Your book is written. But now you have a new challenge ahead of you – getting it published. Some writers can pay up to $20,000 publishing and marketing their books. Not everyone has this kind of money, which is where you need to get creative (something that we writers are good at).
Here are a few methods of getting your book published cheaply to spark some ideas, as well as how to market your book.
Publishing a Book on a Budget
Inexpensive printing methods
Having a publisher behind you can improve your reputation, but it isn’t the be all and end all. You can now skip the traditional process of publishing and use a printing company to print your own books.
Shop for online book printing quotes to find the best cost and quality for you. Such companies can provide professional binding and paper and make your book look as professional as one from a traditional publishing company.
Promote on social media
Social media has made it easy to connect with people across the world. Encourage people to read your book by setting up a Facebook page and Twitter account and connecting with eager readers.
People love freebies. You may want to earn money from your book but throwing a few free copies out there could get it into circulation and encourage conversation. Join book swap groups and hold competitions offering your book as the free prize. Use the #freebooks hashtag on Twitter to attract readers on a budget looking for free book giveaways.
Give people an online taster
Create a website and allow people to read the first chapter of your book or a part of it. This will entice people to buy it in full. Allow distribution through your website or link to an account on Ebay or Amazon.
Sell locally
Many local book shops like to support local writing talent. Visit local stores and ask whether they’d be willing to buy a few copies. You can also donate a book to your local library, as well as look out for local literary events such as book fairs and arts festivals. Gain local buzz. This could snowball into something bigger.
Take advantage of free reviews
Book review bloggers one are of the best kept secrets. Getting your blog reviewed is a great way of gaining initial coverage, which could eventually spark the interest of bigger publications.
Going through a PR company can be expensive, although they will often know all the best places to contact. This site can show you how to take a DIY approach to PR. Keep promoting your book to new blogs to get it more exposure.
What About You?
What are some ways you’ve published or promoted a book on a budget?
Image credits: pixabay, wikimedia
This is pretty helpful Ms Marcie, I’ve always wanted to self-publish a book but never thought of the website teaser part. No wonder writers can self-publish their book with ease, I’ve always known it’s possible 😀
Great read, subscribed!
Thanks for reading, Riaz. Hope the info helps you to achieve your goals.