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19 Ways to Secure Non-Returnable Book Sales and Sell More Books

2009-02-05T14:00:00.001-08:00

Surprisingly, book stores are not always your greatest source of book sales. Most authors and publishers do want their books to be available in all of the book stores, and rightly so. You want your book to be there, too, but you want to sell more books. You want your book to be a "household name" ? a topic of conversation in coffee rooms and at dinner tables everywhere. Your publicity campaign is designed to create interest in your book, and to drive buyers to the book store market.

Unfortunately, those traditional book store sales aren't always "sold". The books might be returned over and over again. That's the sad reality of the book retail industry.

Your book's fame, however, can help you to acquire nonreturnable sales in the nontraditional market where a sale actually is a sale ? where sales of 25,000 copies and more are not uncommon.

Here are 19 Book Marketing strategies that will help you acquire those sales:

1. Write your book for a very broad market ? nonfiction works best.

2. Write a book that people will be happy to give as a gift.

3. Add as many photos and illustrations as you can afford.

4. Keep the topic light ? avoid heavy social commentaries, controversial topics, scientific theories and other "heavy" subjects.

5. Have your book professionally designed.

6. Have your book professionally edited.

7. Give your book a catchy name ? avoid boring titles such as How to Have a Happy, Fulfilling Life.

8. Make sure that the cover design is appealing, appears three dimensional and can compete with all of the major publishing houses. Hire a professional designer.

9. Sell the benefits of your book on the back cover. That is where you will sell buyers on the reasons why they just can't live without your book.

10. Price the book competitively in your genre.

11. Make your book look like it is good value for the price ? it's all about perceived value in the minds of the buyers.

12. Don't write for yourself ? write for the end buyer. Fulfill a need for them or make them feel better.

13. Think of the corporate market when you are writing. Make a list of corporations that can benefit from your book, and then contact them.

14. Submit your book to the book clubs at least six months before you publish.

15. Find an agent who sells to the gift market.

16. Find an agent who sells foreign rights.

17. Find an agent who sells to the display market.

18. Don't be afraid to offer large discounts on nonreturnable sales.

19. Seek licensing agreements ? they are a great source of income for no work on your part.

A professionally designed book opens many doors while an amateurish appearance closes many doors. It is vitally important that you invest in your book at the beginning to create sales in the long term. Plan for publicity and marketing before you print your books ? printing is not the final expense in your book marketing plan. It is the beginning. You can have the best book in the world, but if no one knows about it, no one will buy it.

Create a book that buyers just can't resist -- and then create a book marketing plan that makes those buyers BUY.

Ink Tree Ltd. helps authors publish, market and sell books. We have all the tools you need to succeed in book publishing. Let us help you make your book a success. <a target="_new" href="http://www.inktreemarketing.com">http://www.inktreemarketing.com</a>

Publishing Your Book?What Way is Best For You? - Part 2

2009-02-05T13:40:00.001-08:00

Your print or ebook is nearly finished. You wonder if you should try to get an agent to represent you to the publisher. Maybe you've already sent out your query letter to some agents. You dream how great it would be to be taken under the publisher's wings.

You've already read about what traditional publishers can and can't do for you. Now is a time for self-publishers who want a print book to check out Print On Demand or Print Quantity Needed.

On Print Books--Print on Demand Two Ways

1. Hire the Publisher/Printer yourself to just print your book from your word file. In Print Quantity Needed such as <A target="_new" href="http://www.deharts.com">www.deharts.com</A> (similar to POD) you keep all of your book's rights. This method helps you make much more profit from your effort and you will get your book out to the buyers so much faster, making faster profits.

2. Hire Full-Service Print on Demand Publisher/Printers who each charge you an up front fee to set up. They too take your word files and put into Portable Document Format.

The downside? Check to see if you need these services. You don't need an ISBN # if you sell from your own web site. The biggest down to me is no control over my book. Here, you must buy back each book from the printer/publisher at a wholesale price--almost half of what you will sell it for. So, your profits are limited.

List of POD Publishers to Investigate

1. <A target="_new" href="http://www.trafford.com">www.trafford.com</a> 888-232-4444 2. <A target="_new" href="http://www.IUniverse.com">www.IUniverse.com</A> 877-823-9235 3. <A target="_new" href="http://www.XLibris.com">www.XLibris.com</A> 888-795-4274 4. <A target="_new" href="http://www.infinitypublishing.com">www.infinitypublishing.com</A> 877-289-2665

These companies do not offer a good promotion plan. If you want to sell online, you'll have hundreds of thousands of eager book buyers ready to buy when you apply the number one, free way to promote your book--submitting articles to opt-in ezines and web sites. Contact a reliable book coach for this information.

On eBooks

If you sell your book as an eBook on your Web site or link it to other publishing web sites, you will make 100% of the profit.

FACT: In traditional publishing for print books, you must get a distributor, and a wholesaler to get brick and mortar bookstores to carry your book. The bookstore gets a percentage too. Maybe these costs will add up to 85%! What's left for the author, the one who wants to make a difference in people's lives?

Is there a drawback to self-publishing?

If you print it, you must pay for the printing yourself, but remember that could be as low as $300 for 50 plus books. Print on Demand and Print Quantity Needed print short runs from five to 500. Depending on how many that could run from $2-$5 for a book you can sell for $15. You'll only have to make a small investment, you won't have a huge inventory, and you can apply your extra cash to book promotion, the most important part of the book's journey.

If you write an eBook, here are some of the benefits:

Why Write an eBook Fast?

You?Make all the money, can make ongoing, passive profits for life, spend much less time writing and promoting, retain total control, share your unique, important message with 1000's daily, build your client base and credibility, reach your target audience easily and distribute yourself, spend less money and have more cash flow, finish your book within 30 days, make ongoing passive profits for life, can update your book when it needs it, become the expert in your field, gain trust, credibility and friends.

More benefits: you don't have printing or inventory costs, can use word in 8 ? by 11 format and PDF, don't have to travel, don't have to tell or sell, don't have to package and mail books, distribute and sell online from email or a Web site, no packaging, no printing, and no mailing

Promotion is always at least as important, if not more important, than your book. Drawbacks are starting to look like profits and a low cost investment for you. With PQN (you have all control, keep and distribute all the books) or eBooks you won't have hundreds or thousands of unsold books in your garage gathering dust.

Many people feel it's a drawback to have to market and promote their books. Yet, you can learn skills such as the sixty second "tell and sell," the promotional article or power press release, and the sales letter for your Web site from an already successful author-coach. Publicity agents charge a lot of money and tend to overdo the media kit, (media editors and reporters usually throw everything away except the news release).

You need to learn how to talk about your book in a few sentences, a few paragraphs, and a longer sales letter. You need someone who has authored and sold many books, one with long-term copy writing experience. But even if you spend $1000 for coaching, editing and printing, you'll still be able to realize a larger profit than the traditional route.

You the author need to decide what path is best for you. Make sure it's a profitable one.

Judy Cullins, 20-year book and Internet Marketing Coach, Author of 10 eBooks including "Write your eBook Fast," and "How to Market your Business on the Internet," she offers free help through her 2 monthly ezines, The Book Coach Says...and Business Tip of the Month at <A target="_new" href="http://www.bookcoaching.com/opt-in.shtml">http://www.bookcoaching.com/opt-in.shtml</a> and over 140 free articles. Email her at <a target="_new" href="mailto:Judy@bookcoaching.com">mailto:Judy@bookcoaching.com</a>

Five Tips To Consider When Choosing A Publisher

2009-02-05T12:40:00.001-08:00

Choosing a publisher probably seems like a complicated task, however, you may find the process somewhat less challenging if you consider the following five suggestions.

<LI>Research the legitimacy of your prospective publishers. Consider factors like: how long they've been in business; how many books they've published; what types of books they seek; how successful their published books are. etc...
<LI>Do not assume that the giant publishing houses, which put out more than 200 books annually, are your best option. The competition is obviously arduous with these organizations.
<LI>Refer to industry bibles like: The Writer's Market.
These respected resources will provide information like: what kinds of books each publisher prefers; contact information for editors; tips on how to submit your proposal and more.
<LI>Find books similar to yours and make a note of each publisher's name, address, website etc... Search for related books online at amazon or barnesandnoble.
<LI>Consult other published authors for their personal advice. You easily do this online by joining a professional association - you can find a list of numerous such organizations on <a href="http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art2583.asp" target="new">this page</a>.
You can also use the web to seek help from other writers by enrolling in a writer's group, participating in discussion forums, or asking for feedback in critique circles. You may find writing groups and professional associations for writers in your local community as well.

Resource Box - ? Danielle Hollister (2005) is the Publisher of <A HREF="http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art157.asp" target="new">Ezine For Writer</a> - A free newsletter for writers featuring news and links to the best resources for writers like - freelancing & jobs, free ebooks & software, markets & publishers, classes & contests, publications seeking submissions, self-publishing information, and much more. All new subscribers get one free ad. Read it - <A HREF="http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art157.asp" target="new">http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art157.asp</A>

Top 10 Ways to Know your Book Concept will Sell--Before you Invest Time and Money

2009-02-05T07:10:00.001-08:00

Make your book stand out from the crowd! Test your book's significance, find your market before you write, and treat your book as part of your business.

1. Test your book's significance

-fun, humor -easy to read -teach something interesting, new? -original, unique info? -potential to positively affect the reader's life? -create a deeper understanding of life? -give skills and info to help people? How to's sell well -do you already have an audience who wants it?

You only need 2 significances to have a book that will sell.

2. Find your market before you write.

Who out there needs or wants your information? Without knowing a preferred audience as your write, your writing may be too general and not compel your audience to keep turning pages. In my eBook "Write eBook or Other Book Fast" in ch. 3 --"The Essential Hot Selling-Points," I discuss how to gage which audience is best for your book.

