Becky Robinson's Blog, page 2

The Value of Building a Book Launch Team��

Why You Need to Engage Your Network��

Your existing networks are your greatest asset in book marketing���and reaching and mobilizing your networks is crucial for book launch success. 

This process is known as Network Mobilization and should be a part of your book launch strategy. 

To create early momentum for the book, the easiest place to start is with the people who already know and value the work an author puts into the world. Mobilizing this built-in network to become ambassadors for the book is key to expanding the reach of your book and your message. 

Let���s explore more about how to establish a book launch team from your existing connections and create a foundation of reviews to help your book find its audience. 

Start with Setting Goals

Identifying your book launch goals ahead of mobilizing your network will ensure you have a clear path for not only yourself but also for those people willing to help you share the message of your book far and wide. 

With focused planning, you can efficiently deploy your personal and professional connections to achieve maximum impact.

Network Mobilization goals can include: 

Getting review copies into the hands of early readers��Expanding the reach of the book through social sharing��Garnering media attention through PR connections and opportunities��Amassing bulk orders from people who can order larger quantitiesSecuring speaking engagements to expand your thought leadership��

While those goals are important to your book launch strategy, one of the most effective asks you���ll make of your networks is to read and review the book for launch week. Early Amazon reviews are an integral part of early success for every author, so mobilizing your network to focus primarily on securing Amazon reviews is a priority. 

���Nearly everything begins and ends with how you mobilize your network to become advocates for your book.���
Becky Robinson, CEO of Weaving Influence��

Now that we���ve mapped out the goals for Network Mobilization let���s dive deeper into how to effectively obtain Amazon reviews by building out your personalized launch team.   

Why Amazon Reviews Are Important

For authors preparing to promote their book, understanding how Amazon reviews impact their book launch strategy is fundamental for success. 

Investing significantly in securing early reviews, especially in the first few weeks after a book is released, can increase your chances of gaining visibility within the complexity of Amazon���s algorithm. 

What do we mean by visibility? If reviews signal to Amazon���s algorithm that this book is generating interest among buyers, books will appear more prominently in search results, ���also bought��� recommendations, and may even be considered for promotional opportunities. 

This can be a catch-22 for first-time authors who need reviews to get visibility but need visibility to get reviews. That���s why intentionally building an Amazon review team (a.k.a. a launch team) and mobilizing your network is an essential step in marketing a book for authors at all levels. 

What does it take to effectively mobilize your personal and professional networks for maximum impact during book launch? Let���s dive into it.

Building Your Book Launch Team��

When thinking about your book launch team, it���s important to start early as this process can be time-intensive, requires organization, and follows up with individuals to ensure their commitment to your book launch. 

Network mobilization requires two distinct approaches: one-to-one contacts and one-to-many contacts.

One-to-Many Contacts: In most cases, you do not have a personal connection with this list. It typically consists of your permission-based email list or who you may be connected with on social media but do not have a personal relationship with otherwise. You can reach more people at once with the one-to-many list. The communication is less personal than what you send to the one-to-one list but still allows you to enlist the support of these individuals during key moments of the book launch. 

For your one-to-many contacts, it���s important to identify the number of emails you will send to them and what types of support you will ask of them as you launch your book. These asks are not all that different from your personal contact list (see below), but you will not be sending out books to the individuals on the one-to-many list. You can certainly request they support you through: 

Purchasing a copy of the book, either pre-order or during launch weekBuying in bulk for their organization if they are in a position to do so Sharing about the book in their newsletter or on their blog Posting about the book launch on their social media channels Requesting a media introduction or other opportunity if they have connections 

Typically, we recommend sending 2-3 emails to this group specifically regarding the book, but you can trickle book-related content into your regularly scheduled newsletters and other email correspondence. 

One-to-One Contacts: Consider this your VIP list. These individuals will be your close personal connections from your personal or professional network. They know you. They know your work. When reaching out to this list, you will leverage your relationship with each contact, resulting in a higher rate of follow-through when asking them to support your book launch. These contacts may or may not receive an advanced reader copy of the book to read and review. 

For your one-to-one contacts, begin by mapping out your network. Categorize each contact into groups:

Friends, family, neighbors Current and past clients Current and past colleagues Industry peers and experts Influencers and social media connections Media relations  Professional association connections 

Next, you���ll want to identify all the ways that each contact can add value and promote your book. These will be your ���asks���: 

Read an early copy of the book Leave a review on Amazon Buy a copy of the book Buy the book in bulk Post the book on social media Share the book in a newsletterInvite you to be on their podcast Other media opportunities 

In return for these asks, you may offer your one-to-one network an advanced copy of the book, either in digital form via a PDF or a physical copy that you mail to them. Keep the various formats of the book in mind as you consider your book launch strategy and overall marketing budget. There may also be special bulk buy and pre-order incentives for this list. 

To manage this process smoothly, establish a spreadsheet to track essential information for each potential reviewer. Include columns for contact details, type of contact (friend, client, etc.), if they���ve agreed to join the book launch team, when you emailed them, when you sent the review copy of the book, and other important information you want to monitor as you work through the Network Mobilization process. 

The challenging part comes next: Following through to contact each group or individual to officially ask them to be a part of your book launch team! 

Mobilizing Your Book Launch Team��

Now that you have a key network that is primed and ready for your message, it���s critically important to have a strategic and focused way of involving these people in the book launch process. 

Involve them early. The sooner you involve your network, the more they will be invested in your success. Share glimpses of your journey to publishing your book. Tell the story of why the book is important for your organization and (by extension) for them. Let them know as early as you can that you view them as integral to sharing the message of your book. 

Book promotion is not self-promotion;
it���s message promotion.

