Actually writing your book is only the beginning of the process of becoming an author.
Yes, it gives you authority, it’s a great marketing tool – but like any tool it doesn’t work if it’s sitting in the tool box. You have to get it out and use it.
The launch
This is not the time to be a shrinking violet and only mention you’re writing a book now and then. During the writing and editing process you should be sharing what you’re doing every chance you get.
Better still, encouraging people to join your list, so they can benefit from the launch offer.
The launch starts at the same time you start planning your book – even though it may be several months before publication.
You’ll need an email campaign, a social media plan and clear messages for any networking you’re doing.
You might need a lead magnet and an ongoing, value-led, nurturing campaign to tempt people to give you their email addresses.
Yes, it’s going to require planning, creativity and hard work, but the reward is lots of book sales and, maybe, some new clients.
Marketing and promotion
If you’ve done your launch properly, you will be glowing with success. But you’re not done – you need to continue to promote your book.
That means ongoing social posts, emails reminding people about it, including it in your networking presentations, looking for opportunities to step up as an author/presenter, including it in your client or onboarding packages – and more.
Are you actively doing PR for your business? Would your book be a good jumping off point for thought-leader articles in publications your ideal reader looks at?
Leverage the content
Could your book become a speech, a workbook, a webinar, a workshop or a course? Is it the foundation for a membership programme?
Why do the work twice, when you already have the material ready for repurposing?
There is no end point for a book – while it’s in print, it need promotion, marketing and has the potential for turning into additional income sources.
As the saying goes ‘start with the end in mind’ and start building your community from the day you decide you’re going to write a book and make marketing a habit, not a chore.