3. Know your best audience.

Remember the 100,000's Online too. Write your audience a letter on why you are writing the book and how it will benefit them.

4. Keep your book short.

Most audiences want to learn something fast and easily.

5. Unleash your passion for at least 2 years for one book.

Love your topic and don't quit.

6. Get some help with a book coach.

Try an introductory 1/2 hour book coaching session for only $35.

7. Intend to have your book vision manifest.

Know your book will be published, name your outcomes-- what you will hear, see, and feel now that it's done and people are reading it. 8. Treat your book as part of your business. Make a plan -when to write, how much to write each week, when you will finish, what your next step is--approach a book coach professional. 9. Know you will eventually have to spend some money to make your book a top seller. If you work a full week, then see if you can put 10 hours a week in on your book including its promotion. 10. Solve your audience's challenge and you not only will sell a lot of books, you'll also have a 24/7 sales person for your book.

When you write your book aimed at your best audience, and spend enough time on it, you can produce a successful E or print book.

Promotion - Credibility Extras

2009-02-04T10:20:00.001-08:00

For many of us, marketing our titles is one of the most tedious tasks of being an author. Even authors who published with large New York houses are expected to take part in marketing and promotion. Many articles and several books have been written to give us guidelines. One thing all marketing experts stress is the importance of being professional.

Here are several extras that other industries use, and we authors should too, to boost our professional credibility. Remember BUYERS are your clients. Treat them as such.

LOGO -- What kind of logo for an author? Pens, stacked books, computer keyboards? Think more of your product and develop something that reflects the subject of your books. This is not something to use when you query for publication or representation, but AFTER you have a finished, marketable product.

PAPER GOODS

<ul>

<li>Invest in professional letterhead. Use your logo and give concise contact information, including e-mail and web sites. It should be 24# paper with matching envelopes. Use this for regular letters, and for any invoices you send out.

<li>Along with this letterhead, you should have attractive or matching business cards--again using your logo. Do not put your address on the business cards. Telephone, e-mail and web site is enough. Hand out these cards to anyone who glances your way.

<li>Do you have bookmarks? Use colorful card stock, and on one side put your logo, list your contact information (P O Box is recommended) and perhaps a friendly comment. On the reverse side, list your titles and a short (25 words max.) review by a third party. Use them for handouts, and include them with every book you sell.

</ul>

It's also important to make certain your books are always in the public eye. An easy way to do this is with flyers. Keep at least two varieties in your car (along with a tin of push pins).

<li>A flyer for your local region that advertises your book, your web site and you as a commodity (speaker, workshop leader, et cetera). It should list the places your books can be purchased.

<li>A flyer for when you're away from home that highlights your titles and where they can be found online.

Design the flyers with an angle to the time of year, the region or some other feature that will make them stand out. On both flyers, be certain all the contact information is in large non-frilly type. Mention any specials you can think up. FREE GIFT could mean an inexpensive bookmark thrown in, and you can encourage buyers to your site by featuring autographed books.

Put these flyers up on bulletin boards in libraries, churches, supermarkets, colleges...and any facilities that relate to your subject matter. Drop them off with local radio and TV stations, especially if you're available for interviews. Send copies to your regional newspapers.

Developing flyers isn't difficult with today's basic computer software. The best size is 5"x7". You can enhance a simple, white-paper printout by mounting it on a larger sheet of colored construction paper.

Fifty of each flyer is a good start, and shouldn't cost more than $5.00 (for black and white)--a bit more if you use commercial facilities.

FOLLOW UP -- If you have negotiated for your titles to be carried in independent bookstores and gift shops, it is a nice touch to send a thank-you note right after the books are placed. Also send thank-you notes to the coordinators of any book festivals or bazaars you attend. And don't forget these helpful people during the holidays. Send a greeting card--and tuck in your business card.

These professional touches will keep your name fresh in the minds your the public and help build a larger clientele--your fan base. The cost for these is slight, and if you're persistent with these easily done "extras," your returns will be considerably higher.

About The Author

Karyn Follis Cheatham has published articles, poetry and several books--nonfiction and fiction. She also designs and manages web sites. Information about the literary services she offers can be found at <a href="http://www.kaios.com/litserv.htm" target="_new">www.kaios.com/litserv.htm</a>. Be sure to visit her web site <a href="http://www.kaios.com" target="_new">www.kaios.com</a> and sign up for the free writing tips newsletter. Contact at <a href="mailto:karyn@kaios.com">karyn@kaios.com</a>

FSBO Author believes in Bookswaps

2009-02-04T06:50:00.001-08:00

Hi Noel,

I absolutely love your website, As an MS sufferer I intend to buy your book and get "Back onto my feet." My motto this year is, "Again Alive In 2005!"

I have published a book also. It is not specifically about Multiple Sclerosis, although one of the characters in "FSBO" does have this "Dread Disease."

I never have fully embraced the MS diagnosis I received about five years ago. The symptoms have ~ none the less ~ continued to become more severe. Having had more debility effects after following a Neuro' recommendation to shoot myself with Avonex, I removed myself from their "Benevolent" program which was being paid for by our government ~ to the tune of @ $1,200 a month ~for people like me who had exhausted all of our own resources. My neuro', the subsequent, neuro' and the Dr's all think I'm crazy. All of them want me to try another injectable which my SSDI will pay for now. "No thank you, very much!"

I have had experience with attempting to bring a needed medical mechanical device to acceptance by the medical community and after 7 (seven) years (the last time) of frustration, I finally went broke. I've always believed that when I am financial able, I will do it again with the money to throw at the "Researchers" to get past the gatekeepers. That's another story and perhaps we will discuss it later, if you are interested?

Anyway, to my question. Would you be interested in being linked to a new website I am creating which will be broad~based, I hope high traffic, and will meet the needs of a variety of targeted and web surfers. MS is one of a variety of sections, as is alternative medicine.

For your information, I too am a Christian and I do intend to advocate for Jehovah God and His Son, my savior~Jesus. That is not to say that I will bar non~believers and even cult advocates from feeling welcome to visit and receive any blessings offered too. My Jesus is not threatened and He can hold His own. My own understandings and positions will be available and website visitors may consider them, if they wish to. Certainly, I intend to have links to a number of "Christian" sites of likely several denominational persuasions.One of my teachers (from former times~Richard Lang) is nearly finished with his inspired translation of the New Testament, from the original Greek. I am convinced that God is much larger and even more merciful than we can begin to comprehend. He's not a push~over and we will each be held accountable for how we have treated the trusts He has bestowed upon us.

As an author of three books, my old poetry books (1978~79 vintage) and my new novel, For Sale By Owners:FSBO will be for sale, as will be Safespace, a Sci~Fi novel written by my brother, Robert. There may be links to many authors, we will see? As a writer of "Free Post" Articles, for reprint in ezines and anywhere, when I overcome this Evil disease, I should be able to get your book and message some press. Medical conspiracy is another section of my forthcoming website.

Respectfully,

Russ Miles, author

PS: As personal resources are in short supply at the moment, I would rather offer you a book swaps than fork out $29.00. My soft~cover "FSBO" editions are $17.95 of which I make $1.54 in royalty. I have no hard~bounds on hand. Please let me know if you are interested :))

This is a very brief, incomplete preview of what I feel I am led to do. It will be much easier when I am shed of these nesciences of MS.

Russ Miles is author of the novel, For Sale By Owners:FSBO. A "Seasoned" Real Estate NAR? Broker, he is "Disabled" by Multiple Sclerosis, FOR SALE BY OWNERS:FSBO ISBN 0-595-28703-4,in trade paperback, is available by phone or Internet:1-800-Authors to order direct! Adobe e-book & hard cover editions also available at Amazon.com at Barnes and Noble and other fine booksellers. For personal referrals to his publisher or comments, reach Russ at (360)694-6756. Or by e-mail <a href="mailto:MilesRuss@Gmail.com">MilesRuss@Gmail.com</a> Please clearly state your subject so as not bo be mistaken for SPAM and for proper processing.

Book Marketing 101- Book Publicity for Authors -- Creating a Book Publicity Campaign

2009-02-03T17:50:00.001-08:00

Publicity is that elusive thing that can make or break your book - in all sorts of ways! Learning to promote you and your book is something that can take a bit of "re-training" for most new authors (and many old-timers too). Publicity is really all about selling your idea (and you), but all too often the word "selling" brings up images of polyester clad used-car salesmen, telemarketers, and strong-arm sales strategies that do nothing but alienate your intended customer.

Nothing could be further from the truth.

True "salesmanship" is all about creating a deep connection with your intended reader or reviewer by providing unique, useful and rewarding information about your book. It's all about creating a relationship that you will both benefit from and to which you can return time and again. It's about creating the awareness that you are an EXPERT about the topic of your book.

Good publicity is also regular and consistent publicity - there really is no such thing as an overnight success. Remember that you never know who is reading or listening -- it just might have been someone who could lead you to bigger and better things.

Here's some ways to create a great relationship with the editors and reporters that can provide your book the long term exposure it needs to succeed:

1) It's ALL about your intended audience - and very little about you. You might be brilliant, but the editor only cares about their audience. As a matter of fact, more often than not if you come across as thinking you are too wonderful, you'll most likely turn out to be a turn off to the editor or reporter. This is where "blanket" press releases that go to thousands of outlets fail - they typically focus on you the author, and unless you are already a household name, guess what? No one cares.