Personally invite them to be involved in launching your book. The more personal your requests to support your book marketing, the more likely people will be to follow through. Identify your book launch team by calling them Book Ambassadors or some other catchy name. 

Provide a place for your network to connect and share ideas. A temporary LinkedIn group, for use during the book marketing campaign, is a great place for people to collaborate on book marketing ideas and for you as the author to celebrate people���s contributions while fueling their participation. The more insider information you can share in the group, the more exclusive and involved your group will feel.

Plan a schedule of requests and email them regularly. Before starting your formal asks of the group, let them know what to expect. You might let people know that you���ll be emailing a requested activity weekly for 6 weeks, for example. Then, plan out the asks and write as many of the emails in advance as you can.

Here is a suggested list of weekly asks, starting 6 weeks before book launch:

Six weeks before launch , request pre-orders and encourage your networks to invite others to pre-order the book.
Five weeks before launch , ask your network to get involved by promoting your book locally. Ideas could include contacting local bookstores to host events and stock your book, sharing about your book with local media, or inviting local friends to a Facebook group discussion about your book. 
Four weeks before launch , encourage your network to share a favorite quote from your book on social media channels or in email marketing to their lists. Provide graphics to make this request easy to fulfill.
Three weeks before launch , ask your network to prepare to share Amazon reviews. This message can include a reminder to people to finish reading their advance copies of your book and some simple instructions to craft a 2-3 sentence review. 
Two weeks before launch , involve your network in promoting any launch week events, including webinars or in-person events. Encourage them to invite others through social sharing, email marketing, or individual email outreach.
During launch week , request that your network buy the book to share with others while sharing about the book through social media channels, email marketing, or personal emails.

Look for ways to reward the people who help. Expressing gratitude for the ways people are involved is an important part of the book launch process. Consider creative ways to express your thanks.

Include your network in an ongoing plan. Your built-in network showed their commitment to your message before getting involved in your book marketing. They are likely a long-term member of your community. Involve them in plans to spread your book���s message far after the launch. Are you creating new certification programs based on the book���s content? They are the first ones to invite. Are you creating new events? Invite your community’s participation. Consider involving your network in the planning and execution of any ongoing work.

Book Launch Success

Considering books as seeds that you plant and grow, sharing your book generously and widely with a personal network can act as a springboard for early Amazon reviews and other opportunities to achieve important book launch milestones. Weaving Influence supported Minette Norman and Karolin Helbig in building a book launch team, meeting with them monthly to coach them on network mobilization. This resulted in a robust team of 250 supporters that advocated on their behalf, sharing on social media and helping them accrue over 100 global reviews within the first month of the book launch. With the support of the book launch team, Minette and Karolin were also able to reach 13,000 books in the first year and secure several prestigious awards.

Read the full case study here.

Remember, building a launch team isn���t just about marketing a book; it���s about creating a community around your work that will advocate for you throughout the author journey. 

Quality and Authenticity Matter

When you hear the word ���metrics,��� you probably think of numbers. While numbers are an important part of any successful book launch, quantity is not always what matters. 

Instead, authors should build authentic relationships with their book launch team, which yields stronger, more sustained support throughout not only the lifespan of the book but also the author’s journey. 

Another key area of focus is on quality Amazon reviews versus the quantity. A smaller book launch team eager to share thoughtful, honest reviews on Amazon will carry much more weight for readers���and for Amazon���s algorithms���versus hundreds of reviews filled with generic feedback. 

It is better to have a very strong network of fewer individuals who will show up to support your book launch than a bigger list with only a few people who are willing to commit to your asks. 

Quality reviews also maintain the integrity of the review system and give readers the confidence they need to buy your book and potentially share your message with their audiences in the future. 

The Bottom Line

Network mobilization, when thoughtfully planned and strategically executed, can promote your book in extraordinary ways. More than just a marketing tool, the book launch team is a community of individuals who believe in your work and can significantly add value to your book���s trajectory when properly mobilized. Don���t overlook this step when planning your book launch strategy. 

Take Action��

Working with a partner like Weaving Influence can ensure you successfully mobilize your networks with key messaging and guidelines. Get in touch with us today to get started! 

The post The Value of Building a Book Launch Team�� appeared first on Weaving Influence.

Episode 150: The Art of Authentic Self-Expression

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Welcome to Season 6 of The Book Marketing Action Podcast with Becky Robinson, where we give you information you can immediately implement to increase your influence and market your books more successfully.

In today���s episode, Becky is joined by author and poet Marla Taviano, who shares how her authentic online presence���one that embraces imperfection and interaction���has resonated with her followers. She explains her creative process, how she builds strong and genuine connections with her audience, and the significance of sharing her personal journey while uplifting other voices in her space.

Key Points From This Episode:

[01:53] Marla shares about herself, her writing, her books, and her other work in the world. 

[05:07] Marla and Becky discuss the challenges of selling books and reflect on other, more meaningful measures of success. 

[12:56] Marla explains her goal of being on 50 podcasts before she turns 50 on Halloween (this one is number 18).

[14:52] Discover some of the specific strategies that have helped Marla grow her following on Instagram and spread her important messages. 

[20:24] (AD) Schedule a call with Becky Robinson to discover how Weaving Influence���s custom strategies can support your book launch. 

[21:42] Marla talks about some of the content that has worked well for her, like poetry art, and the creative process behind that. 

[27:59] Learn how Marla keeps her Substack subscribers engaged and how important it has been in growing her brand.

[32:02] Marla reveals what happened to her previous blog posts and whether or not she would like to revisit them one day.

[35:01] Marla shares some final words of wisdom and inspiration by reciting some of her poems and explaining the meaning behind them. 

