BookPromotion.com: talking self publishing, book marketing, and more!

How Much Do Amazon Ads Cost?

Amazon Advertising has become an indispensable tool for authors using Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) to enhance their book’s visibility and boost sales. There’s alot of mystery and anxiety around ads (which is totally understandable since that’s your money we’re talking about). As a result, one of the most common questions authors ask us is: “How much do Amazon Ads cost?” The answer is both simple and complex: Amazon Ads can cost as little or as much as you want them to cost, because you set the budget.

Before diving into ad costs, though, it’s essential to set your book up for success. Proper preparation ensures that your advertising dollars are well spent and that your campaigns have the best chance of yielding returns.

To maximize the effectiveness of your advertising budget, it’s crucial to set up your book properly before diving into advertising. This article will guide you through the essentials of preparing your book for Amazon Ads and provide insights into managing your advertising costs effectively.

Preparing Your Book for Amazon Advertising

Before allocating your budget to Amazon Ads, it’s essential to ensure that your book is primed for success. Proper setup not only enhances the effectiveness of your ads but also ensures that once potential readers click on your ad, they are more likely to purchase your book. Here are the key steps to prepare your book for advertising:

1. Optimize Your Book Listing

Your book’s Amazon listing is the first impression potential readers will have. An optimized listing can significantly increase the conversion rate of your ads.

Compelling Book Cover: Invest in a professionally designed cover that accurately represents your book’s genre and appeals to your target audience. A high-quality cover can grab attention and convey the book’s essence at a glance.
Engaging Book Description: Craft a persuasive book description that highlights the unique aspects of your story or content. Use clear, concise language and incorporate bullet points or bold text to emphasize key points. Ensure that your description addresses the reader’s needs and entices them to learn more.
Targeted Keywords and Categories: Research and select relevant keywords and categories that align with your book’s content. Proper keyword optimization helps Amazon’s algorithm display your book to the right audience, increasing the likelihood of clicks and sales.

2. Set Up an Email List with a Lead Magnet

Building a direct relationship with your readers can lead to sustained success beyond a single book sale. An email list allows you to engage with your audience, promote future releases, and offer exclusive content.

Include Links in Your Book: Incorporate links within your book that direct readers to join your email list. Offer a compelling lead magnet, such as a free short story, bonus chapter, or exclusive content, as an incentive for readers to subscribe.
Create a Landing Page: Develop a dedicated landing page where readers can sign up for your email list. Use platforms like MailerLite, ConvertKit, or Mailchimp to design an attractive and user-friendly page. Ensure the landing page clearly communicates the benefits of subscribing.
Set Up an Autoresponder: Implement an automated email sequence that delivers your lead magnet immediately after a reader subscribes. Follow up with a welcome email and subsequent messages that provide value, such as writing tips, updates on upcoming books, or special offers.

3. Ensure High-Quality Content

Before promoting your book, ensure that it meets high standards of quality. A well-edited and polished book not only garners positive reviews but also fosters trust and credibility among readers.

Professional Editing: Invest in professional editing services to eliminate grammatical errors, plot inconsistencies, or formatting issues. A professionally edited book enhances the reading experience and increases the likelihood of positive reviews.
Positive Reviews: Encourage readers to leave honest reviews. Positive reviews can significantly impact your book’s visibility and attractiveness to potential buyers. Consider offering a free copy to beta readers in exchange for an honest review.

Understanding Amazon Advertising Costs

Amazon Advertising operates on a pay-per-click (PPC) model, meaning you only pay when someone clicks on your ad. This model provides flexibility and control over your advertising budget. Here’s a breakdown of how Amazon Ads costs work and how you can manage them effectively.

1. Budget Flexibility

One of the most significant advantages of Amazon Ads is the flexibility it offers in budgeting.

Daily Budget: When creating an ad campaign, you set a daily budget that dictates how much you’re willing to spend each day. For beginners, it’s advisable to start with a modest budget, such as $5 per day. This allows you to test the waters and gauge the effectiveness of your ads without committing a large sum upfront.
Bid Amount: This is the maximum amount you’re willing to pay for each click on your ad. Amazon uses an auction system to determine which ads appear based on bid amounts and relevance. While higher bids can increase the visibility of your ads, they also result in higher costs per click (CPC). Starting with a competitive yet manageable bid ensures you remain within your budget while testing ad performance.

2. Factors Influencing Ad Costs

Several factors can influence the cost of your Amazon Ads. Understanding these can help you optimize your campaigns for better performance and cost-efficiency.

Keywords: The competitiveness of your chosen keywords plays a significant role in determining CPC. High-demand keywords related to popular genres or broad topics tend to be more expensive. Conversely, niche or long-tail keywords often have lower CPCs and can attract a more targeted audience.
Genre and Competition: The genre of your book can impact ad costs. Genres with a high number of competing books, such as romance or mystery, may have higher advertising costs compared to less saturated genres. Identifying and targeting less competitive niches can help reduce ad expenses. Example: what kind of romance novel is your book? Is it werewolf romance? Polyamorous mermen? Those keywords will be cheaper. The more specific you get, the more money you will save.
Ad Placement: Different types of ads offer varying levels of visibility and cost. Sponsored Products, which appear in search results and on product pages, are generally more cost-effective for books compared to Sponsored Brands or Sponsored Display ads. Choosing the right ad type based on your goals and budget is crucial for cost management.

