I thought I'd ask this question here since this group seems to be a nice blending of readers and authors.

Are book signings important?

That's what I'd like to know!

I was really hoping this thread would take off. I am desperate for info on this subject. I suffer from severe shyness issues and working up the nerve to do a signing is quite an ordeal. If it is not something that

1) brings a substantial return to the author
OR
2) brings substantial joy to the reader

then I can't see the benefit to either party. It needs to do one of these two things to be of use, in my opinion. I realize exposure is important. But is this really the only benefit of a signing?

So, readers, do you like book signings?

And, authors, do you enjoy them?

OK ladies, here's my two bits for what it's worth! As a READER, I guess it would be fun to meet my favorite authors in person but see little opportunity for much other than a quick smile and a "hello" at a book signing, so I don't bother.
Actually, I feel I have benefited most from the great discussions you participate in here on GR more than I ever would waiting in line at a book signing. Your personalities come through loud and clear!
As for exposure, I really don't pay attention to who is coming to my local book store unless it is a really big name and they are already 'exposed'! It has been through these threads that I have become acquainted with and bought your books! I doubt I would even have known about them any other way.

So... in a nutshell, Jaimey it was your sweet and generous personality coming through on GR that prompted me to buy your books, not a table propped up at Barnes and Noble!

Thank you, Tammy! That was exactly the type of answer I was looking for. An honest opinion that I can mull over. (And thank you for buying my books. I am sincerely grateful.) :o)

Anyone else want to weigh in here?

I appreciate Tammy's input. That helps me so much. :)

Personally, I have found book signings to be incredibly beneficial. The impact upon my sales in the UK has been huge. Obviously, it hasn't done a thing for my US sales, because I haven't done any signings there.

People have been friendly, the bookstore staff have been great (in both Waterstone's and Borders), and it's been fun. It's tiring... hard work... but well worth the effort.

Thanx, Gina! I wondered how long it would be before you shared your experiences with us. I have seen the pics on facebook and heard all the lovely tales of your book signing adventures. If they could all be like that for everyone, I wouldn't worry so much about it.

Now, where's Joyce with her two cents on this issue...? ;o)

I have never done a solo book signing because so many author friends warned me not to-! It's best if you have two or three (or four!) authors signing together. A lone author sitting at a table looking nervous and/or lonely is not going to sell any books. Three authors sitting together at a nicely-outfitted table with a candy dish, stacks of (different) books, promotional materials, balloons, whatever catches the eye -- and the 3 authors smiling and chatting together while making eye contact with anyone coming through the door -- that's optimum.

http://www.wickedcoolbooks.wordpress.com

Now that sounds like fun! I could get on board with a book signing like that. :o)

Thanx, Diane!

That sounds like a great idea!

If I had the opportunity to meet one of my favorite authors at a book signing I would love it!! I don't think it ever hurts to put yourself out there to your readers. I know I enjoy reading a book by an author even more when I feel like I know them more on a personal level. It makes them seem more real, I guess.

Okay, chiming in late here. I haven't had much experience with book signings, but my publisher is currently trying to get me set up to do some signings in some Costco stores in Arizona! It's been a slow process putting it together apparently and I wasn't sure it was going to go through, but my publisher emailed me this past week saying they were hoping to "finalize the deal". I haven't heard back whether they actually "finalized" or not, though, so for all I know it might still fall through. On the other hand, I was told that I might only get a week's notice once they get something set up, so I'm still kind of on pins and needles. Bottom line, IF I end up doing the Costco book signings, I'll be sure to let you all know how it goes! (Or doesn't go, whichever the case may be.)

I very rarely sit when I'm doing a signing. When people make eye contact, I hand them a card or book mark and pitch a one-liner about the book. I tell them if they are interested in hearing more to stop back by the table and I'll tell them about it. I also roam a little and give bookmarks to browsing customers, again pitching that one-liner. I have more success that way.

I like that tip! Thanks for sharing it, Jewel. (In case I need it for Costco. :-) )

I have mixed feelings about book signings. I have done several and the best one was my book launch where hoards of relatives (I'm of Italian origin)came to support me. The others were a lot of work, in the sense that you must constantly smile, speak about your book, make eye contact, approach people (as Jewel did). No room for shyness! Essentially you must sell your book to those who take the time to stop by your table. What they want to know is: Why should I buy your book? All my book signings have been solo and I like the idea of partnering up with another author. It would be so much easier and less lonely!!! I have also done book signings to raise funds for causes and these were fun. The best part about book signings are the one or two people who buy your book with such enthusiasm and tell their friends about it. They are the true book lovers who appreciate writers. I will never forget the 9 year-old boy who bought my book for his nanny and lovingly put it in his knapsack. I saw him proudly showing his friends later of the gift he had purchased. It made my evening!

Awww, that is sooo sweet Laura!!

Laura wrote: "The others were a lot of work, in the sense that you must constantly smile, speak about your book, make eye contact, approach people (as Jewel did). No room for shyness!"

Yes, the smiling and constant chatting can give you an ache in your jaw after a while.

I've been told by some of the event organisers at the bookstores that some authors sit behind a table and read a newspaper, without saying a word to anyone, and then wonder why not a single book sells. You really do have to work the crowd and be proactive... those books don't sell themselves.

My husband always goes along with me. He has a big smile, a very friendly way about him, and people instantly like him. We work really well together and I consider myself very fortunate to have such a helpful partner. I think he makes a huge difference.

Joyce wrote: "I like that tip! Thanks for sharing it, Jewel. (In case I need it for Costco. :-) )"
You're welcome, you lucky lady, you:-)