Action Steps:Don���t be afraid to be weird. Look for ways to show up as your authentic, vulnerable self online. Take some steps to start repurposing your content. What you have created in the past can be used in new ways to share value with your audience. Resources:Purchase Marla���s poetry collection��� unbelieve , jaded , and whole ���as well as her latest release, what makes you FART ?Follow Marla���s personal Instagram account and her account for amplifying authors of color, @whitegirllearning. Follow Marla on Threads. Subscribe to Marla���s Substack. She has an upcoming series for people who want to be podcast guests that will detail how to reach out to podcasters.To feature Marla on your podcast and help her reach her goal of 50 podcasts before her 50th birthday, reach out to her through her website or send her a DM.Key Quotes:

What I was born to do is read and write, and I love to promote other people’s writing as well. ���Marla Taviano 

We think that marketing will always translate into sales, but sometimes it translates into different opportunities in the world, or relationships. ���Becky Robinson

It’s difficult to tell people how to replicate what you’ve done, but what you’ve done is just bring the best of who you are to online spaces. ���Becky Robinson

People have thoughts, they have opinions, and when you are open to them and listening to them and engaging with them, that’s exciting for them. ���Marla Taviano 

You don’t have to come up with new content every single day. There are so many ways to reuse and repurpose. ���Marla Taviano 

I’m really passionate about people’s wholeness. Like, that’s my thing. I want people to be whole. ���Marla Taviano 

When people ask me, ���What’s your best advice?��� I’m like, ���Be weird. Be you.��� ���Marla Taviano

Take imperfect action. Be weird. That’s what’s going to resonate with people. That’s what’s going to connect with people. ���Marla Taviano

Sign up for the bi-weekly newsletter to connect with Becky Robinson and gain access to ongoing learning and conversation.

The post Episode 150: The Art of Authentic Self-Expression appeared first on Weaving Influence.

Episode 149: Achieving Success as a Debut Author

Photo by Eileen Molony Photography

Click here to listen on your device and subscribe! 

Welcome to Season 6 of The Book Marketing Action Podcast with Becky Robinson, where we give you information you can immediately implement to increase your influence and market your books more successfully.

In the first episode of Season 6, Becky is joined by Alison Fragale���bestselling author, research psychologist, award-winning professor, and international keynote speaker���who talks about the remarkable journey of launching her debut book, Likeable Badass. Alison discusses key strategies and initiatives behind her launch, the experience of working with a ���Big Five��� publisher, and how being proactive and consistent played pivotal roles in her success.

Key Points From This Episode:

[01:51] Alison shares about herself, her background, and her work in the world.

[03:17] Alison reveals what it was like working with a ���Big Five��� publisher and what went into achieving that.  

[05:54] Discover some of the perks that come with working with a ���Big Five��� publisher and some of the misconceptions people have about it. 

[08:00] Alison explains her understanding of what it means to be ���killing it��� with her release so far. Then Becky shares her perspective. 

[12:51] Alison shares some of the most impactful approaches that she has implemented on the path to selling nearly 50,000 books and seeing her speaking fees rise. 

[17:49] (AD) Schedule a call with Becky Robinson to discover how Weaving Influence���s custom strategies can support your book launch.

[18:45] What has been the most fun part of the journey for Alison? She reflects. 

[21:38] Alison reveals what she learned about mobilizing her network through the process of launching her book. 

[26:09] Alison concludes by talking about how she grew her audience on LinkedIn and how having that engaged audience early on helped when it came time to market her book.

Action Steps:If you���re an aspiring author or are in between projects, think about how you can grow your audience during this time. Take advantage of the opportunity to give and connect with people without asking for any support in return. Challenge yourself to be more consistent. Think about where you can show up with value the way Alison has through her LinkedIn presence over the past five years.Resources:Explore Alison���s website. Get a copy of Alison���s debut, bestselling book, Likeable Badass . Subscribe to Alison���s newsletter The Upper Hand on Substack.Follow Alison on LinkedIn and Instagram.Key Quotes:

If you do not decide it’s going to be your life’s work to sell books, no one else���including the biggest publisher in the world���is going to do it for you. ���Alison Fragale

If you do speak or want to speak, it provides a huge advantage in moving books. ���Alison Fragale

I think building your social channels is important. Get on social early and don���t have it be only about your book. ���Alison Fragale

I got the luxury of saying, ���If I’m going to do this, it’s going to be as fun as it can possibly be.��� ���Alison Fragale

It doesn’t matter who likes you. It matters who likes people who like you. And you can utilize that in books as well as everything else. ���Alison Fragale

The easiest time to build a relationship is when you’re brand new and when you don’t need anything from people, because then your reputation is a blank slate, and you can just focus on what you give. ���Alison Fragale

Consistency leads to growth. ���Alison Fragale

Sign up for the bi-weekly newsletter to connect with Becky Robinson and gain access to ongoing learning and conversation.

The post Episode 149: Achieving Success as a Debut Author appeared first on Weaving Influence.

Episode 148: Advanced Tactics for Marketing Your Book (Bonus Season Part 3)

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Welcome to a special bonus season of The Book Marketing Action Podcast with Becky Robinson! As we prepare to launch Season 6, we want to kick off the new year by sharing recordings from Becky���s sessions at Write to Publish 2024���an annual conference that helps writers reach their goals no matter where they are on their journey. This bonus season is split into three parts and covers all of Becky���s Write to Publish sessions on achieving book marketing success. 

In the final part of this bonus season, Becky outlines some of the most impactful tactics for effective book marketing, including network mobilization, Amazon review campaigns, public relations, and events. She also brings the episode to a close by sharing a meaningful story about how creating long-term impact is like planting trees and seeing them grow far beyond what you can imagine. 

