Eight tips for authors at a book signing

On November 25th, I was invited to Joseph Beth Book Sellers for Small Business Saturday.

Ten authors participated. We were set up in a semi-circle near the back of the store.

Most of the authors kept to themselves and sat quietly behind their tables. After the event, I was shocked to learn that most of the writers only sold one or two books.

I sold a good number of books. Here's what I did that helped make the difference.

1. Emailed invitations to friends.
2. Sent Facebook invitations to local
acquaintances.
3. Created an eye-catching display.
4. Stood in front of the table the
entire time. Yep, achy feet
were worth it.
5. Gave away stuffed animals when
three books were bought.
6. Handed out bookmarks to passersby.
7. Talked to people about the local
connection (a rescue dog named
Charlie) and showed them his
gorgeous picture in the back of
the book.
8. Thanked people for coming to the
event.

I'm not a salesperson, but I do know you have to plan ahead. You have to get creative. Selling books is hard work, but if you put forth some effort, you will find success.