You can and should promote your book as long as it’s available for purchase and the content is relevant.
Here are 5 things you can do to keep it in front of readers.
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The book launch myth
I’m surprised at how many authors put all their effort into the period around the publication date, then suddenly stop. They abandon the book, even if (or especially if) they’re disappointed with sales results.
That’s often because many, many authors have a misconception that they can only promote their book when it’s new. That’s the farthest thing from the truth.
Readers don’t care about your publication date
In reality, you can — and should — promote and market your book as long as it’s available for purchase.
What readers care about is that it’s a good book.
Here are five things you can do to promote your fiction and nonfiction books long after the launch has come and gone.
1. Pitch yourself to the press as an expert source.
If you’ve written a book on a topic, you’re an expert. Your expertise doesn’t have an expiration date. Your book is a long-lasting credential. But don’t wait for journalists to find you — go after them.
Remember, being a nonfiction author is not the only way to be an expert source. Novelists usually invest a significant amount of time in researching different aspects of their books. What were the most surprising lessons you learned from your fiction research? You can speak to the media about it with confidence.
2. Speak about your book’s topic.
No matter if your ideal readers are part of the Yoga Alliance, local Mom & Tots Group, or American Dental Association, find a topic that connects with them.
While this is often thought of as a tactic for nonfiction writers, novelists can also speak about top content.
Also read:
5 real good reasons to be an author with public speaking skills.
3. Do podcast interviews.
In all honesty. Authors who immediately become bestsellers are always busy, busy, busy. They prioritize their time for the most popular podcast hosts instead of being interviewed by everyone.
That leaves everyone else to interview everyone else, right?
Best of all, podcast hosts aren’t necessarily concerned about whether you have a “new book” credential or not to invite you. All they want is for you to be a good guest and bring something interesting to the table.
4. Guest blog.
Blog hosts want interesting, original content for their readers.
Your book doesn’t have to be brand new to give blogs what they want. The longer your book’s been out and the more you know about reader reactions, the better you can write guest posts that will interest readers.
5. Use social media to keep your book title in front of the right readers.
Avoid overwhelming people with marketing content on social media, but consistent, suitable, and modest posts will serve as gentle reminders that your book is available and worth reading.
You can also use social media months and months after your book is published to remind people to review it on Amazon, Goodreads, and other book community sites. Encourage them to request it at bookstores and libraries, too.
Don’t forget . . .
Readers don’t care if your book is “new.” All they care about is that it’s good.
Want to learn more about promoting your book? Check out our book marketing page.
What can you do today to promote your not-so-new book?