3. Starting with $5/Day: Testing and Scaling

Beginning your Amazon Ads journey with a $5 daily budget is a strategic approach to understanding ad performance without significant financial risk.

Monitoring Performance: A $5 daily budget allows you to collect data on how your ads perform. Track metrics such as clicks, conversions, and sales to evaluate the effectiveness of your campaigns.
Testing Variations: Use this initial budget to test different keywords, ad copy, and targeting options. Identify which combinations yield the best results and refine your strategies accordingly.
Scaling Up: Once you’ve identified profitable campaigns, gradually increase your daily budget to amplify successful ads. Scaling should be incremental to ensure sustained profitability and to avoid overspending on underperforming ads.

4. Calculating Return on Investment (ROI)

Assessing the ROI of your Amazon Ads is essential to determine their effectiveness and guide future advertising decisions.

ACoS (Advertising Cost of Sales): This metric represents the percentage of your sales revenue spent on ads. A lower ACoS indicates a more profitable campaign. For example, if your book generates $100 in sales from ads costing $20, your ACoS is 20%.
CTR (Click-Through Rate): CTR measures the percentage of people who clicked on your ad. Since your “ad” is essentially your book cover, a higher CTR means your book cover is relevant and appealing to your target audience. A poor CTR (like
Sales and Reviews: Monitor how your ads influence overall book sales and reviews. Increased sales can enhance your book’s organic ranking on Amazon, leading to more visibility and further sales without additional ad spend.

Pro Tips for Managing Your Amazon Ad Budget

Effective budget management is crucial to maximizing the impact of your Amazon Ads. Here are some strategies to help you manage your ad spend efficiently:

1. Avoid Overbidding

While it might be tempting to set high bids to increase ad visibility, overbidding can quickly deplete your budget without guaranteeing better results. Instead, aim for competitive bids that align with your budget and expected ROI.

2. Utilize Negative Keywords

Negative keywords prevent your ads from appearing in irrelevant searches, reducing wasted clicks and improving overall campaign efficiency. Regularly review and update your negative keyword list to ensure your ads target the most relevant audience.

3. Regularly Monitor and Adjust Campaigns

Consistently track your ad performance metrics and make necessary adjustments. This might include tweaking your ad copy, adjusting bids, or reallocating budget to higher-performing campaigns. Regular monitoring ensures your ads remain effective and cost-efficient.

4. Focus on Long-Term Value

Consider the lifetime value of each reader. Investing in ads that not only drive immediate sales but also encourage readers to join your email list or purchase future books can lead to sustained success and higher overall ROI.

Why Starting Small is a Smart Strategy

Beginning with a modest ad budget, such as $5 per day, offers several advantages:

Risk Mitigation: Starting small minimizes financial risk while you learn the intricacies of Amazon Ads.
Data Collection: A smaller budget allows you to gather valuable data on ad performance, which can inform more effective strategies as you scale.
Confidence Building: Successfully managing and optimizing a small campaign can build your confidence and skills, preparing you for larger advertising endeavors.

Is Amazon Advertising Worth It?

For KDP authors, Amazon Advertising can be a game-changer, offering a direct pathway to increased visibility and sales. However, its success hinges on strategic planning, continuous optimization, and a willingness to invest time and resources into refining your campaigns.

Benefits of Amazon Advertising:

Targeted Exposure: Reach readers actively searching for books in your genre or topic.
Scalability: Start with a small budget and scale up as you identify profitable strategies.
Measurable Results: Track performance metrics to assess the effectiveness of your ads and make data-driven decisions.

Potential Challenges:

Competition: High competition in popular genres can drive up ad costs.
Learning Curve: Navigating Amazon’s advertising platform and understanding metrics requires time and effort.
Initial Costs: Even modest daily budgets can accumulate over time, necessitating careful budget management.

Despite these challenges, the potential rewards of increased sales, enhanced visibility, and a growing reader base make Amazon Advertising a worthwhile investment for many authors.

Conclusion

Understanding the cost dynamics of Amazon Ads is crucial for KDP authors aiming to maximize their book’s potential. By properly setting up your book with an optimized listing, an effective email list, and high-quality content, you lay a strong foundation for successful advertising campaigns. Starting with a manageable budget, such as $5 per day, allows you to test and refine your strategies without significant financial risk. As you gather data and identify what works best for your book, you can confidently scale your advertising efforts to achieve greater visibility and increased sales.

Remember, Amazon Ads are as flexible as your budget allows. With the right preparation and strategic approach, you can harness the power of Amazon Advertising to propel your book to new heights. Start small, monitor diligently, and watch your advertising efforts translate into tangible results.

Book Marketing

How Much Can A+ Content Help Your KDP Book Sales? WAY More Than You Think

No Comments

If you’re a self-published author on Amazon, you’ve probably heard about A+ Content, but maybe you’ve overlooked it. After all, isn’t your book cover, description, and reviews enough? Surprisingly, no – not anymore.

A+ Content can transform your book listing from basic to professional, helping you stand out in a crowded marketplace. The best part? It’s not just about looking good – A+ Content can significantly increase your book sales by creating a deeper connection with potential readers.

Let’s explore exactly how A+ Content works, why it’s so powerful, and how you can use it to give your book sales the boost they deserve.

What Is A+ Content?

A+ Content is a feature offered by Amazon through Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). It allows you to add enhanced visuals and text modules to your book’s product page. This includes:

Custom graphics and banners
Author bios with images
Comparison charts
Additional storytelling or book highlights

Essentially, A+ Content helps you go beyond the standard book description to showcase your book’s value and engage readers visually.

