Novel Marketing

Description & TimesBuilding an email list made up of more than friends and family can feel impossible, especially before you've launched your first book. Eventually, you have to attract strangers. But how?How do you convince strangers to join your email list?We've been using a surprisingly effective method for years, yet I have never dedicated an entire podcast to it.In this week's episode, you'll hear from author Kelly Jo Wilson, who grew her email list to over 7,000 subscribers using a surprising tool (hint: it's not ads).You'll learn:How to turn giveaways into a powerful email growth engine using KingSumoHow to attract your ideal readers (not just freebie hunters)How to collaborate with other authors to multiply your reach and your resultsNo matter what genre you write, Kelly's strategy is very reproducible. Listen in or read the blog version for ideas on how to grow your network, serve your readers, and grow your audience.https://novelmarketingconference.com/ https://novelmarketingconference.com/Support the show

Are you having trouble starting or finishing your writing? A subtle and sinister phenomenon may be keeping you from success. It may even be the reason your book is not finished yet. It might be why your book isn’t selling.What is it? Procrastination.You can’t beat procrastination by hustling harder; you need a plan that’s smarter.So, how do you escape the procrastination prison? One step at a time.In this week’s episode, you’ll learn 10 practical steps to help you overcome distractions, reclaim your focus, and take your next step without burning out.You’ll discover:✅ One easy (but hard) step that will instantly free up mental space for writing✅ How to determine what your next action should be✅ Tools to keep you focused, motivated, and on schedule✅ A new Novel Marketing challenge that will get you started…for free!Listen in or read the blog version to find out how to beat procrastination and get back to your meaningful work.https://novelmarketingconference.com/ https://novelmarketingconference.com/Support the show

Blog version: https://www.authormedia.com/how-to-craft-a-cancel-proof-marketing-strategy/A few years ago, getting canceled could end your career. But author cancel culture has changed. Now, it can supercharge book sales.But how?In this week’s episode of Novel Marketing, I spoke with book marketer Christine Eriksen about how an indie author used an unplanned controversy as a powerful book marketing tool…and lived to tell about it.You'll learn:✅ Why cancel culture is changing and how it could affect you✅ How to navigate controversy without losing your readers or your sanity✅ A unique strategy for social media that works for a few authorsDon’t let fear of the cancel mob prevent you from doing the work you’re called to do. Learn how to craft a marketing strategy that can withstand an online firestorm.https://novelmarketingconference.com/ https://novelmarketingconference.com/Support the show

How effective is your author website? In this week’s episode of Novel Marketing, I review the websites of top Christian Historical Romance authors, analyzing what they’re doing well and where they could improve. From SEO wins to missed opportunities, you’ll discover practical ways to enhance your own website. Find out:  What bestselling authors get right about website design  Common mistakes that could cost you readers and sales  Simple fixes to improve SEO, navigation, and revenue Listen in or read the blog version to explore strengths and weaknesses in website design and functionality that you can apply today. This episode is an experiment! Let me know if you’d like to hear more website reviews in future episodes!https://novelmarketingconference.com/ https://novelmarketingconference.com/Support the show

In this enlightening conversation, Alexander Macris, an author and AI marketing expert, discusses how AI can transform the way writers promote their books. He emphasizes that rather than replacing creativity, AI tools can handle marketing tasks, allowing authors to devote more time to writing. Macris shares insights on platforms like Gemini and ChatGPT, highlighting their role in crafting compelling book descriptions and overcoming creative blocks. He also delves into how AI can streamline marketing strategies and analytics, ultimately benefiting readers and authors alike.

Sci-fi is evolving, and so are its audiences. Climate change themes are losing traction, while AI and global politics rise in significance. Writers are urged to adapt their narratives to reflect contemporary issues like economic instability and international conflict. As history shows, financial collapse can redefine societies, shifting the lens through which we view war. Embracing the complexities of today's geopolitical landscape can lead to richer, more engaging stories in the genre.

To indie publish or traditionally publish? That is the question.For years, indie publishing was seen as a fallback for authors who couldn’t land a traditional contract. But times have changed. Many indie authors now outsell and out-earn their traditionally published counterparts.And yet, while many traditionally published authors are switching to indie, it’s far less common to see a successful indie author sign with a major publisher.What would make an indie author turn down a traditional publishing deal?I spoke with Scott LaPierre, an author and conference speaker, to find out.In this week’s episode, we discuss:The biggest myths about traditional publishingHow signing a contract affected book salesTraditional publishing’s take on pricing and marketingThe cost of getting your rights back and why it mattersScott gives a first-hand account of working as a traditional and indie author and where he landed after experiencing both routes.If you’ve ever wondered which path is right for you and your book, listen in or read the blog version of our conversation.https://novelmarketingconference.com/ https://novelmarketingconference.com/Support the show

If you’re thinking about writing a book series, you might want to reconsider, especially if you’re a new author. That’s not to say you should never write a series, but it can be a risky endeavor, and I can prove it with math.In this week’s episode, I break down why writing a series may limit your potential readership. You’ll learn:The four steps every reader must take for your sequel to sell wellThe math behind why sequels struggle to sellThe hidden dangers of "battered reader syndrome" and how it affects new authorsA pre-series strategy for new authorsIf you’ve ever wondered whether you should commit to a series or focus on standalones, listen in or read the blog post for a fresh perspective and a smarter strategy.https://novelmarketingconference.com/ https://novelmarketingconference.com/Support the show

Join Sarah Hickner, an author and podcasting pro, as she shares her expert tips on mastering in-person book sales. Discover common mistakes to avoid at book tables, the power of engaging giveaways, and how to craft the perfect pitch that resonates with readers. She emphasizes the value of visually appealing book covers and unique promotional strategies to draw in potential fans. Whether you're an introvert or a seasoned seller, Sarah's insights will help you boost your book sales while building meaningful connections at events.

Congrats on getting booked for a podcast interview! Whether you’re promoting your book or lead magnet, your audio quality on the podcast can make or break your credibility.In our latest episode, we share pro tips on:How to prepare for your interview (beyond just showing up)Microphone techniques that make you sound like a proThe gear you need (that doesn’t break the bank)What to do after the interview is doneI’ve been podcasting since 2007, I’ve tested a lot of gear, and I’ve made some classic podcast blunders. This episode will help you avoid those mistakes, sound professional, and have fun.Whether you’re planning a podcast tour for your book launch or wanting to purchase your first microphone, listen in or read the blog to learn how to make the most of your podcast guest opportunities.https://novelmarketingconference.com/ https://novelmarketingconference.com/Support the show