My biggest obstacle in my career is profitability. I have a full series of eight books, with great read-through. I do everything I’m supposed to do to advertise them: Facebook Ads, freebies, group promos, daily posts on social media. But I’m still not earning much. How do I make money in this business?
Seeking More Sales (Aren’t We All?)
Dearest Seeking Sales,
Oh, my little crumpet, this profit pickle has so many of us in a jam! But never fear—with a spot of shrewd marketing and a pinch of perseverance, I can see some serious sauce streaming your way.
First, we must get to the meat of the matter. Are your titles tasty to readers, or is the recipe a bit stale? Analyze those reviews like Gordon Ramsay studies a soufflé. Any constructive criticism on improving your batter, love? Does the plot need more flavor? Do tensions fall flat? Don’t be afraid to rework weak elements. Even renowned chefs adjust recipes until they’re Michelin-worthy!
Might I suggest you invest in Theodora Taylor’s 7 FIGURE FICTION: How to Use Universal Fantasy to SELL Your Books to ANYONE (Universal Fantasy™: Butter Up Your Writing)? In between her yellow covers, you will find out about the importance of “butter” in fiction, and as any French chef will tell you, butter is key.
Once your book is delicious, how do you get it out there for your hungry readers to devour? You said you are already doing all the things; well, do them again and again and again. Promote via multi-author Facebook Groups, choose targeted hashtags on Instagram that fit your genre and vibe, and collaborate with authors in your niche for giveaways. Partnering expands your reach immensely. Solo shouting into the void goes unheard! And if you aren’t on TikTok and using the sensation that is #BookTok, then get your TikTok game on, especially if your potential audience is young, hip, and happening. Reread past copies of IAM for lots of great advice on how to freshen up your social media and advertising.
Patience and persistence are the secret herbs and spices, darling one. As Hemingway said, "There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.” Keep grinding; sales will come, my little chocolate gateau. Consistency pays off. Master marketing with guides like Joanna Penn’s How to Market a Book or Ricardo Fayet’s How to Market a Book: Overperform in a Crowded Market. Let their wisdom season your strategy.
Track precisely where sales originate. Analytics tools like Publisher Rocket or Book Brush identify your "superfans.” Tailor ads and promos to those groups. Study reviews to see what draws readers in. More Romance than Fantasy? More action, less cozy? Adjust your recipe! As Twain said, “Many a small thing has been made large by the right kind of advertising.”
And finally, don’t forget the importance of a good cover and book description. You mentioned you get good read-through, so increased sales are possible once you get readers to taste your wares. Remember, we eat with our eyes first, so are your books whetting their appetites? Ask other authors in your genres, or even ask your readers through your newsletter, to critically appraise your covers. Take a forensic lens to the top-selling books in your genre. How do yours sit alongside them? Do your covers draw readers in, and do your blurbs make their mouths water? Fixing your blurb is quick and free to do. The covers may take more time and money, but this investment will be worth it. Use only the choicest ingredients if you want to be the best.
This is a seven-course marketing meal, not a snack. Stay open to feedback, keep passion kindled, constantly improve your book “ingredients,” and your sales will flourish! Now onward, my petite pastry chef. That bestseller dough won’t knead itself.
Bon appétit!
Happy writing,
Indie Annie
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