You MUST tailor your release to the intended audience - and it must be unique. Focus on the benefits you will provide their audience. Think about the publication or program you are trying to approach - what do they provide to their audience and does your book contribute to their goals? Don't under any circumstances make your pitch sound like an ad for your book - if you have a good fit, and have good information inside your book, then it will generate interest in the book. The goal here is to make the editors, reporters, and audience understand that you are an expert on your topic, and that your book contains lots of good information - by PRESENTING some of the information... not by TELLING them you are an expert.

2) Target your pitch. Be confident knowing that reporters and editors have lots of need for information. But also understand the one of the quickest ways to get rejected is to pitch the wrong person - you'll waste both of your time (and probably annoy the editor or reporter) - do you homework and find out who is the correct contact for your book. Once you've found the right person - ask them what they want. Only pitch your idea if it's a fit. Be sure to respect his or her time - everyone in the media industry works on unbelievably tight deadlines. Ask if they are under a deadline and if so, could you call back at a better time.

Be short, sweet, and to the point - which means get to the point quickly. The audience will eventually want more detail than the reporter or editor - but for your reviewer, be able to sum up your book in 30 seconds or less. "Talk less, listen more" - let the editor or reporter drive the conversation after you have them interested. They will have specific needs and questions - so stop talking and answer them explicitly.

3) Approach ALL types and sizes of publications and media. Don't be afraid to contact the "big guys" and don't neglect the smaller ones. Any one in the media has to aggressively pursue getting new and fresh content for their shows, magazines, and newspapers. This is especially true of anyone who needs to fill space on a daily basis. They are almost always on the search for people who can present information on exciting and interesting topics and trends. The biggest outlets are always on the search for an unknown that they can highlight.

The smaller journals and outlets often have a very focused and influential audience - and you never know who might be reading them or listening to their show . The smaller publications can also be "gateways" into the larger ones . Almost every single size of publication has value in your publicity campaign. Your chances of getting into smaller publications is probably higher than the larger ones, so set your time and effort accordingly.

4) Treat your contacts with unfailing respect and politeness. Yes, you are very busy - you might even be far busier than the publicist or producer that you are trying to approach. But you need them to help you out - and being constantly aware that they are very busy themselves will keep you focused on getting your materials to them in a timely manner. Never ever be late in submitting materials for a review or interview.

5) Understand that publicity isn't a "one shot success" effort. It is all about sustained and consistent awareness of your product. Marketing research indicates that a consumer will need to see your name about 7 times before they will remember it. Try to keep your interviews and reviews spaced out a little bit - frequency and consistency are critical. Don't ever let up on your publicity campaigns - even the most successful product lines in the world (think Nike and McDonalds) continue to consistently spend millions on awareness campaigns for their products. Very rarely is anyone an "overnight success" - even the best-selling authors spent years building their reputations.

Follow these 5 steps while conducting your publicity campaigns, and your level of success will be far greater than those who have either ignored or never learned these basic steps.

If you like this information (and found it helpful) please feel free to post it on your site, put it in a blog, toss it in your newsletter, or in general spread it around. Please just give us credit here at <a target="_new" href="http://www.dogearpublishing.net">www.dogearpublishing.net</a>

May you have success in your creative efforts!

Ray Robinson is a partner in Dog Ear Publishing <a target="_new" href="http://www.dogearpublishing.net">http://www.dogearpublishing.net</a> a self publishing services company specializing in delivering "high touch" services to the author community. His company provides a full range of services to authors, from editorial to page layout to marketing and fulfillment.

Successful Book Marketing The Natural Way - Part 1

2009-02-01T23:40:00.001-08:00

Is your mind muddy on book marketing? Do you wake up each day and say, "I'm not a social person and I hate to beat the drum for my book" or "I just wish someone else could market my book for me"?

If you could market your book a pleasurable way, you may not think it a chore. Natural marketing refers to the action you take to get the word out about your service and product that rings true to your heart. It feels effortless without struggle, where ideas pop out, you lose track of time engaging in them, and you can't act on them fast enough! Natural marketing feels authentic and inspired.

Unnatural marketing feels like your actions go against what feels true for you. It isn't what you like to do normally; it isn't what you can do easily. Using this tactic, you may feel bored, fearful, or ambivalent. You go through the motions, but a part of you resists. When resistances and doubts pop up you can be sure they affect every marketing decision that can lead to small gains or a large success. They also do not attract willing readers and customers.

Examples of Natural Book Marketing and How to Expand Them

1. You like to share ideas, so networking with others in a business or writers' support group suits you. You get to hear a guest speaker, and meet other authors to get useful contacts from. You gather business cards with names and numbers.

After you write your "Tell and Sell" (see below) use it orally as your elevator speech to stimulate emotions from your potential book buyer. This benefit sound bites gives your audience enough information to want to take out their credit card and buy.

To expand this marketing, create different blurbs to share vial email with your email groups. Start to collect email addresses. Whenever you meet anyone and mention your book, ask for their email. This permission marketing can take the place of sending them an email magazine called an ezine. Or, you may send them a tip they can use.

Put potential buyers into email files in your computer by group or need. Your list could include your ezine subscribers, people who are interested in your service or book such as professional speakers, coaches or business people. You can create a file of email addresses from your teleclasses or seminars if you give them.

2. You like to speak in front of an audience and offer yourself to groups for a short talk. If inexperienced or bashful, start with low-stress level talks at your local library. Contact them and ask if they offer free programs. Offer to speak on a topic related to your book. Since you are talking about what you have to benefit others, you naturally attract your targeted audience to check out your book. Here, you sell at the back of the room.

To expand this marketing, offer your talks to other local organizations in your field. You can also offer a free teleclass on a skill you can deliver that your audience needs.

3. You are not much of a speaker, but you can write. You You wrote your book, didn't you? Write your 60-second "Tell and Sell." and offer it to other eNewsletters (ezines) as an ad. Or, just exchange a blurb with a fellow ezine publisher. Make sure you include only a few sentences on who your book is for, and the top benefit it brings its readers. Will they be entertained, educated, shown how to do something? Keep it all in a sound bite, 10-20 seconds for most media or up to a minute for group meetings. "Your Tell and Sell" is your book's billboard.

Expand your "Tell and Sell" to an email post card. This mini-sales letter on your book gives enough information, benefits and feature plus some testimonials that your audience will buy through the toll-free number you put in your email signature file. Send one every month or so with a slightly different angle to the lists you have gathered.

Expand your Tell and Sell to a short and long sales letter for your book. Apply those same benefits, add testimonials of satisfied readers, and your 100% guarantee. Send it by email or include one on your author Web site.

To make sure you attract them, first make a list of 5-10 benefits of your book. Include the top benefits in every piece you email out.

The biggest mistake authors make is that they don't give their prospective buyer enough information to make a decision to buy. It's unlikely you'll sell much without a sales letter for your book's particular audience.

Remember you are already successful. You wrote a book that took your through many adventures. You accomplished a lot so far. Of course you may worry about a learning curve, but if you open your mind to experiencing a much expanded success through the Internet, you'll scratch your head and wonder, "Why didn't I do this sooner?"

As a book promotion coach, what I want for you is to not only make 1/2 your monthly income selling your books Online, but to make a positive difference to your audience. Share your gifts--that's what natural marketing is.

Success is natural, and if you use your natural resources, you too can create enough book sales to take that long, lost trip to the Caribbean, or buy a new car.

Judy Cullins, 20-year Book and Internet Marketing Coach works with small business people who want to make a difference in people's lives, build their credibility and clients, and make a consistent life-long income. Judy is author of 10 eBooks including Write your eBook or Other Short Book Fast, Ten Non-Techie Ways to Market Your Book Online, The Fast and Cheap Way to Explode Your Targeted Web Traffic, and Power Writing for Web Sites That Sell. She offers free help through her 2 monthly ezines, "The BookCoach Says...," "Business Tip of the Month," blog Q & A at <a target="_new" href="http://www.bookcoaching.com">http://www.bookcoaching.com</a> and over 185 free articles.

Email her at <a href="mailto:Judy@bookcoaching.com">Judy@bookcoaching.com</a>
Phone: 619/466-0622 -- Orders: 866/200-9743

Whats Killing Your Publishing Career?

2009-02-01T22:50:00.001-08:00

With the large increase of books being published by self-publishers, and the up-rise of print on demand, there is still a lot of death taking place in the publishing industry. Thus far, 175,000 books have been published in 2005.

Are you a part of this population? There are many aspects that make up these individuals. However, let us target just three that are undeniable to anyone reading this article.

As in anything we do, a large portion of it is about taking risks. Are you a risk taker? You've completed your manuscript or just published your novel; it is time to open the entrepreneur portion of your brain.

Risk takers do not mind the possible end result because the thought of success in pure motivation. Many writers and authors remain reclusive within the safe haven of their creativity. What makes this ideology costly? It is the slow return on their investment.

Are you wondering if you fit into this population of authors? Sure you have published your work for the whole world to read, even critique. But that is just the beginning of this venture. What makes you any different than the other hundreds of thousands of writers and authors?

Sure you can play it safe and hope your extraordinary opportunity hits you over your head. Why not become a risk taker and take it by authority?

Becoming a risk taker you must be:

--- persistent

--- creative

--- passionate

Another obvious bludgeon death is the lack of knowledge.

Yes it is lovely to remain in your creative world and just produce book after book. Can you imagine leaving all the other hoopla for others to sort out?

No one whose a true business person would dare allow themselves to walk blind in their business. Prime examples are Oprah, Donald Trump and Bill Gates. However, many writers and authors are just that, blind.