Key Topics of This Episode: Becky reviews the four Reach commitments and the Reach Framework, which were the focus of part two of this bonus season.Becky spends time sharing the more advanced tactics that can be used to market your book, including:Network mobilization (determining your VIPs, launch team, and your ���in hopes that��� group) Amazon review campaigns and Amazon adsPublic relations (the impact of podcast appearances and some DIY approaches to obtaining media wins)Events, including virtual launch parties and webinars Becky answers audience questions to wrap up all that was covered during her three sessions on achieving book marketing success.Becky concludes with a touching story and inspiration for anyone who wants to create a lasting impact in the world. Action Step:While you���re working on your list of contacts for network mobilization, listen to this episode of The Book Marketing Action Podcast featuring Clint Pulver. He shares the story of how he came up with a list of 10,000 contacts to support his book launch.Resources:Get more details about the brand new Book Marketing Accelerator Course���an ongoing learning opportunity with monthly sessions throughout 2025 that will guide you through every aspect of how to market your book and build momentum for your book launch.Sign up to attend Write to Publish 2025, happening June 10-13, where Becky will be hosting a continuing class on marketing and platform building. Follow Becky on Instagram and LinkedIn. Order Becky���s book, Reach , to access more of her expert insights on creating the biggest possible audience for your message, book, or cause. Key Quotes:

One of the things that happens when you’re open about what’s real in your life is that you open a door for someone else to connect with something they have also experienced. ���Becky Robinson

Open up a spreadsheet, write down the names of every possible person you can think of, and don’t decide for them whether or not they are interested in supporting you. ���Becky Robinson

The more personal your request for help is, the more likely people are to follow through. ���Becky Robinson

When you have an Amazon review campaign, you want to make it as easy as possible for people to participate. ���Becky Robinson

In the media that you pitch, make sure you have the right pitch to the right outlet at the right time.  ���Becky Robinson

Pay attention to what other authors are doing in terms of their media appearances or article placements. ���Becky Robinson

For those of you who are embarking to make a difference in the world, you are looking at a vision and a future that is far beyond what you can imagine, and it is not going to happen overnight. ���Becky Robinson

Sign up for the bi-weekly newsletter to connect with Becky Robinson and gain access to ongoing learning and conversation.

The post Episode 148: Advanced Tactics for Marketing Your Book (Bonus Season Part 3) appeared first on Weaving Influence.

How to Plan A Book Launch Event��

The Purpose of Book Launch Events

You���ve written your manuscript, found a publisher, survived the revisions, and now you have a date circled on your calendar when your book will launch into the world. 

This is a big deal, and you need to celebrate it!

The best way to cap this important milestone is with a book launch event. Whether you choose to celebrate with an in-person book launch or a virtual launch party, a book launch event is a pivotal moment to transform your book from a personal accomplishment to a public experience. 

A book launch event serves as a critical marketing tool to connect you, the author, to not only those who have supported your author journey but those future potential readers. While book launch events can boost sales, they should not be thought of as merely promotional activities but, instead, a strategic book marketing investment that creates a lasting impression. 

Read on to learn more about the goals of a book launch event and how to promote your book, all while celebrating your achievement as an author. 

The Potential Outcomes of a Book Launch Event

Marketing a new book is time-intensive, whether you���re a first-time author or an author of many titles. Many authors have likened it to a second full-time job. 

In the various moving pieces associated with book marketing, ���throwing a party��� often gets sidelined as the author���s time, energy, and other resources tap out; however, a book launch event should not be viewed as ���just a party��� but instead as a way to further boost your message and expand the reach of your book. 

Using Webinars to Amplify Your Message

Weaving Influence supports Bob Tiede, multi-book author, through comprehensive marketing tactics ranging from email marketing to virtual events. In partnership with Weaving Influence, Bob employs the power and reach of webinars to promote this content, such as his Leading With Questions book with co-author Michael J. Marquardt. Webinars give Bob the opportunity to reach new audiences and share his content on a deeper level, and they also allow the attendees to ask questions and gain more value from Bob.

Read the full case study here.

To help you see these events as more than just a pile of confetti, here are some goals to keep in mind as you plan your book launch event: ���

Your book is not just about you. Book launch events transform a solitary accomplishment into a public celebration, creating initial sales momentum and generating broader awareness about the book’s existence and relevance.Go beyond the screen. Book launch events provide authors with a strategic platform to build personal connections with potential readers and initiate word-of-mouth marketing efforts. Create a movement. Inviting others to partake in your special occasion gives them that exclusive insider look that creates solidarity. If people feel like they are a part of something, they are more likely to support it and share it with the rest of the world. Your book included. Position yourself as the expert. A book launch event is an opportunity to stand out, differentiating you from other similar authors in the marketplace. It also gives you an opportunity to establish subject matter credibility.Celebrate your supporters. A book launch event doesn���t have to be all about you. If self-promotion is uncomfortable for you, use your book event to say thank you to your biggest cheerleaders and make your gratitude stand out among future readers. 

People want to help. One primary value to book launch events is that your friends and colleagues are poised to become advocates for your book and its message simply because they know you and want the best for you. Use your book launch celebration as a chance to remind people of the key ways they can help propel you to success as an author. Remind them to buy, review, and share your book with others. 

Authentic connection is critical in boosting your book launch event to new heights, so keep that in mind as you���re planning. 

Next, let���s look at the two main types of book launch events to help you promote your new book. 

In-Person Book Launch Events 

An in-person book launch event should be a vibrant, interactive experience, bridging the gap between authors and their audiences. 

When you think of your in-person event, think beyond a book signing. Will you be signing books? YES! However, meeting with people in person is all about making connections with your community, your supporters, and future readers. You also set the stage for others to connect to each other. 