You’ve probably seen A+ Content on product listings before – those clean, polished sections with beautiful images, quotes, and detailed descriptions. For authors, it’s an opportunity to market your book like a professional brand.

If you’ve never seen it, check out the listing for this lovely book about backyard chickens:

Here’s the A + Content for this book:

This is fantastic and has without a doubt made this book into the bestseller it is today.

How Does A+ Content Boost Book Sales?

1. It Makes Your Book Stand Out

On Amazon, you’re competing against thousands of other books in your genre. A+ Content gives your listing an edge by creating a visual experience that grabs attention.

Imagine you’re a reader comparing two books:

Book A has a plain description and a handful of reviews.
Book B has A+ Content with beautiful graphics, quotes from the story, and a professionally designed author bio.

Which one would you click “Buy Now” on? A+ Content helps your book look polished, credible, and worth every penny.

2. It Provides More Reasons to Buy

The default book description space is limited. A+ Content lets you expand on why readers should choose your book by including:

Key themes or what makes the story unique.
Character highlights to introduce your book’s heroes or villains.
Reader quotes or praise for the book.
Comparisons to similar titles (e.g., “If you loved The Hunger Games, you’ll love [Your Book Title]”).

These additional details address reader hesitation and provide stronger buying triggers that encourage them to hit that purchase button.

3. It Helps You Connect with Readers

A+ Content is your chance to humanize your listing. Readers love knowing more about authors – where your inspiration comes from, why you wrote the book, or what’s coming next.

With a custom author bio section, you can:

Share a professional photo.
Highlight your writing journey.
Mention other books or series readers might enjoy.

This personal touch builds trust and creates a relationship with readers, increasing the chance of repeat sales.

4. It Increases Conversion Rates

Amazon itself reports that A+ Content can increase conversion rates on product pages. This means more of the people who click on your book will end up purchasing it.

The reason is simple: A+ Content helps readers feel confident about their purchase. The visuals, extra details, and professional presentation reassure them that your book is high-quality and worth their time.

What Does Great A+ Content Look Like?

Effective A+ Content isn’t about stuffing your page with flashy graphics. It’s about strategic storytelling and visual appeal. Here are some key elements of great A+ Content:

Compelling Visuals
Use clean, professional images – such as:
- Your book cover in high resolution.
- A banner with a powerful quote.
- Visuals that represent key themes in your book (e.g., fantasy elements, romantic imagery, or action scenes).
Focused Messaging
Highlight 2-3 reasons readers will love your book. For example:
- “A thrilling adventure perfect for fans of X and Y.”
- “Meet [Main Character’s Name] – the hero you’ll root for and remember.”
Easy-to-Read Design
Keep text short and impactful. Break up large blocks of text with bullet points, headers, and visuals. Readers should be able to scan your A+ Content quickly and feel compelled to learn more.
Consistent Branding
Your A+ Content should match the look and feel of your book cover. Use similar fonts, colors, and styles to reinforce your branding and make your book memorable.

How to Add A+ Content to Your Book Page

Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to get started with A+ Content:

Log into KDP and navigate to “Marketing” on your dashboard.
Select A+ Content Manager.
Choose “Create A+ Content” and pick a template for your visuals and text.
Upload your images and customize the text for each module.
Preview your content to ensure it looks great on both desktop and mobile devices.
Submit your A+ Content for Amazon’s approval (it usually takes 24-72 hours).

A+ Content: Worth the Effort? Absolutely.

Many authors skip A+ Content because they assume it’s optional or not worth the effort. That’s a mistake.

Here’s the truth: Books that include A+ Content look more professional and sell better. When readers land on your book page, A+ Content can be the deciding factor that convinces them to buy.

Whether you’re launching a new book or breathing life into an older title, A+ Content is a game-changer. It transforms your Amazon listing into a powerful sales tool that stands out, connects with readers, and converts browsers into buyers.

If you’re serious about boosting your book sales, adding A+ Content should be at the top of your list. It’s free, visually engaging, and proven to increase conversions.

So, why wait? Open up your KDP dashboard, start building your A+ Content, and watch your book listing transform – along with your sales. Here is a whole elaborate step by step guide, in case you are actually going to do this.

Have you tried A+ Content yet? Share your experience in the comments below!

Email Marketing

What Goes in an Email Onboarding Sequence?

No Comments

OK! Now that you have your email list set up and are actually getting people joining your list, let me help you turn your email list subscribers into true fans with some practical tips. When someone first joins your list to get that free book (or whatever fantabulous reader magnet you are offering), don’t just send them the download link and disappear. Think of it like making a new friend – start by introducing yourself! Share a bit about why you write and what makes you tick.

Why Would You Do This?

A good onboarding sequence:

Introduces Your Brand: Helps readers understand who you are, what you write, and what they can expect from your emails.
Builds Trust: Reinforces that signing up for your list was a great decision by offering immediate value.
Encourages Engagement: Guides readers to take specific actions, like downloading a free eBook, following you on social media, or leaving a review.
Drives Sales: Provides opportunities to promote your books or services in a way that feels natural and not overly pushy.

What works really well is a series of welcome emails that gradually build that connection. After they get their free book, maybe tell them about what inspired your stories or share some of your favorite reads. Once they’re getting comfortable, invite them to join your social media circles or reader groups. And don’t forget to ask for their thoughts on the free book – reviews help everyone!

