A solid marketing strategy is essential for indie authors who want to achieve their goals efficiently and effectively. I divide my marketing plan into three key phases: pre-publication, publication, and post-publication.
Pre-Publication Phase
The first step in pre-publication is soliciting reviewers. Offer a free copy of your book in exchange for an honest review. Start this process early—reviews can take months or even years to materialize.
During this phase, begin building your author platform. This includes creating a website, maintaining a blog, and establishing a social media presence. You can create your own website or hire a professional web designer who specializes in author sites. Consistency is key with blogging: it’s better to post once a month than to post several times a week for a short period and then stop altogether.
Additionally, reach out to other literary bloggers for guest posts or interviews. This helps you gain exposure while networking with other authors, reviewers, and readers.
Publication Phase
When publishing, I use eBook platforms such as Amazon KDP and Smashwords to reach a broad online audience. For paperback editions, I use IngramSpark and, in some cases, professional formatting services.
Amazon allows you to select keywords and categories to help readers discover your book. Use effective keywords and choose categories with fewer titles to improve your chances of achieving bestseller status. Be sure to add your book to sites like Goodreads, LibraryThing, and Shelfari, and claim your author profiles to access promotional tools.
Promote your book on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Google Plus to expand your reach and engage potential readers.
Post-Publication Phase
After your book is published, continue promoting it through social media and work to garner additional reviews. Reach out to libraries and bookstores to encourage purchases, and participate in literary events or book festivals to increase exposure and connect with readers.
Adaptability Is Key
While following your marketing plan, it’s important to remain flexible and adaptable. I often had to adjust or revise my original strategy based on results or changing circumstances. The world of indie publishing is dynamic, and success requires the ability to pivot and evolve.
By thoughtfully executing a marketing strategy across pre-publication, publication, and post-publication phases, indie authors can maximize exposure, build their audience, and grow their author platform effectively.
This post is part of my “Indie Author Marketing” blog series. Please be sure to check out my Greco Family Trilogy books, including Olive Branches Don’t Grow on Trees, Discovery of an Eagle, and The Bird that Sang in Color. These books are available from all major online book sellers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Apple Books.