In order to be successful, you need to be savvy on all levels in the literary industry. If you are not, just like buying a car, you are going to get taken every time. Do your homework, rather than relying on third party hearsay. Why would you find knowing unimportant? For example, POD (print on demand) writers. Many have shouted foul play. The pitch is knowing the short and long term of POD. Before signing any contract, may it be for a car, house, student loan, or what have you, the rule of thumb is to know what it says. If you do not know, you will swing at a curve ball because the only pitch you anticipated was the fastball.

To become knowledgeable:

--- ask questions

--- take the time to research

--- make sure you understand

Lastly, the beast of all beasts, is marketing. It is amazing how many authors who are not marketing exhaustively.

This reverts back to the second point of lack of knowledge. Too many authors belief that a publisher will sign them and they will promote and market their book. Happy to inform you, that is not always the case.

This is your business and these publishers have invested enough in you, such as, advance, printing, and a brief promotion run. After this, it is the author's job to build a website, create news releases, get interviews and so on.

There are many authors and writers out there with published works who are at a lost. Many assume self-published authors must deal with marketing and promoting. If no one has informed you, allow me: that is not true. All published authors, in any realm must market themselves.

How else will your book or novel sell without getting out to the masses? Your readers?

To market, you must:

--- think-outside-the-box

--- market everyday on some level

--- address all angles of your novel or book

--- have a user friendly website

Take a look at where you are and where you desire to be in this literary world. Determine if you are killing your publishing career.

This is going to be a challenge, but you have to have enough energy, passion, and juice to make it past the trying moments.

As a writer or author, make sure you are multi-dimensional. You are becoming an entrepreneur, so know where your hats are and when to wear them.

C.F. Jackson is the author of the ebook The Self-Publisher's Little Black Book: The Resource Book to Self-Publishing for Writers, Authors and Poets: <a target="_new" href="http://www.thepublisherslittleblackbook.com">http://www.thepublisherslittleblackbook.com</a> This author has been Nominated Atlanta Daily World Reader's Choice for Author of the Year ? 2005 for the suspense fiction novel, Won't Be Denied. Visit <a target="_new" href="http://www.cfjackson.us">http://www.cfjackson.us</a> to learn more about this author and or contact.

8 Easy Online Ways to Market Your Book For Free

2009-02-01T22:30:00.001-08:00

Marketing your book whether you went the POD, e-book, or traditional route can be a daunting process. Figuring out what works and what doesn't can take time, energy, and if you're not careful a lot of money. When I first self-published my science fiction novel GETTING OUT ALIVE, I had already done quite a bit of research into ways to market my novel that didn't eat into my pocket book.

Here are the top 8 ways I've marketed my book and seen results:

*Create a presence on the web. There are many ways to do this, but having your own website to promote your writing is the best way. There are lots of places that have free webpages, but Bravenet.com has everything you could ever want (webjournals, tell-a-friend service, guestbook, and mailing lists to name a few) and this includes free hosting.

*Sign other author's guestbooks. The author is not the only one who reads the entries, and make sure you add your website address even if they don't give you a spot to put it. Put it beneath your name when you sign your entry.

*Be a regular on message boards, answer newbie's questions, and don't forget to add your signature with your website address. The important thing to remember here is to pop in on a regular basis, otherwise it looks like the only reason you're there is advertise, and participants won't take you seriously.

*Join writers groups online and post, post, post! That's not to say you should inundate any group with advertising e-mails about your book, but rather to participate in the discussions. If you have a signature line at the end of your e-mails this will do your advertising for you.

*Speaking of signature lines, create one and add it to all of your e-mails. This is one of my favorite freebies. People do read signature lines and I have actually ordered books because I found them via the signature line.

*Give away free PDF electronic versions of your book (not too many now, just 2 or 3) in return for reviews. This has worked very well for me, and I've gotten some good reviews from doing this. Readers like free and are usually more than willing to write a review in return.

*Trade electronic versions of your book with other published authors and do a review for each other.

*Once you have reviews post them on your website and anywhere else you can. There are many places to post reviews for free, just search on google for book reviews. See if your reviewers will post their reviews for you at these websites.

Regina Paul is the author of the science fiction novel GETTING OUT ALIVE, and editor of the free bi-monthly writer's e-zine Regina's Universe. You can read the first chapter of her novel, sign up for her e-zine and find many other writer's freebies at: <a target="_new" href="http://www.reginapaul.bravehost.com">http://www.reginapaul.bravehost.com</a>

Ten Ways to Make Your Book Outsell Another

2009-02-01T07:00:00.001-08:00

Wouldn't you rather write a book that sells well than be stuck with unsold inventory? When you plan ahead with the 10 tips below, you will sell thousands rather than hundreds of your unique and important information or inspirational products.

1. Write non-fiction first. These books are 90% of total book sales. After non-fiction success, you can use your profits to partially finance a fiction project.

2. Write short books to start. Short books in any format, like eBooks, booklets, guides or special reports are faster, easier, and cheaper to write than full-length books of 200-300 pages. They can be as short as five pages (special reports), to eBooks that can be 5-100 pages (even longer).

3. Market to a book-buying audience. Women buy far more books than men, about 75%. If your message benefits women, you'll do well in sales. If your book solves a problem it will sell more. It's best to see the need and fill it rather than have an idea-then look for an audience.

4. Choose your cover and title with care. Image is almost everything. You have four seconds to impress your potential buyer. Be clear, use metaphor and make sure your title elicits a picture or an emotion. Keep your title short, preferably 5-7 words. What solutions and results does your book promise? See more free articles including "Titles Sell Books" on <A href="http://www.bookcoaching.com">www.bookcoaching.com</A>.

5. Expand your book into a series. Think of the huge success of the Chicken Soup Series. They have one cover for all the titles. The latest count is 68 million. Think of spin-off products that relate to your book. Some people prefer to learn by listening to a cassette. You may also want to serialize your eBook, sending one part or chapter a week through an autoresponder.

These formats actually help you sell more books. Other spin-offs include coaching, consulting, speaking, seminars, columns, or videos.

6. Impress your potential buyer within eight seconds with your back cover copy. The biggest mistake authors make is putting their title on the back cover. Since it's already on the front cover, you need to instead, put your sparkling headline at the top. For example, "Imagine 1000's Buying Your Book Next Month!" It must hook your readers, stir up their emotions, and hit their desire.

In 75 words or less, include the benefits your book offers. How to get more money, heart-centered relationships, more fame, and more health. Less stress and time spend in a project. Include from 3-5 bullets of benefits, what specifics your book promises its readers.

Finally, testimonials are the number one way to turn your potential buyer into a "take-out-their-credit-card-buyer." For information on how to get testimonials ask a book coach.

7. Create your written marketing plan before you finish chapter one. This plan covers your first year's launch period and lifetime plan. You'll want to market at least two years. Inexperienced authors wait until publication and lose a great deal of sales.

Your plan could include how many books you want to sell, your 30 second tell and sell, book reviews, news releases, the Online articles to market your book, the book signings, talks, electronic newsletters, and a book Web site. Without a written plan, an author creates vague results.

8. Put as much time into marketing as you did the writing of your book. Your goal is to have people read and learn from your unique message. Why plant a garden if you don't harvest it? John Kremer, book marketing guru, and author of 1001 Ways to Market Your Book, says to do five things each day. Five calls, five press releases, five online contacts or a combination of tasks. The book coach says spend 6-9 hours a week on online promotion.

9. Include online marketing to sell more books. While you can sell your books on other sites, such as Amazon.com, you will eventually want your own. You will make much less with Amazon and you have to pay for shipping too. An author without a Web site is like a person without a name. As an entrepreneur, your site needs to attract visitors and sell your products and service. Here you include testimonials, benefit driven headlines, and your sales letter to get your visitor to become a customer.

10. Start promoting your book several ways. If press releases, book signings, and back of the room sales dim, include online promotion such as writing and submitting how-to articles to top ezines and web sites. When you use his virtual marketing machine-the Internet- you will keep your book dream alive--getting it into the hands of thousands of readers rather than a few.

Start marketing your book right now, even if you don't have a Web site. Research by reading articles, contacting professional book and web coaches, or take a teleclass to find out how to learn non-techie ways to start your lifetime book promotion journey. Master book marketing like you would eat an elephant--one bite at a time! Watch your sales grow!

Increase Book Sales: When a Sale Is No Longer Just a Sale

2009-01-31T16:20:00.001-08:00

Do you have books sitting in your garage that you haven't sold yet and looking for ways to move them? Then you will want to know about these five outrageous ideas that aren't difficult and can be just plain out fun.

Dede Hall, author of The Starving Student's Cookbook had very poor sales for her books. Then one day an outrageously light bulb moment appeared. She added an inexpensive skillet with the book and shrink-wrapped them. Then she took 150 of them to two stores that she thought wouldn't sell them. Yes, to her surprise, all 150 sold in two days. Dede stumbled on an outrageous idea and it worked out big time. She sold over 100,000 copies in a few months. Where did she sell them? Thought you would never ask. Price Clubs and Kmarts.

Do you have a book that could be packaged with something else and create outrageous sales for yourself? It's Christmas time and no it isn't too late. But before you dart off to come up with an outrageous idea for your book, continue reading so that you can get all the facts.

Another cookbook was repackaged with a scarlet ribbon and some imported cinnamon sticks and then sold at department stores in the housewares and gift sections. The book couldn't sell at $5.95 but flew off the shelves at $10 and went into second printing in 30 days.

Would your book sell well in a three-ring shrink-wrapped binder? Why not create and audio or CD version of the material. Just read directly from the material. You do not have to be fancy. Add "read by the author" language to the outside in big letters. Or maybe "F*R*E*E Bonus, Limited Time Offer, Free Audio read by the author" in big letters.

Another key is to look for an item that makes the package larger than the book. This requires a larger space and then bigger visibility.

