Guerrilla Marketing for Authors
How I used the promotional cards from my publisher
One of the many perks of a traditional book deal (in addition to your advance, of course!) is working with a team. Watching my book transition from an ethereal concept to a book proposal to a collaborative project was truly indescribable.
One of those important collaborators is a team of graphic designers. I couldn’t be happier with Paige Graff’s work on my book cover and Kim Ismael’s work on the marketing cards (below). She truly understood my voice as a writer and the book’s thesis, bringing both to life visually.
About the Cards
My publisher sent me these gorgeous 4x6 cards for our preorder campaign. I distributed them at speaking engagements, networking events, and random spots all over the Northeast. The QR code on the back of the cards prompts people to… you guessed it… preorder my book! Once my book was officially out in the world, I asked my publisher if they could make a quick copy edit changing all preorder language to available now, and then I ordered more.
Even though my book has been out for a year, I still use these cards at book signings and drink tastings. The liquid courage angle also provides some fun wordplay for my NA drink.
Here’s a quick glimpse at how I use my book promo cards while being my own publicist.
Guerilla Marketing 101: Read your own book on public transportation, especially if the ad behinds you is connected to your book’s theme.
Then, add your card to the advertisement. Match.com ad + Humpy promo on the subway… I had to!
Friends help spread the love, too! Thanks
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Hubby and I were stuck in the Pittsburgh airport for SIX HOURS so we left these cards all over Terminal B.
Some non-alc bottle shops sell my book and my drink! So they use the liquid courage cards to draw people into the display.
Minus Moonshine has a cute #QuitLit table and the liquid courage cards.
Book signings! I use the liquid courage cards as bookmarks. Sure, the person is already buying my book, but the cards still direct people to my newsletter and social media feeds while reminding them of my book’s thesis: letting go of liquid courage.
I wrote a book about sober sex called Dry Humping—of course I love wordplay! Liquid courage takes on a new meaning when Hubby and I do tastings for our non-alc drink, (parentheses).
How have you used promo cards/business cards to promote your work?
Upcoming Classes
🗞️Be Your Own Publicist October 9th. Sign up here.
📚Book Proposal Boot Camp Oct 22-Nov 19th. Sign up here.
XO,
Tawny
I always learn so much from you
This is SO good and so so so smart!! *noted*