By CYNTHIA FRAZIER
With successful self publishing on the rise, there has never been a better time to enter the Christian book market than it is right now. From personal stories and testimonies, to self help and personal development, to spiritual growth and motivation, there is room at the table for all authors. Yet many Christian authors fail to capitalize on the countless opportunities available. All too often, they are blind to revenue streams or PR possibilities staring them right in the face. And while the process can be overwhelming, you don't have to restrict your own book sales if you avoid the following faux pas. Put this information to good use and you will see tremendous results for years to come.
1. By not having a strategic plan
Having a plan is something that may seem basic, yet many Christian authors start writing their book with no forethought as to what happens after the book is written and published. Questions like "who is your target market for the book?" should be contemplated ahead of time. Pam Perry, Chief visionary of
www.MinistryMarketingSolutions.com and Co-author of the soon to be released book Synergy Energy-How to Use the Power of Partnerships to Market Your Book, says this is the number one mistake writers make. They think that everyone will be interested in their story. Other considerations that need to be addressed before your book is finished include, how you will position yourself as an expert, how you will handle a crisis, and how you will market your book.
2.. By not having a marketing mindset
Many Christian authors focus solely on the content of their book and neglect to realize that they must develop an audience of readers. Like any entrepreneur or business owner, Christian authors will wear many hats. One of the most important hats to wear is that of getting the message out after it has been written. Marketing is the most critical aspect of being an author because it is marketing that drives book sales. Fortunately, there are many low cost and affordable ways to market your book if you know where to look.
3. By not hiring experts
Many Christian authors put limits on their potential and on their book sales by attempting to do everything themselves. With all of the tasks that come into play, having a successful book in the marketplace requires expertise in topics that have nothing to do with writing a book. Areas such as public relations, marketing, graphic design, media kit design, website design and even writing a press release are all critical to presenting your work as professional. If you don't want to look like an amateur, protect your professional image by putting skilled vendors on your team. It may be a sacrifice in the beginning, but you will be very glad you made the investment in the long run.
4. By not using the Internet to its fullest
We all know that the Internet can be a challenge to figure out. Even so, there are far too many benefits to using the Internet to let the challenges stop you. Using the Internet to save valuable time and money is critical to bringing a book to market. Conducting research, public relations, and selling your book are three crucial functions that make the Internet a valuable tool. Learn what you don't know and utilize the Internet to reach your goals as an author.
5. By not teaming
Pam Perry says partnering is a tool that can be used as leverage to save time and money. I couldn't agree more. Pam says, "When you hit a brick wall, look for a partner or someone you can joint venture with." Forming a joint venture partnership is a powerful way to reduce your workload and increase results. The key to joint venture partnerships however, is give and receive. It is important to know what you have to give and what it is you want to receive. Once you are clear on those two things, it will not be difficult to find people who have what you need to make your book a success.
Do you have a ministry or a Christian book you would like to talk about in your own Internet Radio Show? Think having your own Internet Radio Show is difficult and expensive? Well I've got news for you. Having your own Internet Radio Show is affordable and fun. Join me, Cynthia Renee Frazier, as I teach you seven simple steps to get your show off the ground.
Go to
www.EnergyTourCafe.com/7steps.pdf for complete details. But hurry! Seating is limited and registration is filling up fast.
For more free PR tips and advice, visit my blog at
www.MinistryMarketingSolutions.blogspot.com The PR BootCamp Handbook is available!
If you would like a copy FREE, email me at
pamperry@ministrymarketingsolutions.com
Posted By: The SISTAHS Ministry
Thursday, December 4th 2008 at 1:37PM
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