Book Signing: Fun and Profit for Writers and Readers

Have you ever walked into a bookstore when an author is scheduled to do a book signing and found no one in the audience? Do you shy away from autograph tables, perhaps fearing that someone may ask you to buy a book? Consider the other side of the equation. A book signing is an opportunity to learn about the author and what makes a person undertake the challenge of writing a book. If you're a reader, you can delve into background information about the book. If you are an aspiring author, you can learn from another author's experiences. Every book signing is an opportunity to learn-without obligation to buy anything.

Book signings can be held almost anywhere. Is your book about gardening, nutrition, or money? Why not have an event at a large garden supply outlet, a spa, or a banking institution? Are you writing about an exciting period of music or interesting musicians? Then consider one of the big local music stores for the seminar. On the other hand, if you're a speaker or professional seminar leader, why not sign your books in a nearby bookstore in addition to selling them at the back of the room when you give your next presentation?

To help publicize a book signing, coordinate it with a special day, like Grandparents Day, or some topical holiday that has special meaning in context with the subject matter of your book. Several Internet web sites offer hundreds of dates that you can use for a public relations opportunity. Think of different and innovative ways to connect your book and your ideas to something that is already scheduled to happen in the area. For instance, if your book has anything to do with women's health, you may tie into a local Race for the Cure event, which supports research on breast cancer. Or, dream up a day of your choice to publicize your book. "Today is national TAKE CHARGE day!" Couple a book signing with seminars or speeches you have already scheduled, a family reunion, or other special event. Where would your target audience likely gather? Find that place and go there!

Provide a mini-seminar on the topic of your book. Some people in your audience may have already read it and want to pose specific questions. Prepare comments, anecdotes, and insights in advance. Greet your public enthusiastically and welcome their questions.

Book signings can be exciting for writers and readers and profitable for everyone.

Jo Condrill is a professional speaker, author, and consultant. She has conducted successful book signings across the US, including one in Rockefeller Center in New York City. "From Book Signing to Best Seller: An Insider's Guide to Conducting a Successful Low-Cost Book Signing Tour," which was coauthored by John B. Slack, was named the 2002 Best Writer's Reference Guide by the Bay Area Independent Publishers Association. http://www.publishandprosper.com

---

Better Links Directory

How to Get Your Book Reviewed

Imagine your book at the top of the Best Sellers... Read More

Marketing Virus ? Every Writer Needs to Catch It

For you writers aspiring to greatness, you might need a... Read More

Super Profitable Techniques for Selling Books By Mail

The total number of books sold by small, part-time mail... Read More

Titles (and Subtitles) Sell Books!

Does a title really sell a book? The short answer... Read More

Book Titles that Make Big Bucks

Do you know how readers decide to buy a book?... Read More

Writers: The Truth About Advertising, Publicity, and PR

Many of us are trying to do business and don't... Read More

Your Book Marketing Plan - Winning Strategies and Tips

Many authors hit a roadblock when it comes to putting... Read More

Top Ten Basics on Internet Article Writing to Promote your Book

Whether you have already written articles and published them or... Read More

How to Grab the No.2 Spot on Amazon for Advance Book Sales

When my first book was published way back ten years... Read More

Distribute Your Self-Published Book Online 8 Ways - Part 2

If you are discouraged because traditional methods of book or... Read More

Does Your Book Cover Pass the ?Ignore? Test?

Your book cover is the first impression a potential client... Read More

Increase Book Sales: At Book Fairs, Festivals and Trade Shows

Play a bigger game with your book sales by expanding... Read More

Top 10 Tips for Book Titles that Sell Well

A clever title is great if it is clear, but... Read More

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

Make your book stand out from the crowd! Test your... Read More

The Lecture Experience: Part I

During the past year or so, I have done nearly... Read More

Do You Long To See Your Books Published And Selling From The Major Chains?

To have your work accepted for hard copy publication is... Read More

FAQs about Book Signings

Since I self-published my first book, "101 Ways to Improve... Read More

Successful Book Marketing The Natural Way - Part 1

Is your mind muddy on book marketing? Do you wake... Read More

Book Promotion Myth -- The Best Place to Sell Books is a Bookstore

When authors think of their audience buying books they think... Read More

Five Secrets of Winning Book Proposals

Working in the publishing industry comes with a high expectation,... Read More

Oh No! A Bad Book Review! Have No Fear...Advice For Dealing With The Blues Of A Bad Book Review

You've just been notified a review of your book has... Read More

Ready, Set, Go Sell Your Book In The Real World!

We hear a lot these days about more books actually... Read More

Spend a Little Time, Get Free Books Online

There's just something so gratifying about owning your own books... Read More

You, Your Book and the Internet!

Authors, especially self published, small press and Print on Demand... Read More

Is Traditional Book Marketing Getting you Down?

"Are you disappointed and tired of time and money down... Read More