10 Proven Ways to Sell Your Book (Without Feeling Like a Used Car Salesman)

Published on 30 October 2024 at 11:54

So, you’ve published or about to publish a book—congratulations! 🎉

You’re already ahead of most people who only dream of writing one. But here’s the big question: how do you get people to buy it?

No need to go door-to-door just yet!

With these 10 tried-and-true methods, you’ll be reaching more readers and boosting your sales, all while keeping it fun and simple. Let’s dive in!

1. Optimise Your Book Listing for Search Engines

Start with the basics: your book’s listing. Whether it’s on Amazon KDP, your website, or both, using SEO keywords in your title, subtitle, and description is key.

For example, if your book is a “psychological thriller,” use that term strategically in your description. According to Amazon KDP, books with keyword-optimised descriptions can see up to 20% higher sales.

📖 #BookSEO #SearchOptimisedBooks

2. Leverage Social Media (and Have Fun with It)

Did you know 74% of consumers rely on social media for purchasing decisions? (HubSpot). Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok are perfect for sharing sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes looks, and fun author facts. Use hashtags like #BookLovers, #AmReading, and #BookTok to reach your target audience.

📖 #SocialMediaForAuthors #BookTok

3. Offer an eBook Promotion

Everyone loves a good deal. Offering an eBook at a reduced price or even free for a limited time can lead to a 60% increase in sales in the long run (Publishers Weekly).

Platforms like BookBub and Freebooksy reach thousands of new readers looking for their next read.

📖 #eBookDeals #FreeBooks

4. Create an Author Website with a Book Landing Page

An author website is like your online HQ, and a dedicated book landing page is the door to your best party. According to HubSpot, sites with landing pages convert up to 55% more visitors into buyers. Load it with an engaging description, reviews, and links to purchase.

📖 #AuthorWebsite #LandingPageForBooks

5. Get Reviews and Social Proof on Goodreads

Goodreads is a mecca for book lovers—and a powerful SEO tool. More reviews can increase your book’s visibility, and books with 10+ reviews tend to rank higher in searches (Goodreads). Encourage early readers to leave honest reviews to help attract more potential fans.

📖 #GoodreadsReviews #BookRecommendations

6. Partner with Book Bloggers and Influencers

Book bloggers are today’s tastemakers. Reach out to bloggers in your genre and offer them a review copy—many readers rely on blogger recommendations. Plus, blog reviews can build backlinks to your page, giving your SEO a boost.

📖 #BookBloggerReview #BookInfluencers

7. Run an Amazon Advertising Campaign

Amazon accounts for over 60% of online book sales (The Bookseller). With Amazon Advertising, you can target readers by genre, keywords, and more. Well-placed ads mean your book shows up right when people are searching for their next great read.

📖 #AmazonAds #BoostBookSales

8. Use Email Marketing to Engage Readers

Have a mailing list? Perfect! Email marketing has a 38:1 ROI according to Litmus—meaning, for every £1 spent, you could earn £38. Share updates, special offers, and insights to keep readers engaged and excited about your book.

📖 #AuthorNewsletter #EmailMarketing

9. Create a Buzz with a Virtual Book Launch

Hosting a virtual book launch means no worrying about catering! Platforms like Zoom and Facebook Live let you reach fans from everywhere. Do a live reading, a Q&A, or even a prize giveaway for signed copies—plus, it’s a great way to build anticipation and sales.

📖 #VirtualBookLaunch #OnlineBookParty

10. Get on Google Books and Optimise Metadata

Google Books is often overlooked, but listing your book here means more searchability and visibility. Your book’s metadata (the keywords and descriptions) helps boost your ranking in search results, so make sure it’s optimised to catch readers’ attention.

📖 #GoogleBooks #BookMetadata

Wrap-Up:

Selling a book doesn’t have to feel like a sales pitch. With these fun, straightforward strategies, you’ll be reaching new readers and increasing sales without breaking a sweat.