How to Market Reference Books

Consider your audience when marketing your reference book.

When trying to market a reference book, consider your audience. If it is educational in nature, as most reference books are, you will want to market to teachers, schools and educational bookstores. Also, look for websites, stores and organizations that are relevant to the topic of your book and think of ways you could advertise through these sources.

Instructions

1. Create a website. Be sure to include a photo and description of your book, any reviews that have been done on your book, and your photo and biography -- listing your qualifications, awards and achievements. Sell your book on your website or include links to where your book can be purchased.

2. Advertise your book online at other sites. Submit your website's link to search engines and related directories. Email the owners of educational websites or any website covering a topic related to your book and ask them if you can advertise on their pages. Ask friends who own websites or blogs to post a link to your website. Join email groups with members that may be interested in your book and include a link to your website in your email signature.

3. Advertise your book in print. Place ads in newspapers and include a picture of your book. Print bookmarks that contain a picture of your book and distribute to bookstores, high schools, colleges and universities. Write articles and commentaries for newspapers and magazines and include the name of your book in your bio, or mention your book directly in your article.

4. Contact bookstores that carry books similar to yours. Examples include school bookstores and educational bookstores. You should also contact online bookstores to see if you can sell your book on their websites.

References

• "How to Promote, Advertise and Market Your Published Book"; Arline Chase and Mary Cox-Bilz; 2001