Tips on Writing a Book that Sells<\/strong> – Anne Hillerman, Hampton Sides, Paul Rhetts, Katy\u00a0Hershberger<\/p>\n

What is a “promotable” author?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Hampton: Writers want people to buy\u00a0their books – the reading part is secondary.<\/p>\n

Anne: People are fascinated with authors. They love having contact with someone who has written a book. Part of being an author is making the time to go out and talk to people.<\/p>\n

Katy: It’s about enthusiasm.\u00a0Be up for doing those tours and signings.<\/p>\n

What else can authors do to promote themselves?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Anne: I think you really have to have a good website. People love videos, too. Facebook has been a really good marketing tool, and I try to answer my emails – you can’t really tell if those things translate into sales, but it makes me feel good.<\/p>\n

Hampton: I was told to interview myself. Try to anticipate the sorts of questions you’ll be asked during an interview. It’s a cheat sheet. Also, come up with some sort of individual book tour based on your audience. Take control and go where your readers are.<\/p>\n

Paul: I think authors need to have a long-term view. It’s a long-term relationship with your readers and your publishers. It’s not a matter of money. One of the things authors can do for themselves is to\u00a0build a list of potential readers as soon as they start writing. Keep adding to it as you go along. Facebook is a great way to keep your name and book in front of the audience.<\/p>\n

Katy: publishers are looking for authors who think of this as a career.<\/p>\n

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