3 Things Authors can do to Promote Their Books

 Tip #1: Blog – Most blog sites are free. You can use their templates to build your own blog site look and feel. I personally prefer to keep it as professional as possible – especially since I am a business owner promoting a brand (www.3LPublishing.com). I like Google’s blogspot (here). Other blog sites are available. Now some authors (depending upon their genres) may feel like their site wouldn't have enough content. In that respect, you can pull out themes from your book and discuss them. You can talk about the writing process. And if you’re really bored, blog about your dog, but just make sure you keep your blog content current. Lack of content makes your blog look abandoned.

Tip #2: Social Media posts. I have to admit that sometimes social media can be invasive what with people messaging me about private matters. I have even had moments where I wanted to de-activate my social media, but that would be a mistake. It sends the wrong message. It also makes you look like your book has gone out of business. You make you and your products less visible. Make sure you’re using social media to its fullest opportunity. Post book reviews, announcements, release dates, etc., and keep your name at the top of news feeds.

Tip #3: Regional book festivals. Participate in regional book festivals. Many of the smaller ones (like the Manteca Book Festival here in California) don’t charge much for the booth space ($50 in this case), and the exposure is worth the adventure. You are putting your book’s cover front and center and creating visibility for your product. The worst case is you spend an afternoon with a friend you bring along. But it’s an inexpensive way to get your book out.