By strategically designing physical events, you generate meaningful engagement while amplifying your book���s message. 

Create Value

Think about how you can create the most value for yourself and your attendees. Here are some strategic networking opportunities to consider: 

Partner with local bookstores, both independent and chain bookstores Reach out to local media to create PR opportunities that can spotlight your event Look into local literary communities that can spread the word about your event; think writing clubs or reading circles Consider a cause; depending on your message, you may find opportunities to connect with local non-profits or other organizations to create additional buy-in for your book and message Add in an event planner or a photographer to make the most of this memorable event Identify Event Activities 

Once you establish how to boost visibility by making these strategic connections, you will want to think about the types of things that you���ll do at your book launch event. Some considerations: 

A personal book signing experience lets you meet each attendee one-on-one (versus having a stack of pre-signed books available) Talk about your author journey, giving behind-the-scenes details about what it was like to write, publish, and market your book Select a few key passages to read aloud to the group and then invite them for a Q&A session to share even more about your message and your author journey Make it Memorable

Every party needs to be planned, and your book launch event will be no different. Think about the details that will make this event memorable for everyone who attends:

Where will the event take place? Venue for your event Is there an optimal day and time for your event? Who will receive an invite? How will invites be sent? Are there other ways to promote the event to the general public? Do you need special lighting? A projector? Sound system? What are the seating arrangements? Will there be a book display outside of the signing table? 

In-person book launch events generate buzz and create engagement that online events simply can���t replicate. When you meet face-to-face, you can show your authentic self and react to people in real time. There is a vulnerability with in-person events, and this emotional connection is what spurs genuine dialogue and lasting support.

Defining Success

Success for an in-person book launch event will look different for every author, depending on your book marketing goals. 

Measures of success may include:

Book Sales: Tracking book sales during the eventAudience Engagement: Capturing audience engagement through social media mentionsMedia Mentions: Recording the number of media mentionsAttendee Participation: Assessing the long-term impact of attendee participation (did they leave a review or attend other book-related events?)��

In many cases, authors simply want to share their milestones with family, friends, colleagues, their Book Ambassadors, and other supporters. 

So, success may be as simple as asking yourself: 

Did you have fun? If the answer is yes, then success! 

virtual book launch events

Unlike in-person events, virtual book launch events break down logistical and geographical barriers, providing greater reach to audiences in locations worldwide. 

These online gatherings leverage technology to create immersive, interactive experiences that offer a number of benefits, including: 

Accessibility: Online book launch events cater to a more fast-paced, digital world where people often face time or mobility constraints. It���s often more time-efficient to jump on a one-hour Zoom celebration during the workday than it is to drive to and from an in-person venue. And, for those not able to travel, being able to attend via the computer opens up greater possibilities for being a part of the celebration. Cost-Saving: An online book launch event will also save you money as you���re not paying for a venue, food or drink, photographer, or technology rental (projectors/screens). This cost reduction may allow you to invite more people or do a special giveaway that may not be possible with the in-person book launch event. Engagement: While in-person celebrations are prime for making personal connections, online events can significantly expand your reach by allowing more people to attend and allowing them to share about the book immediately online to their networks. The ability to share widely is a key bonus for virtual book launch events. One click can reach thousands of people. 

To learn more about leveraging virtual events, check out The Book Marketing Action Podcast interview with Wendy Haan, Weaving Influence���s marketing services manager!

Engaging with your online audience is pretty straightforward but, like in-person celebrations, your virtual book launch event should be strategically planned out: 

Prioritize Engagement 

Engaging with the audience is critical when people are sitting behind a computer screen. Consider implementing one or more of these book promotion ideas: 

Interactive Q&A Sessions: Audiences can submit questions in real-time��Add a Moderator: Let someone else lead the conversation to boost engagementInvite Guests: If self-promotion is hard for you, inviting other experts in your field or someone from your network can take the spotlight off of you, focusing on your book���s message. You may even invite other authors to co-lead the event!��Identify Technical Challenges 

Logistically, online events should be easier to plan for, but they still require some planning. Here���s what you���ll want to think about before you go live: 

What platform will you use? Zoom, YouTube, Instagram/Facebook Live all have different technological features that you���ll want to be aware of. Is your equipment up to date and working correctly? Do a sound and video tech check in advance of the event plus the day of the event to avoid technical issues. Is there a backup communication channel for any day-of glitches? What if Zoom is down? Is there another channel your attendees can quickly access to keep the party going? What are your calls to action? Have any website links you want to share ready so that making the ask for reviews, book purchases, social share, and more are easy for the people at the event. 

Virtual Launch Party Success

Mark Miller is the Co-Founder of Lead Every Day, a business leader and communicator, and an international best-selling author. He has worked with Weaving Influence on 11 book launches, including his recent launch of Culture Rules. To support the successful launch of this book, Weaving Influence organized and hosted a virtual party on launch day for Mark Miller���s followers to celebrate with him, ask him questions, and congratulate him. It was also a time to encourage orders and Amazon reviews for Culture Rules, resulting in multiple #1 New Release banners on Amazon.

Read the entire case study here.

Defining Success

Here are the considerations for how you might define success: 

Attendee Registration: How many people signed up to attend��Live Attendee Count: How many people were live at the event��Book Sales: How many books were sold during your event��Social Media: What were the social media engagement ratesCommunity: Did you build long-term relationships with your attendees?

If the goal is to create sustained interest in the book, the community-building aspect should be central to your online event strategy. Meaningful connections have long-term benefits, and you never know who will leave a review, buy a book, or show up to your next event based on your authentic connection! 