Here’s a five-email onboarding sequence you can use as a template. Feel free to rewrite the subject lines to reflect your personality and / or to be more specific to your niche.

Email 1: Welcome & Free Gift

Subject Line: “Welcome! Here’s Your Free Gift”
Content:
- Thank the reader for signing up.
- Provide the download link for your free eBook or resource.
- Briefly introduce yourself (e.g., “I’m [Your Name], and I write [Genre].”).
- End with a friendly invitation to reply (e.g., “I’d love to hear what you think of the book!”).

Email 2: Let’s Get to Know Each Other (Sent 1-2 Days Later)

Subject Line: “A Little About Me”
Content:
- Share your journey as an author.
- Explain what inspired you to write your book(s).
- Ask an engaging question (e.g., “What’s a book that has stayed with you long after reading it?”).

Email 3: Recommended Reads & Resources (Sent 2-3 Days Later)

Subject Line: “Books You’ll Love”
Content:
- Share a curated list of your books or similar reads they might enjoy.
- Include links to purchase or download your other titles.
- Add a personal touch by explaining why you recommend these books.

Email 4: Add Value (Sent 2-3 Days Later)

Subject Line: “Tips for [Your Genre/Topic] Fans”
Content:
- Provide practical tips or insights related to your genre (e.g., “How to Enjoy More Thrilling Mysteries” or “5 Ways to Find Time for Reading”).
- Mention any communities or resources you’ve created, such as a Facebook group or exclusive content.

Email 5: Special Offer (Sent 2-3 Days Later)

Subject Line: “A Special Thank-You for Joining”
Content:
- Offer an exclusive discount or bonus for one of your books or related products.
- Thank them again for being part of your community.
- Politely ask for a review

OK, let’s stop and take a deep breath, because I sense you’re feeling overwhelmed. Let me reassure you that email marketing services like MailerLite and Email Octopus make this kind of thing very easy to set up, and that you’re only going to have to do this once and you’ll get the benefit of this sequence emailing new people FIVE TIMES once they sign up. That’s five emails you don’t have to send! That’s a good thing!

Here’s a little pep talk about mindset to help you psych yourself up to actually put all this in place. I see you, introvert! I know you’d rather be doing almost anything else.

Once They Are Yours……

I don’t know how to tell you this, but some of your new subscribers just came for the free book. They are not going to make it through the onboarding sequence, and that is fine! You only want people on your list who actually want to hear from you, believe me. Once you’ve found your “tried and true” readers, start emailing them on a regular basis by creating and distributing a regular newsletter.

Your regular newsletters are where the real relationship grows. Whether you’re popping into their inbox weekly or monthly, share things that matter to them – maybe a peek at your latest chapter, a short story they won’t find anywhere else, or the real story behind your characters. Make it feel like you’re chatting with a friend, not selling to a customer.

Sure, you’ll want to mention your other books, but keep it casual. “Hey, if you enjoyed [free book], you might get a kick out of [paid book]!” Sometimes throw in a special deal just for your subscribers – they love feeling special.

Get your readers involved in your world. Let them vote on character names, share their fan art, or join your book discussions. The more they feel part of your writing journey, the more invested they become.

Remember that different readers want different things. Some might love getting early access to new books, while others might need a gentle nudge with another freebie to stay engaged. The trick is to notice these differences and adjust accordingly.

When you’ve got a new book coming out, your email list is your secret weapon. Share your writing ups and downs, offer some advance copies, maybe even plan a virtual launch party just for them.

And hey, it’s not all about books – signed copies, cool bookmarks, or exclusive content memberships can add extra value. The key is staying genuine and consistent. Your readers signed up because they like your writing, but they’ll stick around because they connect with you as a person.

Keep this relationship genuine, add real value, and your subscribers will naturally become your biggest supporters and book buyers. Hang in there! This stuff gets easier the more you do it, I promise!

Resources/ references: as always, I will encourage you to read these two amazing books by Tammi Labreque:

Tammi possesses the unique ability to make these concepts seem accessible and even doable! These are on my “must have” list for authors!

Book Marketing

Getting Your Head in the Author Marketing Game

No Comments

Hey there, fellow authors! I know a lot of you (especially my introverted friends) might cringe when you hear the word “marketing.” Maybe it feels too pushy or sales-y, or maybe you’re thinking “I’m a creative person, not a marketer!” But here’s the thing – marketing isn’t about being that stereotypical pushy salesperson. It’s really just about connecting with readers who’d love to hear what you have to say.

Let’s Talk About Why Marketing Matters

I get it – you’d rather be writing your next book than posting on social media. But here’s the reality: your amazing book is competing for attention with, well, everything else in our digital world. Without getting the word out there, even the most brilliant stories can get lost in the shuffle. Plus, when you market well, you’re not just selling one book – you’re building a community of readers who’ll be excited about everything you write.

Changing How We Think About Marketing

Instead of thinking “ugh, marketing,” try thinking “I’m sharing my passion with people who might love it too!” It’s like when you recommend a great book to a friend – you’re not selling them something, you’re sharing something awesome. Marketing is just that, but on a bigger scale. Also, you have to work on yourself until you realize that a) you want to write for your job, and jobs earn money, and b) money comes from businesses. Your books are a business, and you have to set them up accordingly. If you don’t want (or need) the money, don’t worry about this, but if you do, get your head in the game!!

