Road to Publication: Getting Started with Marketing

I can barely wait to see the cover from Astraea Press for my debut Yakimali’s Gift, but waiting I am. I was told the artist should have it finished sometime this month. Once I have that, I’ll be able to start down my checklist of websites where I can promote my book before my release date of July 29th.

In the meantime, there are still some things I can do to get ready for the marketing push.

I’m researching book trailer producers, because these days, it seems, you must have one. I think they are a cool way to promote your book. One friend recommended Stupeflix to create your own trailer, so I’ll check that out along with some producer recommendations, as well as doing a google search for others.

I signed up for a Book Marketing Challenge, which is either free, or you can pay a fee for some extra perks given to the “Gold Members.” This is a 30-day class with new lessons each day and chock full of extra articles and expert advice. Some of the lessons only apply to non-fiction writers, but fiction writers will find the class very helpful.

I also started receiving the Build Book Buzz newsletter and blog via email.

Between Book Marketing Challenge and Build Book Buzz, I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed with the amount of book marketing information I need to take in. But better to be overwhelmed than underwhelmed. I expect these two resources will help give me a big leap forward into my marketing strategy.

Another thing I can do right now is design and order my business cards. This is a job I look forward to doing since I have an art background and don’t often get to have fun with drawing and design.

I’m in the middle of searching for a business card manufacturer. There are a lot to choose from, and you would think they’d all be pretty much the same. But when one writer friend received her cards, they were completely different than her original design.

I’ll let you know who I decide to go with, and show you the cards when they come in.

Oh, and there’s that cover. I believe a cover reveal is in store for later this month. Fingers crossed, anyway!

Do you have any tips for getting started with book marketing?