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Think Outside of the Bookstore
Selling your book can be hard. It is important to make your book stand out, as competition can be
overwhelming. At large bookstores like Amazon.com, Borders, and Barnes and Noble, your book
may get little attention in the sea of other books. Book signings and other special marketing ploys
at book superstores may not be enough. Instead of sneaking neon lights and whooping sirens into
these giant bookstores to get your book attention, you might want to try an easier tactic. Try
selling your book at specialty locations.
Local Events
Word of mouth will travel quickly if you make an appearance and sell your book at a local event.
Check with your local city hall to see what events are coming to your city. You can set up a booth
at an art festival or city fair. You will get the chance to meet readers that share a common trait
with you: your community. Also check for events or fundraiser from local organizations or
churches. Offer to do a question-and-answer session or a book signing to spur interest around
your book.
Gift Shops
People waiting at airports and hospitals have extra time. Many flock to gift shops to find books
and magazines to keep them occupied. Gifts shops offer considerably less competition than the
major bookstores. Your book may be just what patrons need to help them enjoy passing the time.
Did you write a historical or art book? Try selling it at a museum gift shop. Did you write a book
about animals? Try selling it at a zoo gift shop. These tactics target your audience more
effectively, increasing your chances at getting picked up by the perfect reader.
Flea Markets
Flea markets offer a fun atmosphere. They also offer a weekly chance to sell more copies of your
book. They bring in hundreds of customers a day and can be especially helpful if you are selling a
cookbook or how-to book, because you can bring an exciting demonstration to your booth. People
at flea markets are shopping for something new and interesting. Your book will be a welcome
addition to the festivities.
Specialty Stores
Search for specialty store that corresponds to your book. If you wrote a book about interior design
or a coffee table book, try selling at a home store. If you wrote about a specific sport, such as
hiking or mountain climbing, try selling it at a store that sells hiking or climbing gear. If you
wrote a cookbook, try selling at a kitchen appliance store. It’s important to remember that
bookselling isn’t limited to bookstores.
Already Have a Following?

If you are a public speaker or give consultations at events, take your book with you. Many will
believe you are a more credible speaker if you have published a book. Link the event or your
speech with your book in a subtle way. If people like what you say, they will most likely buy
your book.
AuthorHouse offers a variety of direct marketing pieces that can help you in your marketing
efforts. Check them out at AuthorHouse.com .
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