The Two Big Players: Email Lists and Social Media

Your Email List: Your New Best Friend
Think of your email list as your direct line to readers who actually want to hear from you. Unlike social media, where your posts might get lost in the algorithm shuffle, emails land right in your readers’ inboxes. Alot of the work of the first initial contact will be handled by your onboarding sequence, so you don’t have to overcome that mental hurdle. That’s good, right?

Quick tip: When you’re writing emails, just imagine you’re writing to a friend who loves your work.

Social Media: Keep It Simple and Real

You don’t need to be on every platform – seriously! Pick one or two that feel right for you. If making TikTok videos makes you want to hide under your desk, don’t do it! Maybe you’re more comfortable sharing book quotes on Instagram or chatting about your genre on Twitter. Whatever works for YOU. I talk more about social media strategy right here.

Getting Over the “Salesy” Fear

Nobody wants to feel like that person at a party who won’t stop talking about their amazing business opportunity. You’re not going to be that person, I promise.

Here’s what you are going to do:

Share stuff that helps or entertains people
Be yourself (your readers want to know the real you!)
Be generous with free goodies now and then

Ready to Start? Here’s What to Do First

Set up that email list – try something easy like MailerLite
Pick ONE social media platform where your readers hang out
Think about what your readers might find interesting or helpful
Learn as you go – nobody’s perfect at marketing right away!

Remember: Marketing isn’t separate from your creative work – it’s just another way to share your stories with people who’ll love them. Start small, be yourself, and focus on connecting with readers who get excited about the same things you do. You don’t have to do it all at once, but you do have to start!

Take one tiny step today. Maybe just set up that email list or make your first social post. Every little bit helps, and before you know it, you’ll have a bunch of awesome readers excited to join you on your writing journey!

How’s that? Much more like having a friendly chat over coffee, right? Want to try any of these ideas? I’d love to hear which one feels most doable to you!

Self-Publishing

Writers Conferences for Self-Published Authors

No Comments

Attending a writers’ conference can be a game-changer for self-published authors, offering invaluable opportunities to learn, connect, and grow. These events provide a unique space where writers at all stages of their careers can come together, gain insights, and develop new skills. For self-published authors, in particular, conferences can help fill gaps in knowledge about publishing, marketing, and building a readership.

One of the biggest draws of a writers’ conference is the chance to learn from experts. Whether you’re looking for guidance on self-publishing platforms, launching your book, or managing Amazon ads, conferences often feature workshops tailored to these topics. At the same time, sessions on writing craft and editing can help you elevate the quality of your work, ensuring it stands out in the crowded marketplace.

Networking is another major reason to attend. Conferences connect you with editors, designers, marketers, and other professionals who can help you produce a polished, marketable book. But it’s not just about professional connections—you’ll also meet other authors who share your journey. These relationships can lead to collaborations, resource sharing, and ongoing support.

Staying updated on industry trends is critical in the ever-changing self-publishing world. Conferences are a great place to learn about new tools, technologies, and strategies. You might discover innovative ways to engage with readers, improve your book’s discoverability, or boost sales. Plus, hearing from successful indie authors can be incredibly motivating. Their stories often blend inspiration with practical advice, showing that your self-publishing dreams are within reach.

Preparation is key to making the most of a writers’ conference. Before you go, it’s a good idea to set clear goals. Are you looking to refine your marketing skills, network with industry professionals, or learn about the latest publishing trends? Knowing what you want will help you focus your time and energy. Researching the conference agenda is also important. Look for sessions and workshops that align with your goals, and identify key speakers or events you don’t want to miss.

Don’t forget to bring materials that introduce you and your work. Business cards, author one-sheets, and a short, compelling pitch about your book can make you memorable when networking. Be ready to take notes, ask questions, and engage actively during sessions. After the conference, following up with new contacts is essential for building lasting relationships.

Attending a writers’ conference isn’t just about gaining knowledge—it’s about investing in yourself and your future as an author. The right conference can energize you, expand your professional network, and give you the tools you need to take your self-publishing journey to the next level. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your existing platform, there’s a conference out there to help you achieve your goals. Ready to dive in? Let’s find the perfect event for you!

Here is an ongoing list of Writers’ Conferences you might want to check out!

20Books Vegas (Las Vegas, NV)
A conference specifically designed for indie authors, focusing on self-publishing strategies, marketing, and author business development.
Learn more
Indie Author Conference (Online)
A fully virtual conference offering workshops on marketing, book design, and leveraging social media to build an audience.
Learn more
Writer’s Digest Annual Conference (New York, NY)
Covers a range of topics, including self-publishing, traditional publishing, and the craft of writing.
Learn more
Smarter Artist Summit
Aimed at indie authors, this event emphasizes creating sustainable careers through effective writing, publishing, and marketing.
Learn more
Self-Publishing Advice Conference (Online)
Hosted by the Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi), this free online conference offers expert advice on everything from book production to rights management.
Learn more
PubWest Conference
While focused on the publishing industry as a whole, this conference includes sessions valuable for self-published authors, such as design, marketing, and digital trends.
Learn more
BookBaby Independent Authors Conference (Online)
A practical event for self-published authors looking to learn about self-publishing platforms, marketing, and distribution.
Learn more
Writer’s Workshop at the San Miguel Writers’ Conference (Mexico)
A mix of workshops and networking opportunities, including sessions tailored to indie authors.
Learn more
IBPA Publishing University (Online & In-Person)
A conference focused on small publishers and indie authors, covering topics like production, marketing, and distribution.
Learn more
Unbound Writers Conference (Online)
An event aimed at empowering writers to embrace their unique voices and succeed in self-publishing.
Learn more
Author Advantage Live
Hosted by Self Publishing School, this annual event focuses on publishing, marketing, and business growth for authors. It appeals to both fiction and nonfiction writers, providing strategies to succeed in self-publishing.
Learn more
Inkers Con
A three-day conference offering workshops on writing craft and business, suitable for both indie and traditionally published authors. It provides both in-person and online access, making it accessible to a wide audience.
Learn more
Atlanta Self-Publishing Conference (ASPC)
Dedicated to serving self-published authors and the independent publishing market, ASPC offers sessions to help launch and grow your author career.
Learn more
San Francisco Writers Conference
A celebration of craft, commerce, and community, this conference connects writers with industry experts, including those in self-publishing. It offers a range of workshops and networking opportunities.
Learn more
Pikes Peak Writers Conference
This conference brings the New York publishing world to Colorado Springs, offering workshops, pitch sessions, and networking opportunities for writers of all levels.
Learn more

