Converting Campaigns That Pitch Fictional Books

Mark,

A couple days ago, a family member gave me two brown grocery bags full of direct mail pitches from political and charitable groups.

As I go through them, perhaps I can find an ad (or ads) that will be a good swipe.

I don't understand how a fictional book relates to a cause, though. Don't causes usually stem from a perceived injustice in the world?

If you could explain further, I'll keep your situation in mind as go through this stuff.

Alex

Here are some random thoughts:

--Fiction readers are voracious. They like to develop a relationship with an author. Often the best marketing for one book is to have several more available. Many do not want to get involved with an author unless there are other titles.

--If the author only has one book, an alternative is to work with similar authors in the niche. Co-promote each other's titles that would appeal to the same reader.

--Public readings/speaking/appearances are powerful. Get the author booked to speak to organizations related to the cause. Video all appearances and post to video sites.

--Consider getting sponsors. They can sponsor book tours, appearances, merchandise, special events. The author can even work them into the book text itself, or as an sponsor with a page in the back or in the middle of the book.

--Have a page in the back with order forms/information for other books or products from the author.

--Have a question and answer sheet ready to go for reporters, bloggers, radio and TV interviewers. You will be ahead of 99 percent of authors if you prepare a Q and A sheet for reporters. They love it because they don't have to think about what to ask you. Read more here.

--Get creative. What town is the book set in? Have tours of key landmarks in the book. The mysterious trawler. The beach where the body disappeared. The creaky bridge. The old house outside of town.

Or create virtual video tours. Here is an example:


--Amazon reviews are important for social proof and they also determine which books get promoted in the algorithms. Encourage reviews by giving away free books via email lists or cross-promotions with other authors in the niche.

--Anonymity is death. Create press releases, videos, social media channels. Make noise.

--Pitch websites/blogs in the niche to create a guest post.

--Forum posts in high profile forums in the niche.

--Don't forget to contact regional magazines, groups, online directories, book clubs, university professors, activists, associations, etc.

--Would you benefit by approaching foreign language groups and media? For example, a novel involving immigration rights may benefit by offering posts, press releases and interviews to Spanish media. Translation services do not have to be expensive but be careful.

--Celebrity involvement. It is not that expensive to get a celebrity to appear at a rally or event. Determine which celebs support the cause and see how much they would charge to attend an event in your town. You might be surprised how cheap it is. They may even do it for free.

--Get this book:
Amazon.com: How To Market A Book eBook: Joanna...