What about a book on money? Add a mug labeled, "Millionaire" and watch it fly off the shelf. Do not forget the second part of the formula -- the place you are going to sell it. When you add the mug, it is now considered a gift item. This opens the doors to more stores and places.

Try all the independent gift shops, especially at the airport. They are always looking for these type of unique combinations.

Have an exercise book? Add a "walking meter" with it. The one that measures how many miles you are walking. Have no clue what they call those things but I have bought three over the past few years. Again, now it is a gift item. How about contacting a sports equipment vendor and selling them copies of your book that would be a freebie for a limited period with a purchase.

Get the store to add a sign, "limited quantity and watch them go even faster. What is great about this angle is that gift stores, department stores and similar stores are much more open to add things to their shelf. They will work with you much better than a bookstore.

Now that you brain is going a mile a minute with ideas, best wishes for selling many more books!

Catherine Franz, a Certified Professional Marketing & Writing Coach, specializes in product development, Internet writing and marketing, nonfiction, training. Newsletters and articles available at: <A target="_new" href="http://www.abundancecenter.com">http://www.abundancecenter.com</A> blog: <A target="_new" href="http://abundance.blogs.com">http://abundance.blogs.com</A>

Self Publishing Success Starts With Marketing

2009-01-30T19:20:00.001-08:00

Self-publishing is not for the faint of heart. The publication process is lengthy, involves a considerable number of detailed, administrative tasks and can be expensive. This is the easy part; the real challenge involves "S & M" ? sales and marketing.

For an author to become a successful self-publisher, he or she must make a paradigm shift in consciousness from author to entrepreneur, and view their book in the same way that Madison Avenue gurus view the newest shampoo. An author has to be able to do a dispassionate analysis of the market the book was meant to reach. Is its greatest appeal to young people? Senior citizens? Men? Women? Members of a minority group? The definition of a market ? or markets ? will help to determine and focus the ensuing marketing campaign.

Next, the author must develop a marketing plan. How can I reach my market most effectively? Freelance authors are already aware of the plethora of niche publications on the market. Now, instead of contacting these publications for submission guidelines, the self-publisher needs to contact the advertising department for rate and data information. Information such as 1) per-issue circulation, 2) average response rates for classified and / or display advertisements, 3) advertising rates and specs for display advertising will allow a self-publisher to determine the cost per contact. If a book involves specialized information, the self-publisher can afford to advertise in low-circulation, niche periodicals, as the audience of those periodicals may well be the exact type of individual most likely to benefit from the book.

Books which were written to appeal to a wide, general audience will have to be marketed with a larger media blanket. Diet, self-help and money management books do better with radio or television publicity. These media have higher costs, but over the long run, the per-contact cost is smaller, due to the greater number of people reached.

The question of cost brings us to the next challenge: a marketing and advertising budget. How much are you willing to spend, and for how many years? Launching any new business venture generally requires five years to begin turning a profit, and the first two years concentrate on developing an identity and "brand awareness." In other words, it may take an author two years for anyone to become aware of his / her existence, let alone want to purchase their book! Too many self-publishers give up on marketing after the first year, and wind up selling their book at garage sales.

Finally, marketing efforts need to begin before the book is published. If an author builds interest and excitement while their book is still in the "proofing" stage, the outcome could easily be immediate demand upon release of the book. One of my clients did this, and sold 100 copies of his book before he received his first shipment.

Along with publications written to help authors improve their writing skills, the self-publisher should reference books or audiotapes relevant to promoting and marketing small or home-based businesses, such as Jay Conrad Levinson's Guerilla Marketing. Promoting your work doesn't have to be torture or outrageously expensive. Well-planned, consistently executed promotion will get your book on bookshelves, as long as you are willing to invest patience and persistence in your marketing efforts.

About The Author

Jean Fritz is the owner and chief editor for JMT Publications (<a href="http://jmtpubs.tripod.com" target="_new">http://jmtpubs.tripod.com</a>), a company which specializes in helping self-publishing authors get into print.

This article is not copyrighted

<a href="mailto:jeantype@excite.com">jeantype@excite.com</a>

What Service Do You Need to Make your Book Sell?

2009-01-30T05:40:00.001-08:00

Whether you are just starting or almost finished with your print or eBook, you wonder, "What step to take next?" Who can help me find the right publisher? Who can partner with me to make my book a solid seller? Check out your choices to be sure you get what you need.

Many writers think that all they need is a good editor and their book will be ready for publishing and promoting.

Maybe you think you don't have enough time to write it yourself? A ghostwriter can take over and finish the research and get it out.

Think about another choice: Bookcoaching. Before you write too many scattered chapters consult with a coach who knows your book category, who your market is, and where to find them.

Your book coach also knows what makes up a saleable title and can help guide you to write a great seller by knowing your thesis, your audience, your "tell and sell," and the correct introduction. When you incorporate these essential "hot-selling" points before you write many chapters, you will then write a compelling, organized, easy-to read page turner.

Don't hire a ghostwriter before you know exactly what you need to write, publish, and promote a great-selling book.

If your book is almost finished, you must hook your potential readers with the solutions you know will serve them. Knowing your audience before you write the book helps you write focused, organized, and compelling copy. Do you know the rules for writing a saleable book? Too many "I's" and linking verbs like "is" and was" slow readers down and make them bored. They want vital verbs and specific nouns. If they don't receive multiple benefits, they will put your potential great book down and won't recommend it to friends or associates.

You already know that word-of-mouth works, yet takes a year or more to really get up steam. Many authors quit too soon because they don't know how or don't want to promote their book. An experienced book coach can give you the real picture before you put time and money into your book. She can also make you aware of easy marketing and promotion that takes only a few hours a week at home or in the office. And, you can delegate it all to an assistant.

Maybe, you just want to get your book done. An editor can fix your grammar and even your disorganization, but can an editor help you get your book published and promoted, and know which way is the best for you?

Think about what you want--a saleable book whose audience will flock to it because it totally helps answer their questions or solves their challenge. And, entertains too. Editors are not trained to think about the benefits your book will give your audience. They don't know how to market as you write. Check with your book coach who will point out your brilliance and show you your benefits and features in ongoing phone and email sessions.

Remember that only benefits sell. This is the end result your reader gets after reading your book. Results sell. Features such as what's inside the book-steps, charts, tips, interview, pictures, or quote explain, but do not sell.

When you don't know why your audience should buy your book and you can't tell them in a few sentences either in print or in person, they will back away and keep their wallet or credit card inside their pockets or purse.

Hire your editor after you contact a book coach. When your chapters do not have a consistent format with questions posed as headings and answers in the copy below, a line editor cannot make your work sell just by changing a few sentences. Even a developmental editor needs format to help make your book the best it can be. Even a ghostwriter will need this format.

If authors want their book to succeed, they need to choose the right partner.

Navigating the Amazon Sales Ranking

2009-01-30T02:01:00.000-08:00

First, the disclaimers: Since the algorithm Amazon uses to generate its sales ranking is proprietary, the details contained herein are extrapolated from research and field tests. The resulting consensus finds Amazon's system to provide marginal sales data at best.

To whit, read Amazon's own definition of its system, slightly paraphrased from their FAQ: "The Sales Ranking system exhibits how books are selling. The lower the number, the higher the sales. The calculation is based on sales and is updated each hour to reflect recent and historical sales of every item sold. We hope you find the Amazon.com Sales Rank interesting!" This last sentence seems to indicate Amazon's own perspective on the importance with which the sales rankings should be viewed.

You're not supposed to find the sales rankings informative or helpful. You're supposed to find them interesting.

In actuality, the process is somewhat more convoluted than they let on. Only the top 10,000 books are updated every hour and the ranking does not depend upon the actual number of books sold, but rather, on a comparison against the sales figures of the other 9,999 books within that same hour. Simultaneously, a trending calculation is applied to arrive at a computerized sales trajectory. So, hypothetically, a book that held a ranking of 2,000 at 2pm and 3,000 at 3pm, might hold a 4,000 ranking at 4pm, even if it actually sold MORE books between 3-4 than it did between 2-3.

Books with rankings between 10,000 and 100,000 are recalculated once a day, rather than once an hour. Current projections, as well as historic sales information play a key role in these calculations. In fact, the predictive nature of the Amazon ranking system is what makes it possible for a newly-released book to outrank an older established title, even though the actual sales figures for the latter far exceed the former.

Books with rankings over 100,000 are also recalculated every day and applied with historic sales information and projections, although in the case of these books, history takes a back seat. Sales projections and trending take an active role here, which is why a book's ranking can leap from 900,000 to 200,000 in the span of 24 hours or less. Does this mean the book has sold 700,000 copies in 24 hours? Absolutely not! What it does mean is that recent activity (i.e. purchases) for that book is trending higher than those 700,000 books it just surpassed. But, don't get excited just yet; since the activity of those 700,000 other books range from slow to stagnant, one or two orders are sufficient to catapult a ranking.

If a book's ranking breaks into the top 100,000, the sales history calculation starts to rear its head, which is why a "phenomenon" book has a hard time maintaining a high, legitimate ranking. A phenomenon is defined by a book that leaps from the high hundred-thousands into the lower thousands (or better) in the span of 24 hours or less, usually due to some concentrated marketing initiatives. Since Amazon's sales history for that title doesn't support the leap, the spike occurs and then quickly drops again.

HOW DOES ALL THIS TRANSLATE TO ACTUAL SALES FIGURES?

Since the data is recalculated every hour and/or every day (depending upon a book's current ranking), it's impossible to get cumulative sales figures, although those figures are applied to the algorithm during the calculation. No, to get a very rough idea of the actual number of books being sold, the sales ranking has to be dissected dynamically, with the same immediacy as the ranking being calculated, (hourly for top 10,000 books or daily for top 100,000 books). Chart the ranking of a top 10,000 book every hour for 24 hours and divide by 24 to arrive at its average daily ranking. In the case of a top 100,000 book, take its ranking every day for 7 days and divide by 7 to arrive at its average weekly ranking.