Book Marketing

What Happened to Kindle MatchBook? Can You Still Give Away eBooks for Free?

No Comments

Amazon discontinued the Kindle MatchBook program on October 31, 2019. In case you care, this program launched in 2013 and allowed customers who purchased a print book to obtain the Kindle eBook version at a reduced price or even for free. However, due to limited participation from major publishers and low customer awareness, Amazon decided to retire the program.

My theory on the “low customer awareness” portion of this is that Amazon realized there was absolutely no benefit (to them) to make it easy for their customers to get free books, so they conveniently did not promote it. That’s fine, more opportunity for you!

As of now, there is no direct replacement for Kindle MatchBook. Customers interested in both print and digital versions of a book typically need to purchase each format separately. Some publishers may offer bundled deals independently, but these are not standardized across the platform.

I think what you should do with this is: offer the eBook edition of your print book for free by putting a link in your print book’s interior that leads to a free download. By offering your eBook as a free bonus (or, reader magnet!) to readers who purchase your print book, you can create exceptional value for your audience while building a stronger connection with your readers.

Here’s how you can easily implement this strategy:

Set Up a Landing Page for the Giveaway

Your first step is to create a streamlined way for readers to access your free eBook. Start by establishing a dedicated landing page using BookFunnel or your author website. Choose an easy-to-type URL like “[YourWebsite].com/ebook” – remember, readers will be typing this from your printed book. Include an email sign-up form to deliver the eBook (and grow your email list).

Put a Link in Your Print Book’s Interior

Next you’ll need to crack open your print book’s interior and put in the link. Add an engaging message in both the front matter to capture early interest and the back matter to catch readers after they’ve finished your book. Try something like:

“Love this story? Get the eBook version free at [YourWebsite].com/ebook”

In case I just blew your mind with publishing industry jargon, the “front matter” is the stuff in the front of your book (before the book actually starts) and the “back matter” is the stuff at the end after the book is finished. I include this link in both places, and I add in a request for a review at the end as well. I am more shameless about the back matter because I figure if a reader makes it all the way to the end, they must like something about me/ my writing.

Create a Seamless Download Experience

Make downloading your eBook effortless and enjoyable. Provide multiple format options (EPUB, MOBI, and PDF) to accommodate different devices (this is what BookFunnel does). Ensure your landing page looks professional and works flawlessly on mobile devices, as many readers will access it from their phones. Maintain consistent branding between your book and landing page to create a cohesive experience.

Then What?

Oh, I’m so glad you asked me that. Once a person signs up for your email list, please send them an onboarding sequence to get them used to hearing from you (and offer them other things you have for sale). I promise, this is not as cheesy and sales-y as it sounds. An onboarding sequence is a fantastic way for authors to make a strong first impression and build trust with new subscribers. When someone joins your list, they’re most engaged and eager to learn more about you, and a structured sequence helps you capitalize on that momentum. It allows you to introduce yourself, share your story, and set expectations for what subscribers will receive from you in the future. By delivering the promised freebie right away, you establish trust and show that you value their time and interest. Through consistent, value-driven emails, you can foster a deeper connection, encouraging readers to take immediate actions like downloading your book, leaving a review, or following you on social media.

More information about onboarding sequences here, or in Tammi Labreque’s wonderful “Newsletter Ninja” book.

This Seems Hard. Why Would You Do It?

Look I get it. Alot of the things I talk about are tech-heavy and I know authors don’t want to do them. Does it help if I tell you that this kind of thing is only difficult the first time you do it, and that every single thing you learn in the world of indie publishing is going to help build your career (and put dollars in your pocket)?

Does it help if I tell you that probably 90% of the authors who read this article will NOT do this, which means you will have an advantage over them?

No? OK well, it was worth a shot. I’m just throwing it out there!!

Advertising Books on Amazon

KDP Advertising: the Category Ad

No Comments

This is part 2 of the “Starting Amazon KDP Advertising” series, where I start ads for my book “Funny You Should Ask: How to Market a Book.” I did this because I was starting the ads anyway and I thought it might be fun for you to see a real-life example of how paid advertising works. This is my personal advertising strategy, and you can adapt it to your own budget and the amount of research (keywords, categories, competitors) you have done.

