A lot of authors hire out book marketing services not just because they don’t know how to do the work, but because they’re also strapped for time.
But what if you have the time, or don’t have a lot to invest yet, what do you do?
Ideally, you’d like to hire out services that require lots of early heavy-lifting and research, because often once the initial round of work is done, handing this over to the author gets much easier – at least that’s how we’ve always worked.
I never like to assume that authors want to hire book marketing services and companies for the duration of their career – most want to do an initial push with a pro team, and then take over the reins. I really encourage this kind of collaboration!
So here are some factors to consider when determining which book marketing services you should hire out, at least to start, and why it will likely support you better in the long run.
Amazon Ads
Amazon in general requires a huge learning curve- that’s just the reality. However, the ads are changing and morphing all the time based specifically on buyer behavior, and it can be a lot to not just learn but keep up with. So, if you want to start supporting your book better on Amazon, and get in front of more readers, finding someone (like our team) that offers book marketing services for Amazon ads and can help reduce the learning curve, is worth it.
Amazon Keywords and Categories
There are a lot of automated and bot services out there, but the problem with those is that they don’t understand the human experience. Keywords should be researched and assessed based on buyer behavior. People are potentially shopping for your book, not bots. And when it comes to categories, the reality is you have to dig deeper, put in the time, and get creative. Plus, when you’re too close to your own work it’s challenging to ensure you’ve hit all the right notes.
Goodreads Networking
Goodreads is a big site and there are lots of features to take advantage of, so getting started and generating momentum can be a big undertaking. Taking it over after a team gets you set up and ready for success dramatically reduces the amount of time it will take before you start seeing results.
Pitching Media and Influencers
Pitching Media and Influencers are often a book marketing services gold standard. Bigger media pitching, like TV, radio, and national publications is a lot more successful when you have the right contacts – and the right pitch/angle. Even online influencer pitching can be a big waste of time if you don’t have the right pitch and don’t know how to find the right people. Book marketing services can help you make connections in key areas and introduce you and your book to individuals in more lucrative ways. It’s also easy to say “I’ll do my own pitching” but often much harder to execute because there are always lots of steps to going after media and influencers.
Author Brand Building and Brainstorming
I get it, this particular point feels a bit boring to you, right? But honestly getting too close to your own work is one of the biggest challenges I’ve seen authors face. If you’re feeling stuck in any way, it’s always a good idea to get some professional input and recommendations for how to change things up or reach that next level. It’s also always great to get an outside perspective from someone not emotionally tethered to your work.
I am a big fan of authors being engaged in their own success, and part of that is hiring a book marketing services company who will be your collaborative partner, who will help you set the stage for success, and do the kind of things that you don’t have the time or talent to do.
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Resources and Free Downloads
Are You Ready for Big Media Coverage
Why Categories Are Critical to Your Amazon Book Promotion
How to Sell More Books Direct to Consumer (Yes, We Mean Sidestepping Amazon)
Check out the Alliance of Independent Authors for news and resources
I could use the support for my books, but I wonder if I can afford it.
Joy use our contact form and we’ll explore options for a collaboration!