Bear in mind that this next piece of information is extremely arbitrary, based upon sales ranking/sales figure comparisons and data received from third party sources. In other words, it's probably completely wrong. But rather than disclaiming this chart until the cows come home, I'll just say this: It is difficult to make sense of something that doesn't make sense. But it sure is interesting, and now, perhaps, even slightly helpful.

If the book's average ranking is: 2,000,000-plus, then perhaps a single inventory/consignment copy has been ordered.

1,000,000-plus, the current trends indicate total sales will most likely be under 40.

100,00-plus, then current trends indicate total sales will most likely be under 200.

10,000-plus, you can estimate between 1 ? 10 copies are being sold per week.

1,000-plus, you can estimate between 10 ? 100 copies are being sold per week.

100-plus, you can estimate between 100 ? 200 copies are being sold per week.

10-plus, you can estimate between 200 ? 1000 copies are being sold per week.

In the top 10, you can estimate over 1,000 copies are per week

Brent Sampson is the President & CEO of Outskirts Press Publishing at <a target="_new" href="http://www.outskirtspress.com">OutskirtsPress.com</a> and author of Publishing Gems: Insider Information for the Self-Publishing Writer. Information at <a target="_new" href="http://outskirtspress.com/publishinggems">http://outskirtspress.com/publishinggems</a>

A First Time Authors Publicity Kit Materials

2009-01-29T07:40:00.000-08:00

If you're a new author that has been requested to send publicist materials, you may feel left in the dark on what to send. Here's a list of the usual items.

1. Author Bio
This is no place for modesty. You're competing with many other authors out there and need to show how your hot and worth it. Remember to include your accomplishments and give a little background information. Often readers want to know about the author's interests..

2. A photo
This is optional, but if you want to get your face out there, this could help. Keep in mind that not every editor will use your photo.

3. Interviews
Any newspaper/magazine clippings may be include if it's related to you and your writing, awards an accomplishments. Clippings about your personal life may bore the editor requesting your materials.

4. Reviews
If you have any reviews for your latest release, have them printed on clear 8.5 X 11 paper and include them in your kit.

5. Promotional Items
It may also be requested that you send any promotional items. Examples would be: Posters, pens with your web address, buttons, bookmarks,etc...

As time goes on, you'll expand your PR kit. A great idea is to have a press kit right on your website to save editors time and money. You may want to have all your current materials in one easy to download PDF file. Each time you have something new to add update the file.

About the Author: Laura Hickey is an up and coming author. Her works include Mysterious Chills and Thrills for Kids and a co-writer position for the TV pilot, Officially Lush. You can read more free articles by Ms. Hickey on her homepage:

<a target="_new" href="http://www.laurahickey.com">http://www.laurahickey.com</a>

How to Get Your Book Reviewed

2009-01-29T07:00:00.000-08:00

Imagine your book at the top of the Best Sellers List of the New York Times. Most authors do. The question is, "How do I get it there and sell millions of copies?"

When planing your book, there is one critical thing that most authors forget - marketing. In the case of book reviewers this means pre-marketing.

Most reviewers require a copy of your book at least three months before publication. This is because most book reviewers need time to read it and review it plus publish all the reviews on books that they have reviewed for those who came before you. Also many publications come out on a weekly or monthly basis instead of daily. This means that book reviewers have a huge backlog.

So the best way to get a book reviewers to review your book, is to get them a quality copy of your manuscript or a galley, as soon as possible.

What if your book has already been published?

Is it too late to get a book reviewer to review your book? In some cases yes and in some no. There is an easy way to get your book reviewed without calling it a review.

Send out a press release.

Create a press release about your book and submit it to your local newspapers, magazines and radio stations. Make it interesting. Don't just say Mary Joe Piper has just published her newest book Babes on Parade. Think about your story and what it can teach people. Does it have a theme about love or friendship or settling disputes?

Use the issue in your press release. Teach people how to solve their problems and then have the person interviewing you mention your credits, as a published author. At that point your book will be mentioned, you will have done them a service, and you will have saved thousands of dollars on marketing and query letters to editors.

Here are just a few sites that you can go to to submit your pre - publication book:

Book Reviewers:

Terrie Bittner Bellaonline.com: Children's Books childrenbooks@bellaonline.com http://www.bellaonline.com/entertainment/children.html Categories: Children, Children's Religion, Young Adult - Children Query first.

Sandy Cummins Writers Exchange Book Reviews PO Box 372 Atherton, QLD 4883 writers@writers-exchange.com http://www.ozemail.com.au/~pjcsjc/book-review.htm Categories: Computer/Internet/Technology, Children, Christian, Fiction, How-To, Non-Fiction, Religion, Romance, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, eBooks, Writing, promotion & publishing

Anne Douglas http://www.bookideas.com emailanned@yahoo.com http://www.bookideas.com Categories: Art, Books From Small Presses, Children, Cookbook, Fiction, Literature, Mystery, Pop Culture, Women, Young Adult - Children, Biography, Parenting. Particularly interested in American art and children's books.

Apryl Duncan FictionAddiction.NET Box 876 Chattanooga, TN 37343 ReviewRequest@FictionAddiction.NET http://www.FictionAddiction.NET Categories: Books From Small Presses, Children, Fiction, Literature, Mystery, Romance, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Young Adult - Children, Thriller/Suspense, Writing, promotion & publishing, Adventure, Horror

Melanie C. Duncan Bookdragaon Review (ISSN 1527-0157) 444 Forest Hill Road, #813 Macon, GA 31210 MCDuncan@bookdragonreview.com http://www.bookdragonreview.com Categories: Fiction, Young Adult - Children Comments: All genres fiction only. Please query before sending an e-book. Attachments are deleted if not specifically requested. Traditional galleys may be sent without a query, however please read the FAQs at the website before sending.

Linda Eberharter Fiction Forest 7042 Cohasset Ct. Indianapolis, IN 46226 Phone: 317-549-3038 linda@atlanticbridge.net http://www.atlanticbridge.net Categories: Children, Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Thriller/Suspense, eBooks

Detra Fitch Huntress Book Reviews 205 Dana Drive Easley, SC 29642 huntress@huntressreviews.com http://www.huntressreviews.com Categories: Children, Fiction, General, Romance, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Young Adult - Children, Thriller/Suspense, Adventure, Horror

Denise Fleischer Gotta Write Online 515 E. Thacker Hoffman Estates, IL 60194 Phone: 847 882-8054 Netera@aol.com http://members.aol.com/gwnlitmag/ Categories: Mystery, Romance, Young Adult - Children, eBooks, Writing, promotion & publishing. Authors can also make guest appearances on the AOL chat she co-hosts on Tuesdays from 10-11 PM ET. Writers: keyword, chatrooms, Writer's Grill.

Jessica Holmes Romance At Its Best, Midnight Reviews owner@romanceatitsbest.com http://www.romanceatitsbest.com/ Categories: Books From Small Presses, Fiction, General, How-To, Literature, Mystery, Non-Fiction, Romance, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Women, Young Adult - Children, Biography, Thriller/Suspense, eBooks, Self-help, Writing, promotion & publishing, Inspirational/Motivational, History/Political, Adventure, Horror

Dave Jenkinson CM/Canadian Review Materials Faculty of Education, University of Manitoba Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Phone: 204-474-8780 e-Mail: jenkinson@ms.umanitoba.ca http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/ Categories: Audiobooks; General, Children, Young Adults

Jeanne Kelly 1928 Mid Road Colorado Springs, CO 80906 Phone: 719-291-2309 e-Mail: whitebison@mail.com Categories: Audiobooks; Children, Health, Metaphysical, Spiritual, Women, Self-help, Writing, Inspirational, Motivational

Jeanette Lambert Tennessee Tribune 6940 Sunderland Circle Nashville, TN 37221-4621 Phone: 615-321-3268 jbl96@aol.com Categories: Children, Cookbook, Fiction, General, How-To, Library, Lifestyle, Mystery, Non-Fiction, Reference, Sociology, Travel/Hospitality, Women, Young Adult - Children, Biography, Thriller/Suspense, African-American Fiction and Nonfiction , Self-help, Writing, promotion & publishing, Education

Jennifer L. B. Leese AStoryWeaver's Book Reviews 311 Frederick Street Hagerstown, MD 21740 AStoryWeaver@aol.com http://www.geocities.com/ladyjiraff/aswbr.html Categories: Children, Young Adult - Children. Ebooks should be sent to home address on disc or in printed format. Please supply all information needed to properly review your book and where to send the review when done. For faster responses, the review can be sent to you via email.