Today we’re going to start a category ad. I’m not crazy about this type of ad because I have never had great success with them and I don’t actually think people find books by searching categories, but I will run one of these ads as part of a “comprehensive” ad strategy when I launch a book. To get to the category ad section, you just need to follow the exact same path I used in this post to get to the “Manual Targeting” section. If you read that post, you’ll already know that I am extremely “anti-automated targeting,” meaning I think automated targeting is just a way for Amazon to steal your money.

Here’s where we’re starting today: go to Manual Targeting, then choose “Product targeting.” That looks like this:

As it says, the Product targeting section lets you create ads so your book appears in searches related to categories, brands, or other product features. We’re focusing on categories right now and we’ll cover the other stuff in future posts. One thing at a time, people!

Here’s what you see when you choose the “Categories” section:

Just like in the manual keyword strategy, I have switched the bid to “Custom bid,” where I will start it at $.10 per click (that’s TEN CENTS, not ten dollars). Be sure to catch this or Amazon will be more than happy to charge you whatever “suggested bid” they want (you can see what they are thinking under “Sugg. bid”). I can’t imagine why they think a rando category like “Authorship” deserves $1.13 per click, and I am not really in the mood to find out.

Their category targeting for this book was actually pretty right on, and I ended up taking 5 out of the 6 suggestions. I then switched over to the “Search” tab and went looking for some other good categories. I used Publisher Rocket (which I highly recommend for self-published authors) to pick the initial categories for this book, and I added those to the ad buy. Publisher Rocket also has a great “AMS Keywords” tab, and I will get to that when I start my “Product” ad in the next post.

I will caution you, as with all things Amazon, do not just click “Add all.” Amazon has a habit of going super duper random with their suggestions, but putting those suggestions at the very bottom so you don’t see them.

Here’s what I mean by that:

Yes, you’re reading that right. Amazon would love it if I would pay to advertise my book about book marketing in the following categories: “Female Urinals, Detail Sander Paper, and Retail Mannequins.”

I’m not saying unequivocally that there is zero overlap between people who buy retail mannequins and people who self-publish books and need to learn how to market them properly, but I bet they are not thinking about these two things at the same time, so I’m guessing I would not make any sales by using those categories.

Maybe I’m just cynical.

Exactly like the “Manual Keywords” ad, I switched the “Campaign bidding strategy” to the more favorable (for me) choice of “Dynamic Bids, down only.” I then named the ad, set the budget for $5.00/ day, and set the time limit for two weeks. Here are the final settings of my category ad, right before I hit the blue “Launch Campaign” button and wait for the ad to be moderated and approved.

Check back here to see if this category ad made any sales!

Advertising Books on Amazon

KDP Advertising: addressing the “no impressions” problem

No Comments

I’m back again, helping you not get totally fleeced by Amazon when you take out your first sets of ads for your book. This is more fun than just reading a boring tutorial, right? You are watching me potentially lose money in real time! Fun! This is the post where you can follow along

First, let’s check on the last ad. If you’ll recall, we left off with me getting a “review” email from Amazon, indicating that they were thinking about running my ad.

Spoiler alert: they decided to run my ad. A few hours later I got another email saying that my ad was “eligible to be run.”

You’re wondering– what does that mean? Is “eligible” the same thing as “running”?

Yes and no.

“Eligible” means that it CAN be run, and that you can go over to https://advertising.amazon.com, log in to your account, and check up on your ads. You might want to give your ads a couple of days to start up, but be sure to check them every single day so you can turn them off if they blow up in an unfavorable direction.

Here’s what is happening with my ad currently:

That’s a big fat goose egg. Nothing! Nada! I am getting absolutely no love from Amazon for this ad. I know that not because of the $0.00 spent on ads and $0.00 sales made, but because of the 0 impressions number. That means Amazon is not taking my super-cheap 10 cent bid as an opening offer, and that I need to raise it.

Here’s some further insight into why this is happening: Amazon is showing me their “suggested bid” for each word, meaning that is how much they would like to get per click. Then they are showing my ridiculously low bid, which is how much I would like to pay. Apparently there is too much difference between these (and too many people willing to pay higher prices for their clicks), so Amazon is not taking me up on my low offer.

I did not say “people willing to pay the suggested bid” because I actually don’t know that. Amazon is not going to tell me what other people are paying, only what they would like to get. I doubt anyone is actually paying $2.52 per click to advertise on the word “author marketing,” although maybe David Gaughran or Joanna Penn are much richer than I think and are doing that. What do I know?

Whatever the case, that is why my ads show as “delivering” but are not actually getting any impressions. You always want the chance to incrementally raise your bid to make your ads start running, rather than taking the atrocious “default bid” that Amazon will offer you, which if you’ll recall from the last post) was 91 CENTS in this case. I said it in that post and I’ll say it again– 91 cents is too much to pay for a totally untested ad (especially if you are just starting out). So, if you have this problem where you started an ad and it hasn’t gotten aid any impressions, do not worry– just go back in and adjust the bid 5 to 10 cents at a time until you start getting some impressions. Impressions mean the ads are actually running, after which you’ll get some clicks and hopefully some sales.

Here’s how you adjust all the bids in your ad at once, just to save you some time:

Click “Active,” then look for the little box that says “Adjust bid.” Click that, and this will pop up:

Enter the new bid price, then click save. Be sure to include the decimal point (meaning, .20 for twenty cents), because Amazon will have no problem charging you $20 per click if you forget it. I’M SERIOUS.

