Even if you’re still in the earliest stages of writing a novel, it pays to think ahead. If your plan is to become a career author, it’s never too soon to begin laying the groundwork for success. Imagine that you’ve completed your manuscript and have “gone through the wringer” of the editing process. In the foreseeable future, your books will be available to the public. Your marketing campaign might include several book-signing events.
A worst-case scenario would be that you have “set up shop” with a folding chair, table, ink pens and, of course, stacks of your fresh-off-the-press novel, only to have no one show up. On the other end of the spectrum, envision a similar scene, but with so many readers standing in line that you can’t meet-and-greet them all, leaving would-be fans feeling disappointed. This post contains some great ideas on how to find the happy medium between these two descriptions—how to host a successful book-signing event.
A great book-signing event can boost success
Experienced authors understand the importance of marketing to broaden their audience and sell books. Book-signing events are often an integral component of a successful publishing and marketing campaign. Keep these tips in mind to prepare:
- Create and practice your “official” signature as an author.
- Consider including a small note, such as “I hope you enjoy the story!” or “Thanks for reading!” rather than merely signing your name. Always be willing to personalize by adding the reader’s name or a specific note a reader asks you to include, such as if the book is a gift for another person.
- Be prepared to paraphrase what your book is about for those who randomly approach the table to inquire.
- Make your display stand out and grab attention with items like a vertical banner, objects that are important to your story or color schemes and recognizable items associated with your brand.
- Hand out customized bookmarks with info for people to find you on social media, your author website (Yes, you should have one.) and, perhaps, a book cover image of the novel you’re promoting.
Providing a tray of cookies and coffee or a dish of candy is another way to connect with your guests at a book-signing event. Of course, you’ll want to set this up on an adjacent table to avoid spills on your books! This post contains more great ideas on how to prepare and host a successful book-signing event. These ideas can help make it your next event an enjoyable occasion for your visitors and yourself.