Maximizing Book Launch Impact

Whether you opt for an online virtual book launch event or something in-person, a book launch is a strategic moment to amplify your message, turning a single event into an ongoing conversation that extends your book’s impact for years to come.

As your event comes to a close, your follow-up strategies will be just as important as those initial efforts of planning your book launch event. 

Boost your event���s impact by: 

Emailing your attendee list to thank them for their participation and support. Hand-written notes may be more applicable to an in-person celebration. Either way, follow up to let them know you appreciate them. Provide an easy way for them to follow through on calls-to-actions. Create a social sharing folder with pre-written social media posts and graphics to make sharing with their networks easy. If the request is to leave a review, share a few examples and some step-by-step instructions so they can quickly post their review. Continue to share about the event even after it���s concluded. Grab video highlights to share on social media or use attendee quotes in your next newsletter. And send out the replay to anyone who was unable to make it to the live event. Your launch day is one day, but the celebration can last as long as you���re excited about your book and message. Create a discussion group. Invite those to share about it on their networks and meet twice a month to discuss key book topics with them. This connection time will create a strong community that will share your enthusiasm around your message. 

Remember: Celebrating the launch of your book can be as big or as small as you want to make it. But whether you choose the all-out bash or a smaller vent, make sure you take a moment to breathe and realize what you have accomplished.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right format for your book launch event, whether in-person, virtual, or a hybrid of both, is a crucial step in the marketing of your book. Think beyond self-promotion and celebrating you; instead, consider the opportunity to build community around your message and showcase your work. A thoughtfully planned book launch can create lasting memories that will enhance your visibility and build a loyal network, laying the foundation as an author. It���s a win for you, personally and professionally. So, take some time to celebrate! 

Take Action

Working with a partner like Weaving Influence can create ongoing momentum for your book during and post-launch. Get in touch with us today to get started!

The post How to Plan A Book Launch Event�� appeared first on Weaving Influence.

Episode 147: Unlocking Book Marketing Success With the Four Reach Commitments (Bonus Season Part 2)

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Welcome to a special bonus season of The Book Marketing Action Podcast with Becky Robinson! As we prepare to launch Season 6, we want to kick off the new year by sharing recordings from Becky���s sessions at Write to Publish 2024���an annual conference that helps writers reach their goals no matter where they are on their journey. This bonus season is split into three parts and covers all of Becky���s Write to Publish sessions on achieving book marketing success. 

In part two, Becky outlines the four Reach Commitments that are necessary for expanding your audience and creating a lasting impact: value, consistency, longevity, and generosity. She also dives into the fundamentals of how to get started on the journey to creating reach. 

Key Topics of This Episode: Becky���s definition of reachThe four Reach Commitments:ValueConsistencyLongevityGenerosity The Reach Framework:Start with a websiteGet people to sign up for your email list from your website or a lead magnetCreate content of value in a variety of formats (content marketing)Share that content to grow your presence on social media Questions about growing an email list, repurposing content, and more A story about the power of bringing online connections offline Action Steps:Reflect on this question: As you think about the next book that you���re working on, what is the job you want that book to do for your life and career? Write down your answer so you don���t forget it. After learning about the four Reach Commitments, consider which one draws you in the most. How will you live out that commitment moving forward?Resources:Get more details about the brand new Book Marketing Accelerator Course���an ongoing learning opportunity with monthly sessions throughout 2025 that will guide you through every aspect of how to market your book and build momentum for your book launch.Sign up to attend Write to Publish 2025, happening June 10-13, where Becky will be hosting a continuing class on marketing and platform building. Follow Becky on Instagram and LinkedIn. Order Becky���s book, Reach , to access more of her expert insights on creating the biggest possible audience for your message, book, or cause. Key Quotes:

Your job when you’re crafting a book marketing strategy is to think about all the possibilities and to pull the strings of the approaches that are most appropriate for your book. ���Becky Robinson

Reach is expanding audience plus lasting impact. ���Becky Robinson

My book would not be the book it is without the help of an editor. ���Becky Robinson

Content is the container for the value that we want to bring to the world. ���Becky Robinson

The easiest and fastest way to become memorable to people is to be very clear about what you’re talking about so they know what to expect from you. ���Becky Robinson

The most important part of your online presence is your own website. ���Becky Robinson

If we go to someone’s website, it’s almost like we went to their home. We can see a bit more of who they are. We can get to know them a bit more. ���Becky Robinson

The most important and impactful asset that we have to repurpose is the raw experience of our own lives. ���Becky Robinson

Sign up for the bi-weekly newsletter to connect with Becky Robinson and gain access to ongoing learning and conversation. 

The post Episode 147: Unlocking Book Marketing Success With the Four Reach Commitments (Bonus Season Part 2) appeared first on Weaving Influence.

Episode 146: The Four Phases of Marketing a Book (Bonus Season Part 1)

Click here to listen on your device and subscribe! 

Welcome to a special bonus season of The Book Marketing Action Podcast with Becky Robinson! As we prepare to launch Season 6, we want to kick off the new year by sharing recordings from Becky���s sessions at Write to Publish 2024���an annual conference that helps writers reach their goals no matter where they are on their journey. This bonus season is split into three parts and covers all of Becky���s Write to Publish sessions on achieving book marketing success. 

In part one, Becky demystifies the book marketing process by grouping it into four distinct phases: building, working, launching, and advancing. By providing detailed guidance around each phase, Becky sparks new ideas for authors as they work to build a substantial audience, effectively manage the pre-launch period for their books, and maintain momentum post-launch. 