Cathi Dunn MacRae, Editor VOYA Scarecrow Press 4720 Boston Way Lanham, MD 20706 voya@voya.com http://www.voya.com Categories: Young Adult & Children

Sandra J. Morgan Cloudy Mountain Books/The Fiction Forest 2 Bow Mills Road Center Barnstead, NH 03225 Phone: 603 776 0123 sandi@fictionforest.com http://www.fictionforest.com Categories: Audiobooks, Australian Books, Books From Small Presses, Children, Christian, Cookbook, Features, Fiction, Food, General, Health, How-To, Humanities, Library, Lifestyle, Literature, Mystery, Non-Fiction, Pop Culture, Reference, Religion, Romance, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Serials, Travel/Hospitality, Video, Women, Psychology/Mental Health, Biography, Parenting, Thriller/Suspense, eBooks, Theater, Politics, Film History, African-American Fiction and Nonfiction , Financial

Christian Perring, Ph.D. Metapsychology Online Review c/o Philosophy Dept Dowling College Oakdale , NY 11769 Phone: 631-244-3349 metapsychology@mentalhelp.net http://mentalhelp.net/books/ Categories: Art, Audiobooks, Books From Small Presses, Fiction, Gay/Lesbian Fiction, Gay/Lesbian Non-Fiction, General, Health, Humanities, Literature, Metaphysical, Mystery, Pop Culture, Sociology, Women, Young Adult - Children, Psychology/Mental Health, Biography, Parenting, Comics, Science

Puala Rohrlick KLIATT Young Adult Paperback Book Guide 33 Bay State Rd., Welesley, MA 02481 Phone: 781-237-7577 kliatt@aol.com http://www.hometown.aol.com/kliatt Categories: Young Adult - Children

Geoff Rotunno the boox review PO Box 211 Santa Ynez, CA 93460 geoff@thebooxreview.com http://www.thebooxreview.com Categories: Art, Audiobooks, Australian Books, Computer/Internet/Technology, Junior College Books, Books From Small Presses, Children, Children's Religion, Christian, Cookbook, Features, Fiction, Gay/Lesbian Fiction, Gay/Lesbian Non-Fiction, Food, General, Health, How-To, Humanities, Library, Lifestyle, Literature, Marketing, Metaphysical, Mystery, Non-Fiction, Poetry, Pop Culture, Reference, Religion, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Serials, Sociology, Spiritual, Travel/Hospitality, Video, Women, Young Adult/Children's, Psychology/Mental Health, Biography, Parenting, Thriller/Suspense, Theater, Politics, Film History, African-American Fiction and Nonfiction , Financial, Self-help, Writing, promotion & publishing, Inspirational/Motivational, Business, Comics, Gardening, Science, Education, History/Political Comments: Seeking review copies of all genres except romance.

Beverly J. Rowe myshelf.com 102 Copper Lane Kenai, AK 99611 Phone: (907) 283-2840 bevbooks@aol.com Categories: Children, Cookbook, Fiction, Food, Literature, Mystery, Non-Fiction, Young Adult - Children, Biography, Thriller/Suspense, Writing, promotion & publishing, Education, History/Political. Prefers hard copies.

J.B. Scott Sydney, NSW 2148 ctf_editor@iprimus.com.au http://www.geocities.com/ebook_review Categories: Australian Books, Computer/Internet/Technology, Books From Small Presses, Children, Fiction, Mystery, Non-Fiction, Romance, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Thriller/Suspense, eBooks E-mail all review requests to ctf_editor@iprimus.com.au with "REVIEW REQUEST" in the subject header.

Sandra Simmons-Maike Freelance Rt. 2 Box 152 Alma, KS 66401 Phone: 785-765-3861 sandcogroup@aol.com Categories: Audiobooks, Books From Small Presses, Children, Cookbook, Fiction, Food, General, Library, Lifestyle, Marketing, Mystery, Romance, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Serials, Young Adult - Children, Thriller/Suspense, eBooks, Self-help. Include time deadline.

Roger Sutton, Editor Horn Book Magazine 56 Roland Street, Suite 200 Boston, MA 02129 Phone: 617-628-0225 Categories: Children, Young Adult - Children

Niki Taylor Freelance nat0607@hotmail.com http://www.suite101.com/welcome.cfm/book_reviews Categories: Books From Small Presses, Children, Christian, Gay/Lesbian Non-Fiction, Health, Non-Fiction, Pop Culture, Sociology, Spiritual, Travel/Hospitality, Women, Young Adult - Children, Psychology/Mental Health, Biography, eBooks, Theater, Film History, Self-help, Writing, promotion & publishing, Inspirational/Motivational, History/Political

Anna Serra i Vidal Aleda?os. Bolet?n electronico y cr?tico de literatura Eiximenis, 6 Sant Pere de Ribes, Barcelona 08810 Phone: + 34 93 896 25 04 aserra@ctv.es Categories: Children, Cookbook, Fiction, Literature, Mystery, Women, Young Adult - Children, Thriller/Suspense, eBooks, Writing, promotion & publishing, Education

Christopher Warner EFP - Spratt Publishing 4924 Balboa Blvd Suite 304 Los Angeles, CA 91316 Phone: 818-881-7053 efp@dslextreme.com Categories: Art, Audiobooks, Australian Books, Computer/Internet/Technology, Junior College Books, Books From Small Presses, Children's Book, Cookbook, Features, Fiction, Gay/Lesbian Fiction, Gay/Lesbian Non-Fiction, Food, General, Health, How-To, Humanities, Library, Lifestyle, Literature, Marketing, Metaphysical, Mystery, Non-Fiction, Poetry, Pop Culture, Reference, Religion, Romance, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Serials, Sociology, Spiritual, Travel/Hospitality, Video, Women, Young Adult/Children's, Psychology/Mental Health, Biography, Parenting, Thriller/Suspense, eBooks, Theater, Politics, Film History, African-American Fiction and Nonfiction , Financial, Self-help, Writing, promotion & publishing, Inspirational/Motivational, Business, Comics, Gardening, Science, Education, Scholarly, History/Political, Adventure, Nature, Horror, Photography

Brenda Weeaks MyShelf.Com reviews@myshelf.com http://www.myshelf.com Categories: Audiobooks, Books From Small Presses, Children, Christian, Cookbook, Fiction, Food, General, Health, How-To, Literature, Mystery, Non-Fiction, Reference, Romance, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Serials, Women, Young Adult - Children, Thriller/Suspense, Self-help, Writing, promotion & publishing, Inspirational/Motivational, Gardening

Stephanie Zvirin Booklist/American Library Association 50 E. Huron Chicago, IL 60611 http://www.ala.org/booklist/ Categories: Young Adult

Once a few book reviewers write about your book, other book reviewers will follow. Be prepared for these subsequent book reviewers. Have copies of your book ready to send out with your author packet.

Caterina Christakos is a children's book author. To learn how to write a children's book in 30 days or less go to: <a target="_new" href="http://www.howtowriteachildrensbook.com">http://www.howtowriteachildrensbook.com</a>

Why Testimonials are Number One in Selling your Book or Service

2009-01-28T04:10:00.001-08:00

Even if your book or service is excellent, they won't sell well unless you give your potential customers a reason to buy. Testimonials work harder than other promotional words, so be sure to start early collecting them.

Back Cover Testimonials

Here, you will need three testimonials-- one from a celebrity or leader in your field, and the others the man or woman on the street--thrilled readers. These testimonials are the most important thing to include on your back cover--better than benefits, better than your bio, because your prospective buyers trust your book more when others recommend it.

Collect many more testimonials each time you email or meet someone interested in your topic. Put these in your front pages of your book.

Web and email Sales Letters Testimonials

Once you collect 5 - 10 testimonials loaded with specific benefits, keep them in your Word folder "Book Testimonials" and "Web Testimonials." Organizing your files and folders make it so much faster to retrieve these gems that help your sales grow.

Sprinkle your testimonials throughout your web site and email sales letter. If you don't have a Web site, check out with a good book and marketing coach how to sell via email. Ecommerce succeeds without investing a lot of money--a number one way to market Online.

Without a short or long sales letter, you have little chance of consistent monthly sales.

You Don't Have to Finish your Book to Get Testimonials

Think about the people you ask. Are they busy with their business and personal life? Know that they probably won't want to read the whole book. You need to make it easy for them to "buy."

In your first email or letter, include your chapter titles, your "tell and sell," a page or two from your best chapter. Say you know how busy they are and include a list of benefit words and phrase they can choose from to make it easier. Dan Poynter, self publishing guru, gave this testimonial for "How to Write your Print and eBook at the Same Time."

"This is not a book on how to write. It is a book on how to get it written. It is full of the shortcuts, experiences and tips only an insider could know. Whether you are working on an eBook or a pBook, you will find Judy Cullins' wisdom invaluable." Dan Poynter, author of The Self Publishing Manual and Writing Non-Fiction If you are writing fiction, include a few of your best scenes from a chapter or two

Tip: Offer to email more of the book if your testimonial giver wants.

Write a List of 5-10 Benefits and 5-10 Features.

Know that benefits sell, features describe.

Boost your Book or Product Sales Beyond you Wildest Dreams With Simple Testimonial Steps in the eBook "How to Get Testimonials from the Rich and Famous."

This headline gives the benefit of boosting sales first, and then explains how to. Without letting your audience know the benefits, most will drop interest.

Notes: Testimonials help ease doubts of first-time buyers, and they're especially useful for credibly conveying subjective strengths that distinguish your company from competitors. Imagine that you're sticklers for quality, for instance, and have a quote from someone describing the devastating flaws they received before switching to you.

You can deliberately collect testimonials with such an impact in mind. Here's how.

First, brainstorm a list of characteristics that separate you from competitors. Also list catastrophes that could occur when someone bought from vendors who fall short in respects where you excel.

Second, institute a routine of surveying new customers after you complete their first project. Besides making sure they were delighted with what you did, ask if they previously bought this sort of thing from someone else. If so, why did they switch?

Stay on the lookout for disaster stories, the more dramatic the better. There's no need to name the competitor involved. Get your customer's permission to encapsulate their tale of woe and rescue in a signed testimonial.

Gradually collect one blurb per distinguishing quality on your list and sprinkle them where shoppers will see them.

Top Ten Ways of Why and How to Write your Books Sales Letter - Part 1

2009-01-27T17:40:00.001-08:00

Authors/publishers are great at getting their books written. But after the initial one-year honeymoon, sales slow down. To counter this make sure your print or ebook will keep on selling from the first day, the first year, even for life. Count on this being a two to three- year project to become well known.

