The last four weeks have been filled with actual author events. Starting in New York on August 17 with an author tea at Silver Lake and wrapping up today with the Sierra Vista Library celebration. Events have spanned the country! In between were two radio interviews on local stations in Sierra Vista and Bisbee. Since this is my first foray into the public arena with books in hand, it's been a little exciting. Here are some observations from this flurry of activity.
1. It's fun to meet flesh and blood readers since I work in the virtual realm most of the time.
2. Who knew that I might actually be an interesting radio show guest?!
3. Sometimes books go like hotcakes and other times, not so much.
4. There's still a little bit of awe about meeting an author. "You're a real author?" (Comment from young boy at today's event.) It is possible I didn't look like one, so I could be mistaken about this.
5. It's hard to predict just how many books you'll need for any given event.
6. Meeting other writers is encouraging. You can also commiserate on the challenges of marketing.
7. It's great to have family and friends come out to support you. Especially those who help set up and tear down.
I've connected with some really nice people who've hosted these events and scheduled radio interviews. They've gone out of their way to make it fun and engaging. They've also provided excellent refreshments! You have to keep up your strength after all.
Here are a few tips for authors getting ready for a book signing, etc.
1. Have something people can take with them like bookmarks, brochures, or business cards. Even if they didn't buy a book today, they may tomorrow if the information is in hand.
2. Have a sign up for your e-newsletter. Don't have one? Think about putting one together. It's an invaluable tool in building a fan base.
3. Attractive signs and display. Put your best foot forward. It doesn't have to be complex, but it has to be inviting. Look professional. Acrylic sign holders (8 1/2 x 11) are a good investment.
4. Keep a bottle of water handy whether you're inside or outside. Talking makes you thirsty.
5. Make sure you have extra pens.
6. Keep smiling and have fun.
1. It's fun to meet flesh and blood readers since I work in the virtual realm most of the time.
2. Who knew that I might actually be an interesting radio show guest?!
3. Sometimes books go like hotcakes and other times, not so much.
4. There's still a little bit of awe about meeting an author. "You're a real author?" (Comment from young boy at today's event.) It is possible I didn't look like one, so I could be mistaken about this.
5. It's hard to predict just how many books you'll need for any given event.
6. Meeting other writers is encouraging. You can also commiserate on the challenges of marketing.
7. It's great to have family and friends come out to support you. Especially those who help set up and tear down.
I've connected with some really nice people who've hosted these events and scheduled radio interviews. They've gone out of their way to make it fun and engaging. They've also provided excellent refreshments! You have to keep up your strength after all.
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| Ready to go - Sierra Vista Library Event |
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| Good friend and fellow author, Diane helping schlep the books |
1. Have something people can take with them like bookmarks, brochures, or business cards. Even if they didn't buy a book today, they may tomorrow if the information is in hand.
2. Have a sign up for your e-newsletter. Don't have one? Think about putting one together. It's an invaluable tool in building a fan base.
3. Attractive signs and display. Put your best foot forward. It doesn't have to be complex, but it has to be inviting. Look professional. Acrylic sign holders (8 1/2 x 11) are a good investment.
4. Keep a bottle of water handy whether you're inside or outside. Talking makes you thirsty.
5. Make sure you have extra pens.
6. Keep smiling and have fun.
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