Setting Up a Book Tour
(Part 2)
On part 1 of this two part series we looked at the first 3 things you must do to have a successful book tour. On this second part we will start by providing you with a template of what to say when approaching an influencer.
4. Reach-out to Influencers (Continued from Part 1.)
TEMPLATE
Subject: Book tour
[Influencer’s name here],
My name is [Your name] and I have enjoyed your content and your community for awhile now.
My book, [your book’s name], recently published by Briggs & Schuster, is about [incert exciting 2 lines book description], which I believe will intrigue your audience.
I am planning a book tour between [book tour date] and will be at [town name] on [date you will be in town]. I would love to make your (show, blog) one of my media stops. I am open to an interview, review, giveaway, media chat, reader Q&As and more.
You can review a sample of my writing here: [link] Also, I would be happy to send you a digital copy of my book to help you decide whether this is a good fit for you.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
[Author’s name and contact information]
5. Establish Your Goal
Selling a book is simply not enough. It’s not just about promoting your book either. Your goal should include adding value to your audience and to your host’s audience. Your goal should tie-in with everything you do online and offline (posts, interviews, virtual appearances). It should also include a call-to-action for your audience. And yes, that call-to-action may be for them to buy your book and place a review of it online.
6. Take Action
Now that you have an outlined goal and a prepared schedule, it’s time to start promoting your book tour in every way you can:
- Post on social media.
- Share the news about the blogs and broadcasters that will be interviewing you.
- Post and pin to the top of your blog the dates, times and venues of your tour.
- Add all the news to your eNewsletter and send it to your list.
- Get your fans, friends and family to share your posts about the tour.
- Create a video about your tour, your book and post it on video channels like YouTube and Facebook.
TIP: It’s not good to be the squeaky wheel. No one likes annoyances. Instead, seek to add value to your audience.
7. Assessment
Once the tour is done, it’s time to assess what went well and what needs improvement. Also, it’s time to send a note to your interviewers, venue managers/directors and thank them for being a part of your tour. Being nice and courteous will go a long way in building your network.
Don’t forget to add all of contacts emails to your email list. Connect with them every 3 – 6 months or weekly through your blog.
TIP: If marketing is what you need, contract a marketeer to assist you. If you don’t believe in yourself enough to invest on your career, why should anyone else?
Conclusion
I know this may sounds like a lot to remember, but just like driving a car or riding a bicycle, all will become second-nature as you practice. I can’t wait to hear from you about your successes on the road.