Welcome to fall 🍂 ... the season of pumpkin-spiced everything, cooler weather (fingers crossed!), and the official kickoff of holiday sales!! 🎁
Now, while sipping on your pumpkin latte and cozying up in your favorite sweater may make you feel all toasty inside, we get that the thought of holiday sales might not be your cup of tea.
But here's the deal: now is the perfect time to start prepping your author marketing game for the holidays.
And while just reading those words may cause your pulse to race, don't freak out!
As always, we've got you covered.
Here are three areas you might want to consider focusing on in the days and weeks to come if you, or your publisher, will be offering any deals on your books in November and December:
1. Your newsletter. Since newsletters are the best way to reach readers, you'll want to think about planning out your next few months' worth of newsletter content as soon as possible. Remember, people will be busy during the holidays so you'll want to connect with them when they still have the time (and bandwidth) to open your email. And when they do, you want to make sure they have all the necessary information, whether it be links to your website, your publisher's website, Amazon, or elsewhere.
*Oh, don't be afraid to send a reminder email if needed on the day your sale goes live. Your readers will appreciate the reminder and the opportunity to snatch up your books at a great price!
2. Social Media. Yep, you need to share any sales you'll be having on social media! And now is the time to start creating and scheduling those posts so you don't get caught up in your own holiday prep and forget to advertise. It's also a great time to do some research on ads (whether it's Facebook, Instagram, BookBub, or Amazon) if that's something you're interested in and get those set up so you can reach even more people.
3. Paid promo sites. Just like ads, paid promotional sites are a great way to announce any special offerings you have this holiday season. But you need to act fast! The available promo slots fill up quickly so if you know you will be having any type of special on your books (free, discounted, bundles, etc.) don't wait to get on their schedule!!
Here are a few of the sites that we personally recommend:
Now you may be feeling a little overwhelmed by all the information we've shared. That's okay! Take a deep breath and count to 10.
Everything's going to be alright.
Just as with any part of your author marketing, you don't have to do it all. Figure out what works best for you, your schedule and your budget then work from there.
But remember, the key to success is preparation so we hope you'll take the time to start working on your holiday author marketing plans as soon as possible. And if there’s anything our team can do for you, we’re just a click, call, or pumpkin-spiced drink away!