Key Topics of This Episode: The Building Phase (more than six months before launch).The Working Phase (less than six months before launch).The Launching Phase (the month of launch).The Advancing Phase (the month after launch and beyond).Answering questions about the four phases of marketing a book.Becky���s favorite book marketing reframes:Book marketing is not self-promotion, it���s value promotion. Book marketing is not a sprint, and it���s not a marathon. It���s showing up consistently in small ways over a long period of time.Other authors who write about the same topic as you are not your competitors���they are collaborators. Your network does not view your book marketing as an imposition. Instead, they are honored to be included on your journey. Action Steps:Pause for a moment and think: If you had the opportunity to share your book with others, who would you give it away to? Once you have reached The Advancing Phase, consider what you can do to keep your book in the conversation over time. What are some creative and strategic ways to keep showing up in online spaces? Resources:Get more details about the brand new Book Marketing Accelerator Course���an ongoing learning opportunity with monthly sessions throughout 2025 that will guide you through every aspect of how to market your book and build momentum for your book launch.Sign up to attend Write to Publish 2025, happening June 10-13, where Becky will be hosting a continuing class on marketing and platform building. Follow Becky on Instagram and LinkedIn. Order Becky���s book, Reach , to access more of her expert insights on creating the biggest possible audience for your message, book, or cause. Key Quotes:

Everything that you do as an author along the way has to be about building connections in the world so that you can reach more people with your message. ���Becky Robinson

Launching, or preparing to launch, a book is always going to take more time, energy, and money than you think. ���Becky Robinson

You are officially the Chief Marketing Officer of your book. ���Becky Robinson

The journey to writing your book can be the journey to creating the content that will help people connect with you and your ideas.  ���Becky Robinson

In order to reach your audience and your goals, you have to first know who your audience is and what success looks like for you. ���Becky Robinson

My deeply held belief is that the most important investment you can make in marketing your book, especially when you’re a first-time author, is to give copies of your book away to others. ���Becky Robinson

Your value is not contained in the number of followers that you have, your value is contained in the number of people that you can reach in a meaningful way over time. ���Becky Robinson

Sign up for the bi-weekly newsletter to connect with Becky Robinson and gain access to ongoing learning and conversation. 

The post Episode 146: The Four Phases of Marketing a Book (Bonus Season Part 1) appeared first on Weaving Influence.

January 2025 Leadership Development Carnival

Weaving Influence has the privilege of hosting the January 2025 Leadership Development Carnival! We���re excited to share posts from leadership experts from around the globe on the topics of communication, development, engagement, motivation, productivity, team building, and more.

Communication

Diana Peterson-More shared My 2025 New Year���s Resolutions: Eager to Hear Yours. Diana explains: “It’s that time of the year for New Year’s Resolutions. While many of mine include the standards: lose weight, exercise more, eat more healthfully, and save money, I’ve added to the list three communication tools from the book I published this year: 1) tamp down the “lizard brain” (while driving); 2) avoid “assuming facts not in evidence” (with my children): and, 3) follow the admonition of Rodney King (to whom the book is dedicated) to “just get along” (with those who hold world views in opposition to my own). What are your resolutions?��� Find Diana on LinkedIn.

CREATIVITY / INSPIRATION

Eileen McDargh contributed Becoming Present To Presence – Living In A Distracted World. Eileen explains: “We are pulled and torn by so many distractions, news reports, family matters, team issues���you name it. There are private and public resources available to help employees practice mindfulness & manage stress and I���ll share them with you.” Connect with Eileen on Twitter.

Brenda Yoho submitted Taking Stock: Shifting from Problem to Solution. Brenda writes: “The challenges we face can feel overwhelming���endless problems across all areas of life that seem to magnify daily. However, amidst the chaos, there is an opportunity to shift our mindset from problem-focused to solution-focused approaches. By taking stock of where we are and developing the skills and knowledge necessary to cope effectively, we can move forward with purpose and resilience.” Connect with Brenda on LinkedIn.

Development

Sean Glaze of Great Results Team Building shared 15 Questions Leaders Can Use to Transform Challenging Team Members into High Performers. Sean writes: ���Are you struggling with challenging team members? The right questions can transform them into your most valuable assets. Every leader will face tough personalities. But instead of seeing them as obstacles, view them as opportunities to strengthen your leadership toolkit and unlock untapped potential on your team.��� Find Sean on Twitter.

Dana Theus of InPower Coaching writes Ouch. I���ve Been Hiding Behind ‘Leadership’: Does calling ‘authority’ something else make it safer? Dana explains: ���I have a dirty little secret to share. For someone who writes a lot about power, I have to admit to you (and myself) that my fascination with this topic hides an ugly truth I wish wasn���t true about me. The truth is that I���m very afraid of power. Power scares me. Not just being around it but having it, too. Am I the only one? Probably not. Is this one reason women have so little formal power in the world? Probably so.��� Find Dana on LinkedIn.

Frank Sonnenberg shared Does It Pay to Nickel-and Dime? Frank explains: “Nickel-and-diming may seem harmless, but is it worth the cost? Small fees can boost profits, yet they erode trust and damage reputations in ways hard to repair.” Connect with Frank on Twitter.

Bill Treasurer of Giant Leap Consulting contributed Carry Yourself Like a Leader. Bill explains: “In a world often governed by fear and uncertainty, embracing an opportunity mindset is not just refreshing but transformative. This mindset shifts our focus from avoiding threats to seizing the chances for growth and development. It’s about understanding that opportunities are not just external chances that come our way, but are created and nurtured by leaders who understand their power to change lives.” Connect with Bill on LinkedIn.

Julie Winkle Giulioni shared Leadership 2025: Three Priorities You Can���t Ignore in the New Year. Julie explains: “As we enter 2025, the dynamics of leadership and organizational success continue to shift under the weight of complex global challenges and transformative trends. Today���s business landscape demands that leaders adopt bold strategies to navigate uncertainty, engage their teams meaningfully, and drive sustainable growth. Learn three interconnected priorities that stand out as essential for 2025.” Connect with Julie on LinkedIn.

