We live in a very unique time where authors can leverage the online space to market a book without spending a dime. In fact, you can start spreading the word about your book before it’s even finished! All it takes is a little time, a lot of dedication, and the determination to learn.
While the online space is filled with opportunities, it’s also filled with a lot of jargon that may be unfamiliar. Today, we’re going to break down a few of those terms to get you started. Below, you’ll find a quick overview of five different ways to market your book online for free.
Content marketing
Content marketing involves the use of written, visual, and/or auditory content to educate and provide value to your audience. This includes blogs, YouTube videos, and podcasts. With content marketing, it is best to start with one platform instead of trying to be everywhere at once. You can use the content on your chosen platform to provide value to your audience. People are more likely to make a purchase when you’ve already shown them your expertise.
Social media marketing
Social media marketing is a way of leveraging existing platforms to grow and connect with your audience. There are many different platforms that can be used in different ways. Social media marketing can be as simple as sharing your content with people on Facebook or Instagram. With the right plan, you can reach a bigger audience and create new relationships. Relationships often lead to sales. Some examples of social media to explore include Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. These are just a few of the most popular platforms – new ones pop up all the time.
Search Engine Optimization
Search engine optimization (or SEO) is another great way to build your audience. With SEO, you focus on including keywords and phrases that search engines will use to categorize your content. This leads to an increase in engaged traffic. SEO can be used to bring people to your website or content platform. These keywords can also be helpful when using Pinterest to drive traffic to your content and books.
Email marketing
Email marketing is the practice of using emails to provide value and drive sales. With this form of marketing, you first need to obtain permission to send emails to your audience. You can do this through an email provider using a simple sign up form. With email marketing, you’ll focus on sending periodic emails filled with updates, new content, and information related to your books.
Reputation
Building a reputation is a marketing technique that predates the Internet. However, the online space has opened up new ways of spreading the word. With this one, you can use your friends, family, and even popular influencers to help build awareness about your book. This can be done through personal shares, blog tours, and reviews on popular sites like Amazon and GoodReads. Involving others in the marketing process is a great way to build an online reputation for your book.
This is just a quick overview of the many different ways you can market your book online for free. There is a learning curve for each of these methods, but with a little time and determination, you’ll be on your way to free marketing soon! Or you could always hire someone if time is the biggest obstacle.