I reset my ads to $.20/ click and will continue to raise them by 10 cents per day until they start to move (or until I reach my personal budget threshold and turn off this particular ad experiment).

UPDATE: The ads finally started to actually be shown (and by that I mean “get impressions”) when I raised the bid to $.40/ click.

Come to think of it, the total lack of movement on my ads could mean that Amazon is salty at me for telling you how not to give them all of your money, and if that is the case, that’s fine.

Keep coming back to this blog for more of what’s happening with this ad! You know you’re curious!

While we’re waiting for something to happen over there, let’s start running another cool type of ad that you might not know about, which is the “Category Ad.”

Book Marketing

How to Market a Book: a Launch Plan

No Comments

Launching a self-published book requires careful planning and execution to ensure that the book reaches the right audience and generates sales. Here’s an ideal launch plan for a self-published book:

Establish Your Author Platform: You should establish your online platform (long) before launching your book. Create a website about yourself that highlights your expertise and showcases your work (a website is also absolutely necessary in this day and age, just for general reputation management purposes). Use social media platforms to connect with your target audience and build relationships with influencers in your niche. I basically talk all about this in “Funny You Should Ask: How to Market a Book.” Author platform is key! Do not proceed without it!
Start building your email list. Seriously, the list is everything! Start your list right now!
Build an ARC team: Build a team of people who will leave reviews for your book when it first comes out. Encourage them to share your book with their networks and leave reviews on Amazon and Goodreads. This is sometimes known as an ARC team, “ARC” being an “advanced review copy,” which you would send to people in advance.
Choose Your Launch Date Carefully: Choose a launch date that is at least 2-3 months in advance, so you have enough time to plan your marketing and promotional efforts. Consider launching your book during a relevant holiday or event, or tying your launch to a news event or trend.
Get Your Head Around Setting a Budget: Determine how much money you’re willing to invest in your book launch. Plan your budget carefully and prioritize your spending on the most critical aspects of your launch. This is going to come in handy when you go to spend money on paid advertising.
Get Reviews: Reach out to book bloggers and reviewers in your niche and request reviews for your book, or join Pubby to get reviews.
Leverage Social Media: Use social media to promote your book launch. Create engaging content, share teasers, and host giveaways to generate buzz around your book. Use relevant hashtags to reach a wider audience.
Monitor Your Sales: Keep track of your book sales during the launch period and adjust your marketing efforts accordingly. Use analytics tools to track your website traffic, social media engagement, and book sales. We recommend KDPChamp for monitoring book sales on Amazon.

Self-Publishing

How to Sell Books on Amazon

No Comments

This query is a little confusing to me, because like, are you asking how to sell other people’s books on Amazon as a reseller, or are you asking how to self-publish your own books on Amazon? Are you asking about the selling books to Amazon for cash through the (now defunct) textbook buyback program? Amazon actually does not buy back books anymore, but there are workarounds of course!

Whatever you’re looking to do with books, we have covered all the options here. Hopefully one of these concepts will point you in the right direction!

In fact, I now have an entire website dedicated to the self-publishing process! Go on over to SelfPublishingChecklist.com, where we walk you step by step through the entire self-publishing process.

If you’re talking about selling other people’s books (like from a bookstore, yard sale, or thrift store), that is called reselling (or retail arbitrage) and that’s a whole different thing. I think the vast majority of people who are Googling “sell books on Amazon” are talking about their own books (i.e. self-publishing), but I did just want to provide comprehensive information to point you in the right direction, so here’s how you would go about that:

Create an Amazon seller account: To start selling on Amazon, you need to create a seller account. You can either sign up for an individual account or a professional account. An individual account is free, but Amazon charges a fee for each item sold. A professional account costs $39.99 per month but has no per-item fee. Selling books is a great way to get started with reselling (also called “retail arbitrage”).
Find books to sell. For this step, you’ll need to start with your own bookshelves, then hit thrift stores, garage/yard sales, and the clearance section of bookstores. Because of fees, you’re not going to be able to just buy full-price books from bookstores and sell the books on Amazon, so you’ll need to get creative with how and where to get the books that you’re selling.
List books for sale: Once you have created your Amazon seller account, you can start listing your books for sale. You can list your books one at a time or in bulk by using Amazon’s seller tools.
Set the price: When you list your book, you need to set a price. You can either set a fixed price or use Amazon’s pricing tools to set a competitive price based on the condition and demand for the book. Be sure to look at all of the fees involved and take into consideration the cost of postage or of shipping the books to Amazon when you set your price. Setting the price too low is the # 1 cause of losing money
Fulfillment: You can either fulfill the orders yourself (this is called “merchant fulfillment) or use Amazon’s fulfillment service called Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA). If you choose FBA, you send the books in to the Amazon fulfillment center, then Amazon handles the shipping, customer service, and returns for your orders.
Receive payment: Once you have sold a book, Amazon will deposit the payment into your seller account. Amazon pays every two weeks for sales made during that period.
Get customer feedback: Encourage customers to leave feedback on your seller account. Positive feedback can help increase sales and improve your seller reputation.

It’s also important to keep your inventory up-to-date and be responsive to customer inquiries and concerns. By following these steps and providing excellent customer service, you can successfully sell books on Amazon.

Oh, and just in case you’re curious, no– Amazon does not have a “buy back your books” program anymore. If you want to sell your textbooks on Amazon at this point, you would need to just do that on the seller marketplace, which I’ve outlined above.

Barnes & Noble DOES have a textbook buyback program, which you can find right here!