Write Publish Connect - Episode 7: Book Signings

So, you've finally achieved the dream of publishing your book. Congratulations! Now, you may be thinking about how to organize a book signing event to showcase your work and connect with your readers. And what better place to hold a book signing than in a bookstore? Today, we're going to walk you through the steps of getting your book into a bookstore and making your signing event a success!

Step 1: Come Prepared

Before reaching out to bookstores, it's important to make sure you are equipped with the right materials. Bookstores appreciate professionalism, so be sure to have a few copies of your book on hand. Additionally, create a sell sheet or flyer that highlights key information about your book, such as the ISBN, retail price, and author bio. This documentation will help bookstores understand the vital details they need to consider when showcasing your book.

Step 2: Reach Out to Bookstores

Now that you're prepared, it's time to reach out to bookstores. There are two main ways to do this – through an email pitch or by visiting the bookstore in person. Craft a customized email pitch with your attached sell sheet, or simply walk into a bookstore and introduce yourself as a recently published author. Surprisingly, getting a bookstore signing is not as difficult as you may think. With a little effort, you can secure a spot to showcase your work and interact with potential readers.

Step 3: Make Your Book Signing Stand Out

Once you've secured a book signing at a bookstore, it's important to make your event memorable and engaging. You want to leave a lasting impression on readers and bookstore staff alike. Here are a few tips to make your book signing stand out:

1. Have a greeter: Choose someone outgoing and confident to greet people as they enter the store. They can hand out postcards or other promotional materials, letting customers know about your event.

2. Capture the Moment: Hire a photographer or ask a friend to document the event. Photos serve as valuable content for your website and social media, and they add a level of legitimacy for potential media coverage.

3. Add a Game Element: To attract and engage readers, incorporate an activity related to your book. For example, if you're a children's author, provide coloring sheets and crayons for kids. If you've written a self-help book, have questionnaires ready to spark conversations with readers.

4. Collect Email Addresses: Offer a raffle or giveaway that requires participants to enter their email addresses. This allows you to build your mailing list and continue engaging with readers even after the event.

5. Include a Reading: If possible, consider doing a reading, especially if your book is children-oriented. Kids love listening to stories, and bookstores are usually accommodating towards this type of activity.

Step 4: Consignment Agreements

After a successful book signing, you'll want to make sure your book gets a spot on the bookstore shelves. Most bookstores are open to taking books on consignment. This means they will display and attempt to sell a certain number of copies. If any books remain unsold after a specified period, you can collect them and decide what to do next. A successful book signing will catch the attention of the bookstore and increase the chances of your book being prominently displayed.

Utilize the Resources at Axel Author Services

If the idea of organizing a book signing seems overwhelming, don't worry – Alexis and her team at Axel Author Services are here to help. They can guide you through the entire process, providing templates for marketing materials, consignment agreements, and email pitches. With their expertise, you can navigate the world of book signings and ensure your event is a success.

So, if you're ready to take the next step in your publishing journey, reach out to Axel Author Services. You can visit their website at www.axelauthorservices.com or email Alexa directly at [email protected].

Remember, a book signing is not just an opportunity to connect with your readers, but also a chance to showcase your professionalism and engage in fruitful conversations about your work. Good luck with your book signing journey, and may your event be filled with success and joy!