Book Signing: Fun and Profit for Writers and
Readers
BY JO CONDRILL
Have you ever walked into a bookstore
when an author is scheduled to do a book signing and found no one in the
audience? Do you shy away from autograph tables, perhaps fearing that
someone may ask you to buy a book? Consider the other side of the
equation. A book signing is an opportunity to learn about the author and
what makes a person undertake the challenge of writing a book. If you're
a reader, you can delve into background information about the book. If
you are an aspiring author, you can learn from another author's
experiences. Every book signing is an opportunity to learn - without
obligation to buy anything.
Book signings can be held almost
anywhere. Is your book about gardening, nutrition, or money? Why not
have an event at a large garden supply outlet, a spa, or a banking
institution? Are you writing about an exciting period of music or
interesting musicians? Then consider one of the big local music stores
for the seminar. On the other hand, if you're a speaker or professional
seminar leader, why not sign your books in a nearby bookstore in
addition to selling them at the back of the room when you give your next
presentation?
To help publicize a book signing,
coordinate it with a special day, like Grandparents Day, or some topical
holiday that has special meaning in context with the subject matter of
your book. Several Internet web sites offer hundreds of dates that you
can use for a public relations opportunity. Think of different and
innovative ways to connect your book and your ideas to something that is
already scheduled to happen in the area. For instance, if your book has
anything to do with women's health, you may tie into a local Race for
the Cure event, which supports research on breast cancer. Or, dream up a
day of your choice to publicize your book. "Today is national TAKE
CHARGE day!" Couple a book signing with seminars or speeches you have
already scheduled, a family reunion, or other special event. Where would
your target audience likely gather? Find that place and go there!
Provide a mini-seminar on the topic of
your book. Some people in your audience may have already read it and
want to pose specific questions. Prepare comments, anecdotes, and
insights in advance. Greet your public enthusiastically and welcome
their questions.
Book signings can be exciting for
writers and readers and profitable for everyone.
Jo Condrill is an award-winning
author, speaker, and consultant. She has conducted successful book
signings across the US, including one in Rockefeller Center in New York
City. Her book,
From Book Signing to Best Seller: An Insider's Guide to Conducting a
Successful Low-Cost Book Signing Tour, coauthored by John B.
Slack, was named the 2002 Best Writer's Reference Guide by the Bay Area
Independent Publishers Association.
 |
