As publishers and writers, we understand that if readers don’t know who we are, or what books we have on the market, we won’t sell many. Publishers have a number of advertising methods: memberships in writers’ groups, information tables at conventions and book fairs, advance reader copies (ARCs) sent to reviewers, email notifications to subscribers, author spotlights on websites, blogs, tweets, Snapchat, and the like.
Many authors employ most of those methods, too. Online marketing is important, but I’d like to talk about something that’s up close and personal, namely on-site, or in-person, marketing. People (and potential readers) genuinely seem to enjoy meeting authors in the flesh. When I’m at events with my books, lots of people look at me and say, “You’re the author?” I’ve even had a number tell me, “I’ve never met a real author before.” Meeting readers face to face sets you apart from those who strictly market via the Internet.
Joining the Twin Cities Sisters in Crime is one of the best things I’ve done as a writer. In addition to the valued friendships and great support I’ve gotten, we do a large number of events each year, including author panels at libraries and other venues, book fairs, and we get invitations to speak individually to a variety of groups. The networking is amazing. In 2016, I was the featured reader at one of our meetings, on five mystery author panels in Minnesota and Wisconsin, part of a holiday literary sale, at the SinC table at the MN State Fair and the Twin Cities Book Festival, and was one of the authors at a St. Paul bookstore for afternoon of readings and discussion.
Over the years, I’ve developed good relationships with bookstore owners and librarians. They’ve graciously hosted me at book signings and speaking events. I did eight this year. I’ve met people at book fairs, art and craft fairs, or other places, who have invited me to be the guest author their book clubs. I was at four this year. And presented writing techniques classes, and talked about my writing, to students in three schools. I was on the local radio station, and my articles announcing a new book release were published in area newspapers—because they want to support a local author.
Another valuable marketing tool is attending writers’ conventions. Readers, librarians, bookstore owners, publishers, editors, and others attend as well. This year I went to three mystery/crime conventions. They were Malice Domestic, Bouchercon, and a “Pitch Your Project” in Hollywood, organized by the National Sisters in Crime. I’ve been on well-attended author panels at conventions the last few years. They’re fun, and it’s a wonderful way to connect with other authors and new readers. The downside is they aren’t cheap and it’s a time commitment. I spent twelve days, including travel, attending this year.
I am not a naturally out-going person, but I want to get my books in the hands of as many readers as possible, and I’ve learned people are more apt to buy books from a less-than-famous author they meet in person. I decided to go to more art and craft fairs in 2016, and registered for six. Two were far enough away to necessitate staying overnight. I sold a lot of books, added more names to my email list, and got new readers in different parts of the state. I’m looking forward to checking out new places next year. I already have ten events scheduled, including two mystery conventions.
In-person marketing involves a great deal of planning and preparation, especially if you are the presenter at an event. It can be physically demanding, but it’s also very rewarding. It is one piece of a complex marketing puzzle, and I’d encourage you to check out opportunities in your area. Visit libraries and bookstores, or send them letters with information about yourself and your books. Groups are always looking for speakers, and writers are a great choice. I’ve had to step out of my comfort zone many times, but the more personal marketing I do, the easier it is.
I’d love to hear your marketing stories.
Christine Husom is the author of the Winnebago County Mysteries for Indigo Sea Press
Indigo Sea Press Blog 
Really great post Christine!!! I totally agree with you and know other writers in ISP can benefit from this information. Even for those who are not mystery writers, there are other organizations and conventions for them to attend. I’ve been to both Malice Domestic and Bouchercon and can highly recommend them, also. In fact, I went as a fan before I was a writer and learned a ton of helpful information about writing and the business of writing. The opportunity was available to query several agents before I landed my own, whom I met at Malice. My first editor, too. I also met my favorite authors and struck up lasting friendships. Two author friends even blurbed my book when it was published. I remember, while I was in the process of writing my book, taking the weekend off and attending a convention infused me with ideas and enthusiasm! There’s nothing like being totally surrounded by people who love something as much as you do!!!
Thank you. Coco, you are so right. And there are many, many conventions and conferences to fit different genres. I think they’d be valuable, even if it’s not specific to your genre.
Mossy of the people I meet at events are writers, but I always ask how they market their books and I’m always grateful for advice. Thank you. And I’ll work in crawling out of that comfort zone. (To be honest is love to give a talk if only someone would ask me. )
Sheila, you can contact book clubs, bookstores, and libraries, seniors groups, etc, and let them know your’re available. I send out letters to bookstores and libraries when I have a book release, and have gotten a number of gigs that way. Good luck, and remember, you can do it!!
Thanks. That sounds worth a try.