If you’re definitely considering self-publishing your book, you should already be checking off items on your book launch to-do list! Much of the important groundwork for marketing your book should be in place well before your publication date. The experts at Self-Publishing Relief have the best tips for planning and pulling off a great book launch. Be sure to check off everything on this list!
Your Book Launch To-Do List—And The Tasks You Must Not Skip!
6 Months Ahead
Start checking off these important preliminary tasks:
[] Start interviewing self-publishing companies.
If you’re going to hire a company to help you navigate the self-publishing process, start researching the possibilities now. Determine your budget, make a short list of good candidates, and schedule interviews to get answers about how much it will cost, how much time it will take, and other important questions. Choose a company and set a tentative publication date.
[] Launch or update your author website.
If you don’t already have an author website, make it your first priority to get one up and running. Your author website is the hub of your online presence and your promotional activities. If you already have a website, make sure it’s updated with fresh content and information about your new book. It’s never too early to promote your forthcoming book!
[] Gear up your social media.
A smart promotional strategy must include harnessing the power of social media. If you’re not already doing so, start posting and tweeting regularly NOW. Mention your forthcoming book in about one out of every ten posts.
[] Set up speaking gigs and book signings.
Promotional events such as book signings and readings are key to your visibility and success as a self-published author, but library and bookstore calendars can fill up quickly. Book these events well ahead of time.
[] Schedule your launch party.
Whether you plan to have a traditional in-person party or an online launch event, schedule it now. It’s a party, but it’s also serious business—even if one of the benefits is to reward yourself for a job well done! Set a budget, pick a date, book a venue, and start talking it up on social media and your author website!
3 Months Ahead
About three months before your projected publication date, it’s time to make some targeted connections!
[] Prepare a mailing.
Once you have a publication date, send out an announcement to your own mailing list. If your budget allows, consider purchasing a larger, targeted list from a company such as BookBub. If you don’t have an exact date, you can still get the word out: Available in Spring 2019!
[] Reach out to friends and family.
Is your mother a photographer who can take your publicity photo? Do you have friends or neighborhood business owners who are willing to cross-promote? Maybe your uncle is willing to talk up your forthcoming book at the local senior center. There are many ways the people in your life can help you with your promotional efforts; all you have to do is ask!
2 Weeks Ahead
It’s coming down to the wire!
[] Build interest and excitement for your book.
Host a contest for your fans! The prizes should feature copies of your book.
Launch Day
The big day is finally here! Put all of your plans into action.
[] Engage your fans and followers. Make the big announcement on social media and let everyone know where they can purchase your book. Then, enjoy your launch party!
Once your book is successfully launched (and you’ve had a nap!), keep readers connected by maintaining a regular social media schedule and continuing to build your mailing list. A healthy mailing list is key to repeat sales, so you’re sowing the seeds for your NEXT book’s success!
Question: What other tasks should be on our book launch to-do list?
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