How to Use SlideShows on TikTok to Promote Self-Published Books
TikTok (especially BookTok!) has become a powerful platform for indie authors looking to expand their reach and increase book sales. With the right strategies, you can leverage the platform’s unique features to build an engaged audience and boost your income. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating effective TikTok content and maximizing your results.
Why TikTok Works for Indie Authors
TikTok’s short-form video format is ideal for storytelling, sharing tips, and showcasing your books. Many authors have succeeded on the platform by creating engaging content that resonates with their target audience. While there may be an initial learning curve, TikTok’s potential to go viral can lead to significant exposure and earnings.
Step 1: Ensure Your Platform is Set Up Properly
Nope, I’m never going to stop harping on this! Before diving into TikTok content creation, make sure your platform is optimized to capture and engage potential readers.
This includes:
- Linking to a Reader Magnet Inside Your Book: Include a link to a free bonus (e.g., a short story or chapter) that encourages readers to sign up for your email list.
- Setting Up an Email Signup Form: Ensure your website prominently features a signup form to capture visitor information.
- Creating a Strong Onboarding Sequence: Use automated email sequences to welcome new subscribers and guide them toward your other books or content.
- Optimizing Your Website and Social Media: Ensure your website and social media profiles clearly encourage email signups with CTAs (calls to action) and compelling incentives.
Always focus on building your email list—it’s one of the most valuable tools for indie authors to connect directly with readers. Remember, you do not own Tiktok or your followers on that platform! TikTok (or any social media) can go away at any time, so make sure you’re just using them as a means to an end and not as your primary sales driver! I’m serious!
Step 2: Create Slide-Based Videos
Slideshow videos have proven to perform well on TikTok, especially for educational or storytelling content. Follow these tips to create effective slideshows:
- Make Videos 20-25 Slides Long: Longer slideshows tend to perform better, as they hold viewers’ attention for more time.
- Use a Consistent Background: Choose one background for all slides to ensure a cohesive and professional look. You can create slides directly on TikTok, make slides on Canva and upload them, or use a service like AuthorScale. Totally up to you and your budget!
- Keep Slides Simple: Focus on delivering clear and concise information on each slide.
Step 3: Write Compelling Hooks
The first few seconds of your video are crucial for capturing attention. Use tools like AuthorScale to generate engaging hooks that draw viewers in immediately. A strong hook can make the difference between a viewer scrolling past or staying to watch your content.
Step 4: Post Consistently
Consistency is key on TikTok. Posting multiple times a day increases the likelihood of reaching different audience segments. A recommended schedule includes:
- 2 Posts During the Day
- 2 Posts at Night
This approach ensures your content reaches viewers across various time zones and activity levels.
Step 5: Use TikTok’s Built-In Features
TikTok’s algorithm favors videos that use trending audio and features. When uploading your slideshows, consider:
- Posting directly through apps like AuthorScale to streamline the process.
- Allowing TikTok to select the music for your videos to boost engagement.
Step 6: Drive Traffic to External Platforms
If you’re unable to sell directly on TikTok, use the platform to drive traffic to external sites like Amazon or your author website. Include clear calls-to-action in your bio and videos to guide viewers to your books.
Key Takeaways
- Slideshow videos are an effective format for creating engaging TikTok content. Their visual appeal and simplicity make them easy for audiences to consume.
- Posting consistently increases your visibility and engagement.
- Strong hooks and trending audio can significantly boost your video’s performance.
- TikTok is a powerful traffic driver for authors who strategically link their content to external platforms.
By following these strategies, indie authors can harness TikTok’s potential to grow their audience and achieve their publishing goals.