Selling Your Book Traditionally After Self-Publishing with David Nihill
Jul 5, 2023
auto_awesome
David Nihill, a bestselling author and comedian from Dublin, shares his journey from self-publishing to securing a traditional book deal. He reveals powerful book launch strategies and the importance of assembling an effective launch team. With humor, he discusses the challenges of forming a book review team and navigating complex pre-order processes. Nihill emphasizes the benefits of self-publishing, the necessity of community support, and the impact of data on marketing. His insights are a treasure trove for aspiring authors looking to succeed!
Effective book launches require intentional strategies, such as utilizing engaged launch teams to boost initial support and reviews.
Recording an audiobook prior to finalizing the written version allows authors to identify content improvements and enhance overall quality.
Deep dives
Emerging Author Program
The Emerging Author Program offers an opportunity for aspiring authors to publish an authority-building book without the typical self-publishing stigma. Participants receive access to proprietary methods and one-on-one coaching, which allows them to effectively implement the information gained and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, those who enroll can publish under an established imprint, enhancing their association with traditional publishing standards. This program is a cost-effective alternative for individuals committed to building their business through published works.
Book Launch Strategies
Successful book launches hinge on intentional strategies that can elevate an author’s career rather than merely adding a book to their shelf. The episode details various techniques shared by successful authors, such as utilizing launch teams comprised of engaged readers for initial support and reviews. For example, a well-crafted email can rally readers to join a launch team, ensuring they have access to an early copy and a sense of accountability for leaving reviews. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes crafting a launch that serves as a powerful marketing tool for the author's business.
The Importance of Audiobooks
Recording an audiobook before finalizing the written version can significantly improve the content, as authors often identify areas for enhancement during the process. A guest shares his experience of making substantial changes after recording, highlighting how reading aloud can reveal flaws that weren't apparent in written form. Moreover, it is crucial to align the audiobook release with that of the print and ebook formats to maximize promotional efforts. This strategy contributes to a cohesive launch, ensuring that all formats are available simultaneously for potential buyers.
Leveraging Online Communities
Joining online writing communities and groups can prove invaluable for authors seeking guidance and support in their publishing journey. A guest describes how participation in a successful Facebook group provided insights and inspiration for effective book launch strategies. He emphasizes the importance of learning from others' experiences, particularly regarding topics such as marketing and audience engagement. Utilizing these communities not only helps in generating ideas but also fosters connections with potential readers who may contribute to the book's success.
Originally from Dublin Ireland, David Nihill is the founder of FunnyBizz Conference, bestselling author of Do You Talk Funny?, winner of San Francisco International Comedy Competition, runner up in the Moth’s largest US Grandslam storytelling competition and the first-ever Irishman to have a special on Dry Bar Comedy. His work has been featured in Inc, The Huffington Post, Forbes, Fast Company, Lifehacker, The Irish Times, TED, The Irish Independent, Today FM, and on TV3.
He and I met through friends a few years ago and I was immediately impressed not only with his barely indecipherable accent but also with how much knowledge he possessed about marketing, books and how to make them successful. This impression was only solidified when, a few days later, he sent me an email packed with all the strategies he'd used to make his book so successful that he was able to then sell it to a major publisher.
In this episode, we go through all those ideas and more. If you listened to the episode, you know that I promised I would give you the email he sent out to his launch team, which you are welcome to copy and steal (he will never know, unless he's reading this, in which case I say hi David!)