In my innocence I actually booked a (self-financed, despite having a publisher) book tour for my first book in 2014.

As an unknown, I wasn’t exactly magnetic. Like Randi, I sold way more books when I spoke. But nowhere near enough to finance the travel.

At one signing in a bookstore in Seattle, I was standing near the entrance with my books when a woman approached me and said she was looking for a book about self-acceptance. Perfect! My book was the answer to her prayers!

But before I could say that, she added, “… It’s by someone called Brene Brown. Can you tell me where I can find that?”

For my next book, I’ll be flying to my home town for a VACATION during the launch, and I’ll do some speaking between visits with friends and family. That’s my new version of a book tour.

Thanks, Ava.

Staying local initially, even with publicity efforts, gives you a chance to figure out what works and resonates before you expand geographically.

Sandy

As for book-signings, again I think local or close-to is the solution. I’m able to appear monthly at a bookstore where I live, and though sales aren’t over the moon, I get email addresses and sincere connections. And it’s near home!

Write on, comrades.

I hope they do, too, Katrina! I would love to connect in person!

Sandy

Thank you Sandra. I take your words as a high compliment. I do hope our paths cross in person some day. I would love to meet you!

This is downright profound, Katrina. I think online marketing is highly over-rated, in part because most don’t know how to do it properly. Let’s take Twitter: It’s not built to sell. It’s about building relationships and making connections, which is what you’re obviously good at in person. Grassroots support can be huge, for sure. Thanks for taking the time to comment and share your perspective. It’s helpful!

Sandy

I am a library geek so favor libraries, even if unpaid, and have worked on my public speaking skills through Toastmasters. I measure success in more than sales, e.g. I add names to my email list, it spreads grass-roots awareness when the library publicizes the event, and usually the library adds at least one book to their collection. I have been featured in media because of talks. My last library talk drew 75 people. However, I focus on my own metro area. Or, if I am visiting family out-of-town, I do local outreach in that area.

With that said, someone who is a whiz at marketing and can promote online will reach thousands more with potential to go viral. But I wouldn’t discount the power of grass-roots support in your own metro area as a companion strategy.

I’m glad to hear you’ve found something that works, Gloria.

Sandy