it!
I will follow your progress with interest and have a look for your book too!
June 1, 2021 at 11:37
Hi Helen! Wow, that was very soon, indeed. Your book, Sidney Delicious, is live on Amazon already, before I manage to reply to your comment. 🙂 Congratulations!!! It’s exciting to be in that position. At least the first few weeks of buzz. I’m wishing you a lot of success with the exposure, sales, and feedback. And, yes, you are signed up to follow my blog. Thank you!!
May 30, 2021 at 23:01
What about Twitter? I have noticed a lot of tweets about nomadmania and van living as a new thing.
I tried the Vancouver public library but they don’t have a copy.
Good evaluation of your strategies!
June 1, 2021 at 11:21
Hi Ann!
I am 100% aware of my lacking and cluelessness and efforts and time investment on Twitter. I keep saying that’s the next thing on my list that I will spend some time understanding and engaging in, but it still hasn’t happened. I even have a couple of free courses about Twitter bookmarked somewhere. One day, I promise! 🙂
The only way – so far – to get Plunge in libraries is by people who request it – or by me bringing or requesting a copy. If you are interested in reading my memoir and/or having it available at the Vancouver Public Library, please request it. Plunge is part of the library system and can be ordered as an eBook and/or a paperback by any library worldwide. At least, that’s my understanding. I’d love to get my book in the hands of people everywhere. Thanks, Ann!
May 31, 2021 at 16:43
I was talking to a sailing friend in Jacksonville who also writes. He says that sailing clubs are always looking for guest speakers. He thinks that would be a good way for you to promote your book. I think meeting people in person makes them more likely to want to buy your book. You have sold a few on the road, right? I mean once people get to know you, they’re going to want to know your story.
You have done an amazing job of continuing to promote Plunge.
June 1, 2021 at 12:02
Hi Duwan!
Thanks for the input and for bringing up the topic with another writing/sailing friend! There is a yacht club here in Newburyport. My brother-in-law used to be a member of it when he still had his sloop. I’ll have to chat him up about that – to get an in at the club – and about the boat yard – with marine store – where he kept his boat at. Gathering names and data would be beneficial. This weekend, probably. 🙂
You are right about the in-person approach. It’s my least favorite method, though. I’m better with the written word than the spoken word. Less nervous using those kinds of words also.
May 31, 2021 at 21:46
What a great post –
I love how you share your experiences because it keeps us feeling like we grow with you – you have a gift with this transparency
–
????????
June 1, 2021 at 12:07
Thanks for the compliment, Yvette! As you know, I have few taboos. If any. Plus, I find it important that people, whether they are bloggers, authors, journalists, or documentary makers should be transparent and not only share the good/the drama/stuff taken out of context. Not easy to do, probably. I hide myself behind being a non-fiction author, where, if I just report on what happened, what I experienced, what I thing or believe… I can’t go wrong. 🙂
May 31, 2021 at 22:04
I love your honesty and your sharing about your thoughts and experiences with marketing. I warned you, lol. I must say, you’ve been doing a lot more marketing than I have in a long time. I’d already reached that ‘take a step away from marketing and see how the books ride out’ point and still there. One day I’ll get back on. Thanks for the mention. too. <3
June 1, 2021 at 12:10
You did warn me, Debby! And, I have always taken your advice and cautions and suggestions seriously. I think I have to take advantage of my existing, remaining energy (and the fact that I’m not writing another book) to push Plunge as much as I can now. I have taken two months off from it earlier this year (February and March, when we were in Baja) and I know from experience that from the moment I hit the road again, it will be “Hello world and goodbye computer (for hours and hours a day)!” 🙂 You will get back to promotion – and you have so many books to focus on and utilize – whenever the time is right!
