The plotting and planning of your book involves numerous critical factors, and perhaps the most pivotal aspect is the book launch. Setting a solid start date and creating a comprehensive launch plan are vital to the success of your tome.
To determine the ideal start date, you must first consider the best time to release your book. One effective approach is to avoid peak competition by launching during an off-season. Publishers typically release books in three main seasons: January, Summer season, and Fall. Fall is the most prominent publishing season, as it includes titles aimed at the New Year, such as those related to diet, life goals, and finances. While launching during these months is possible, it will likely mean competing with many major titles. However, there are exceptions, and additional investigation is crucial.
To stay informed about upcoming releases and publishing trends, a valuable resource I recommend is publishersmarketplace.com. By joining this site, you can access current information through its daily newsletter, Publishers Lunch, and its weekly newsletter, Deal Lunch, which covers deals signed during the previous week. This service is a treasure trove of publishing data, including access to editorial staff, past deals, and other publishing-related information. Even if you are not specifically targeting New York publishers, staying informed about the industry will give you a competitive edge.
Another crucial aspect of your pre-launch plan is researching other, similar authors in your genre. Get to know other authors in your market, particularly industry leaders, and consider joining their mailing lists — network with them and let their strategies and activities inspire you.
Observing in this way will not only provide valuable insights but also help you understand the dynamics of your market. Remember, success in your industry requires active participation in the conversation, and staying informed about market trends is key.
Furthermore, staying up-to-date with news items related to your industry is essential. This will not only aid you in determining the best publishing season for your book but also enable you to incorporate new trends into your work. Engaging in discussions about market trends and hot industry topics can build anticipation and interest around your book.
In the digital age, tracking industry developments has become easier than ever with tools like Google Alerts (www.google.com/alerts). Utilize this service by inputting relevant keywords to receive timely updates in your inbox. Additionally, set up an alert for yourself to monitor what others are saying about you and where you are being mentioned. This will help you proactively manage your online presence and respond to discussions about your work.
In conclusion, strategic planning for your book launch is crucial for achieving maximum impact and success. By carefully choosing the right timing, staying informed about the competition, and being proactive in tracking industry trends, you can position your book for a successful launch and engaging market conversation. Remember, in the realm of book marketing, knowledge is power, and a well-armed author is destined for greatness.
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Penny C. Sansevieri, Founder and CEO of Author Marketing Experts, Inc., is a bestselling author and internationally recognized book marketing and media relations expert. She is an Adjunct Professor teaching Self-Publishing for NYU. She was named one of the top influencers of 2019 by New York Metropolitan Magazine.
Her company is one of the leaders in the publishing industry and has developed some of the most innovative Amazon visibility campaigns as well offering national media pitching, online book marketing, author events, and other strategies designed to build the author/book visibility.
She is the author of 23 books, including the soon-to-be released: "The Amazon Author Formula," "Revise and Re-Release Your Book", "5-Minute Book Marketing for Authors," and “From Book to Bestseller.”
AME has had dozens of books on top bestseller lists, including those of the New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal.
To learn more about Penny’s books or her promotional services, visit www.amarketingexpert.com.