Write a short sales letter for each book.

Whether you have a web site or not, you can write a first class, must-buy-now sales letter. Since you are making your book a business write a sales letter for each teleclass and service as well. I even write one for my bookcoaching services.

What Every Sales Letter Needs to Pull Orders and Profits

You can write each sales letter in less than four hours the first time. As you practice, you can an excellent one in two hours.

1. Start the Letter with a Benefit-Driven Headline.

Include similar headlines throughout your sales letter. Make them bold and in another font to stand out. Then, add the copy below that supports your claim. Here's one. What do your think? "Want a Quick and Easy way to Quadruple your Online Income in Four Months?"

If you answered, "yes" to yourself, the headline succeeds, because you will keep reading. If you said "No, I don't believe this, " but I'm curious where this is going," the headline still succeeds. You win when your headline seduces your potential customer to read on in your sales letter to discover your book's benefits and features, some fine testimonials, to finally click "buy now" that takes them to the order page.

2. Make a list of all the problems and challenges your reader has.

To know your audience's problems is half of the solution. Before you can write your book's benefits, you need to know the problems. Do they want to lose weight? Do they want a lasting relationship? Note where they are now with their particular challenge. Hook your reader to go on with engaging questions such as "Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired?" "Are you ready to give up on attracting your ideal mate?"

After you list all the concerns and problems your audience wants solved, your answer for these will formulate your list of benefits. (See #4) Follow each specific problem posed as a question with your answer. Those are your benefits. Benefits sell.

3. Address your Potential Buyer's Resistances.

Remember to tell a background story of where they are NOW (see #3.) so they will emotionally connect with your book solutions. This is part of your introduction and is the hook to keep your readers going. Let's say they want to write an eBook or print book to make themselves the "expert," make life-long passive income, or share their unique message.

Many people don't write a book because they doubt it will sell well enough for all the effort, it may not be significant enough, it will take too long, cost too much money, and they really aren't writers. One, by one, your sales letter needs to address your audiences' concerns and show these potential buyers how they can become an excellent author and make their books more saleable, while building their profits.

Author's Tip: Make a list of these resistances before you write your sales letter.

4. List the Top Five-Ten Benefits of your Product or Service in Bullet Form.

From these lists, create and keep in a computer file called, "book benefits" a list of 5-10 benefits. Include the number one benefit at the top of the list. You need to know these before you can talk about your book to others.

If you are not rock sure of who your audience is, your sales copy dribbles away and doesn't meet its target. Keep redefining your audience and know as much about them as you can.

Remember that one benefit is the top undeniable benefit-usually more money easier, more clients faster, more profits from web sales, better relationships, and optimum health.

You will place the top five or so bulleted benefits after your sales letter Introduction. The rest you can sprinkle throughout your copy.

Without a book sales letter to guide your potential buyers on your web site, you leave them bored, uninspired, without enough information to make that decision to buy. Your web site and ezine must entertain, inform, and give enough benefits to convince your readers to order your book.

For all email promotion campaigns, without a sales letter for each product, your unique, useful and inspiring information will not get read, people won't know you as the expert, and you won't make the sales you want.

For part two of this article email article-165@bookcoaching.com.

Judy Cullins, 20-year Book and Internet Marketing Coach works with small business people who want to make a difference in people's lives, build their credibility and clients, and make a consistent life-long income. Author of 10 eBooks including "Write your eBook Fast," "The Fast and Cheap Way to Explode Targeted Web Traffic," and "Create your Web Site With Marketing Pizzazz," she offers free help through her 2 monthly ezines, "The Book Coach Says..." and "Business Tip of the Month" at <a target="_new" href="http://www.bookcoaching.com/opt-in.shtml">http://www.bookcoaching.com/opt-in.shtml</a> and over 165 free articles. Email her at mailto:Judy@bookcoaching.com.

Best Selling Book Cover Design

2009-01-27T07:50:00.001-08:00

To get a book cover design may be expensive and painstaking one. Book cover and the layout of the inside pages should catch the eye of the readers in today's market. Book cover the marketing tool for any writers or publishers if you got that one right then you work is half done. Find a Designer who user the state of art software to which is preferred by most printers.

An interior of a book is also important a well placed layout of a book makes the readers easy to read and sends a message to the reader. The formatting of the interiors should be done before the cover design is completed. A well laid out book page layout is the one most reader preferred. Create a original design that gives an edge over other publishers. Pictures and photos should be given utmost importance and blends with the subject of the book. A wrong design sends wrong signals for the readers and it will remain in the shelf than in the reader's room.

Work with an experienced graphic designer who offers the services like book cover design, case wrap design, book jacket design, text layout, barcode and image scanning. You book is judged by its cover right from the distributors, dealers, book store and finally the readers. Try to get maximum potential out of your book cover and its interior pages.

There are two major parts to be looked at for a best selling book

Part one: - Design Part
That includes the book cover design, book layout and its interior pages.

Part two: - Publishing part
Editing, Copywriting, typesetting, illustration and graphics

Once all these above things are done then it is time for printing. Before doing that you have to observe few things like the spine width of the book cover it is determined by the number of pages in the book. The next process is the book type hardbound or softbound once that is decided submit your manuscript preferably in MS word format with titles sub titles and headings etc.

This article was written by Thomson Chemmanoor a freelance website designer and website promotion expert websites - <a target="_new" href="http://www.website-promoiton-expert.com">http://www.website-promotion-expert.com</a>, <a target="_new" href="http://www.digitallabz.com/book-layout.html">http://www.digitallabz.com/book-layout.html</a>, <a href="mailto:digitallabzinfo@yahoo.com">digitallabzinfo@yahoo.com</a>

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Book Titles that Make Big Bucks

2009-01-26T23:31:00.001-08:00

Do you know how readers decide to buy a book? 1) They get a referral from a friend. 2) They see an interesting book title on the best-seller list. 3) They look up a topic (generally non-fiction) and look for a book closest to their interest (generally based on titles). 4) They browse in the bookstore looking for an interesting title ? then they read the book jacket copy. 5) They look on an Internet bookseller's website to find out what other people bought under that title or subject, then they look at book reviews. 6) Finally, generally based on title and book jacket copy or book reviews, they buy your book.

Have you ever bought a book just because of the title? I remember one time when I was browsing in a local bookstore and the book title I was looking at was so provocative; I just had to have it. It turned out to be a humor book, very funny and entertaining. But I never would have purchased the book if it weren't for the title. I wouldn't have even noticed it! Many other times I've seen ads for business books relating to marketing or sales and found an irresistible title, I simply had to have it!

Here's how a great title helped to sell 300,000 books while a poorly chosen title for the same book sold only 1500 copies. Just as a headline can make all the difference in an ad, so the title of your book, especially a non-fiction one, can make the difference between dramatic success (300,000 copies sold) and failure (1,500 copies sold). Would you like to know the secrets of what makes the difference?

For example, here are two actual titles for the same book that were tested, one against the other. One of these was a winner and the other a loser. "The Squash Book" vs. "The Zucchini Cookbook".

In this case, the second book title did better than the first (300,000 copies sold) because it was more specific, letting people know that it was about zucchini squash. It also addressed the needs of the many people who grow zucchini in their yards and don't know what to do with them all. In addition, the title, "The Zucchini Cookbook" let people know that this was a cookbook and not a book about how to grow the vegetable or some other topic related to zucchini. "The Squash Book" only sold 1,500 copies! So, does being specific sell? You won't know until you test.

This particular example underlines the importance of testing your title before you actually publish your book. Try testing several good book titles, then pick the one that did best, you'll be a lot closer to sales success than by just guessing.

An aspiring author created what he thought was a cute book title, "Swimming Chickens". Later he decided that the dismal sales of his literary effort were due to the title he had chosen so he came up with a new one. After reviewing the "hot" topics in the National Enquirer and other such publications he came up with this remarkably successful title "Lose Weight Through Great Sex With Celebrities: the Elvis Way". The book sold several hundred thousand copies and you can still find it on Amazon.com.

Do you think that only short titles sell? There are many examples of direct response marketers who have used long titles (up to 17 words) and still been very successful, often more successful than with short titles. The interesting thing is that direct marketers live or die through the success of their book sales so they test everything before they make a big sales effort.

Here's an example of a case in which a direct marketer bought the rights to an excellent book, with a very short title, that was not making money. He changed the title, then took the book from almost no sales to hundreds of thousands of dollars in sales. The original losing title was "The Letter Book" and the multi-million dollar winning title was "Slash Your Letter Writing Time by 80% and Write Better Letters". Which version would you buy?

Another remarkable example of improved sales with a better title involved a self-published book called "The Entrepreneurs' Manual", which sold only 12 copies. The direct marketing savvy author renamed the book "Why SOB's Succeed and Nice Guys Fail in Business" and sold 700,000 copies over a period of several years.

When creating your book title, be sure to use important keywords if you plan to sell it online. I recently came across a book about Internet auctions that did not have the keyword eBay in the title. Even though the book received good reviews, prospective buyers overlooked it, because when someone typed in eBay, this excellent auction book did not show up. Since eBay is the premier auction site on the Internet, the keyword eBay should certainly be included in the title of any such book.

Now you have seen the power of a good book title in action. Many authors, publishers and self-publishers have used ideas similar to the ones in this article to turn book sales disasters into book sales success!

Teddi McDonald has been an Internet marketer and copywriter for over 7 years. She writes winning Internet sales copy and helps clients earn more money from their websites. Contact her through her website <a target="_new" href="http://www.success77.com">goal setting</a>

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Navigating the Amazon Sales Ranking

2009-01-26T21:50:00.001-08:00