June 2, 2021 at 09:19
Lol Liesbet, just the truth. But you have your plans and you know what you seek to accomplish, all in your own time. Nobody is chasing us. And who knows, one day you might feel another book coming on! <3
June 2, 2021 at 15:39
That’s my favorite part about the promotion chapter, Debby, that there is no rush and no deadline. Awesome! Knowing me, I probably will write another book at some point, when I’m (temporarily) tired of traveling. Maybe whenever we buy that “dream” house in Mexico. 🙂
June 2, 2021 at 09:11
Liesbet, writing a book is hard work but sounds like marketing is another level of hard work. But I guess “no pain, no gain” right?…so keep up with the great work you are doing and keep promoting. It a fantastic book and just needs to be discovered by a wider audience. Reading all the great comments here you can feel the love with so many people rooting for you.
June 2, 2021 at 15:37
“No pain, no gain!” That’s how I see it, Gilda. Like everything in life, you have to work hard to reach results. If you have the magic trick to discovery by a wider audience, let me know. 🙂 In the mean time, I’ll keep plunging – I mean, plugging – away!
June 3, 2021 at 22:43
Interesting post, Liesbet. I think you’re doing really well in your marketing plan and it’s certainly okay to take a break when you need to. Promoting is a marathon rather than an all-out sprint, except for the buildup to launch day and the month or two afterward. As I’ve noted from some of the readers’ comments, it often comes down to how much time and energy you want to spend going forward, and how quickly you need/want to make your money back. I’ve also heard that influencers can really help boost sales, but it’s not something I’ve pursued. I’m really interested to hear how things have gone by your one-year anniversary with Plunge.
June 4, 2021 at 11:06
Hi Deb!
Oh, that buildup to launch day was sooooo intense and stressful. I am glad those days/weeks are over. It’s one of the nice things about promotion, you can do it whenever you feel like it. No rush and no deadlines. And the opportunities are endless. Fact is, the more you work, the more sales you accrue.
It has been very difficult to contact (as in get in touch and get a reply) influencers and it is even harder to make them commit – and actually do what they promised to do. You can only push so much before you piss someone off and – at the end of the day – it is up to them to even read, review, or plug your book. I guess all this means is that successful promotion is a combination of effort, determination, grit, and luck…
June 5, 2021 at 23:16
Hooray for you for being so dedicated with your promotional activities! I hate doing promos, so you have my respect. 😉 Here’s hoping you find a “magic” promo tactic that brings you lots of sales!
June 7, 2021 at 12:59
Thanks, Diane. I will let you know if I find that magic bullet that sells heaps of books. If there’s anyone who deserves respect, it’s you and your dedication, talent, and accomplishments as an author! 🙂
June 8, 2021 at 00:28
Aw, thanks! ????
June 9, 2021 at 12:05
🙂
June 15, 2021 at 23:18
Such a huge effort Liesbet. This list would be very helpful for anyone following in your footsteps. Cheering in your corner and grateful to Plunge for getting back on my reading track.
June 17, 2021 at 10:35
Thank you so much, Sue! I hope my “tips” can help others, but I’m fully aware of the fact that we all have different comfort levels and fruitful methods when it comes to promoting our books. Keeping my fingers crossed that Canada’s future is looking as bright as the US’s, so you can start traveling abroad again soon!
July 4, 2021 at 00:00
Hi Liesbet. As I mentioned in a previous comment, I find promoting and marketing my work overwhelming and intimidating, and I am in awe of your efforts. I have had the experience of self-publishing, as well as having my work published by a small press, in both cases poetry (which is very hard to sell). The self-publishing experience was more discouraging and expensive. Five of us collaborated on producing a volume of poetry on the theme of grief, and how to get through it. The poets did outstanding work, and one was a well-known, award-winning poet; I felt fortunate to work with them. We printed 1000 copies, and each of us took 200 of them to sell. I probably sold less than two dozen, and still have a box of the books in a closet. In comparison, you are doing extremely well. The problem isn’t with your writing or promotion, but rather with a society that doesn’t value writers, artists, and musicians and their work enough.
Jude