How to Promote a Self-Published Book Online with No Money

Promotion is crucial to get readers for your self-published book.

One of the biggest challenges of selling a self-published book is promotion. Without the strength of a publisher behind the book you will need to get the world out to potential readers. With the wide range of free online tools available, you can develop a promotional plan that requires nothing more than your computer and Internet access. By taking the time to build interest in your book, you can increase sales and generate curiosity among readers.

Instructions

1. Build a website for your book using a free online site builder like Blogger or WordPress. When you pick the name of the site, use the full title of the book; doing so will make it easier to find through online searches. Build pages for a synopsis, an "about the author" section, ordering information and testimonials or reviews. Place ordering buttons in prominent places throughout the site so readers can find them easily.

2. Create social media profiles for your book. Use the cover design or your author photo as the profile picture and include a link to your website. Invite your friends and family to become friends or followers and ask them to invite their networks to do the same. As the publication date nears, put out regular updates to keep people thinking about it.

3. Ask bloggers to read the book and publish a review on their sites. Choose writers who have a big following or who write about topics similar to your book's subject and send them a PDF file. Bear in mind that bloggers may write bad reviews, so choose carefully. When the reviews are published, post links to your website and your social media profiles.

4. Send out an email announcement about your book when it is up for sale. Write a short email that puts a personal spin on the book, including information on how you came up with the idea, how excited you are to be releasing it and possibly a memorable anecdote from the writing process. Include a link so readers can go straight to the download page. Send the email to everyone in your address book, from former coworkers to your family members.

5. Write a press release about your book and save it in PDF form. Create a different release for each publication that includes information tailored to its readers. For a local newspaper, focus on your connections to the area and how the book relates to it. For a niche publication, explain why the book will interest readers. Include information about how to buy the book. Email the release to local media outlets and specialty publications.

References

• "PC Magazine"; 17 Cheap or Free Marketing Ideas; Kathy Yakal; April 2009

Resources

• WordPress
• Blogger