Jon Verbeck provided Your Year-End Financial Checklist: Closing Strong and Planning for 2025. Jon writes: ���As the year winds down, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are at a pivotal crossroads: it���s time to finish strong while setting the stage for even greater success in 2025. This is your opportunity to assess whether your financial performance hit your goals, tackle any remaining obstacles, and lay out a bold strategy for the future.��� Follow Jon LinkedIn.

Ann Van Eron submitted The Birds of Worry and Care. Ann says: “That the birds of worry and care fly over your head, this you cannot change, but that they build nests in your hair, this you can prevent.��� ��� Chinese Proverb. Lately, I���ve been reflecting on this quote, especially given everything happening in the world and the constant stream of worries that come with being a leader���whether in business, community, or family. And believe me, I get it.” Connect with Ann on LinkedIn.

Engagement

David Grossman of The Grossman Group provided How to Give Feedback to Motivate and Engage Employees. David shares: “When giving feedback to employees, there���s an intentional approach you can take for it to be truly effective and given in a way that fosters motivation and engagement. This comprehensive guide outlines a four-step process and delves into the benefits of using feedback as a tool for improvement rather than criticism, along with actionable tips and specific examples of how to give positive and constructive feedback in different scenarios.” Follow David on LinkedIn.

Jon Lokhorst of Lokhorst Consulting shared Coaching Is the Answer to Employee Engagement. Jon explains: ���Recent Gallup research indicates that top-performing organizations maintain higher employee engagement levels through managers who support their team members with coaching. Here are three tips for becoming a master coach.” Find Jon on LinkedIn.

Michael Lee Stallard submitted Connected Leaders, Stand Strong! Michael writes: “Leading with connection isn’t the norm in many industries. We want to remind leaders why it matters and offer encouragement to help them persevere.” Connect with Michael on LinkedIn.

Karin Hurt and David Dye shared 5 Critical Insights to Empower Your Team in the New Year. They write: “What if this year, you could empower your team to not only start strong but stay strong���aligned, motivated, and clear on what success looks like every step of the way? Great teams don���t thrive by chance; they crush their goals because they know exactly where they���re going and the habits they need to get there.” Connect with Karin on LinkedIn and David on LinkedIn.

productivity

Neal Burgis of Successful Solutions contributed Retiring on Your Own Terms. Neal explains: “Retirement doesn’t have to be a passive chapter in your life. It can be productive depending on how you live it. Best Wishes to all who take the plunge and do what you want to do when you Retire on your Own Terms.” Follow Neal on Twitter.

Mary Ila Ward of Horizon Point Consulting shared 2024 Book of the Year. Mary writes: “Productivity has always been one of our five operating values at Horizon Point. We tie it intimately to our value of passion, which looks something like this: Get stuff done. Get stuff done that is important and that we care about.” Find Mary on LinkedIn.

Team Building

Priscilla Archangel submitted Trusting The New Leader. Priscilla writes: “Whether public or private, government or non-profit, each organization survives and thrives based on the level of trust that stakeholders have in their leadership team. And the board, owners, or others with oversight, are ultimately responsible for ensuring they���ve identified the right talent to place into those roles. Their selected candidate must quickly build trust, which is the foundation of every leadership appointment.” Connect with Priscilla on LinkedIn.

Robyn McLeod contributed The Keys to Thriving Hybrid Teams: Trust and Transparency. Robyn writes: “The keys to thriving hybrid teams: Trust and transparency. When team members trust each other, they are more likely to work together effectively and support each other. As a leader, you have the responsibility to model and enable trust ��� and that���s even more important in our hybrid world of work.” Connect with Robyn on Twitter.

OTHER

Marcella Bremer contributed Ready for 2025? Marcella considers: “Are you ready for 2025? We���ve seen a lot of disruption – and not just ecological changes, also in political, economical, social, and technological systems. Here���s an overview of my articles about futures, foresight and how to prepare your organization for change.” Follow Marcella on LinkedIn.

S. Chris Edmonds shared Mitigate Workplace Loneliness with a Vibrant Culture. Chris explains: “People across the globe are suffering from an epidemic of isolation and loneliness. Not all workplaces create loneliness, isolation and disrespect. Some sustain work cultures that are purposeful, positive and productive ��� and employees love working for those companies.” Find Chris on LinkedIn.

Naomi Caietti submitted AI Literacy in Action: Kicking Off Your Roadmap to Business Success in 2025! Naomi writes: “In today���s tech-driven world, AI literacy isn���t just a buzzword; it���s a must-have skill set for leaders looking to navigate an evolving business landscape. From CEOs and product managers to small business owners, understanding and leveraging AI is rapidly becoming the cornerstone of innovation, efficiency, and success. To help you and your organization stay ahead, I���m excited to launch the AI Literacy Series���a five-part journey into the transformative potential of AI.” Connect with Naomi on LinkedIn.

Thank you to everyone who submitted articles for this month’s carnival! If you would like to be added to the distribution list for submission calls, please fill out this form and we’ll be happy to add you to the list.

The post January 2025 Leadership Development Carnival appeared first on Weaving Influence.

Episode 145: Navigating Grief Through Writing and Podcasting��

Photo by Danielle Barnum Photography

Click here to listen on your device and subscribe! 

Welcome to Season 5 of The Book Marketing Action Podcast with Becky Robinson, where we give you information you can immediately implement to increase your influence and market your books more successfully.

In the final episode of Season 5, Becky is joined by Jenny Lisk���founder of the Widowed Parent Institute and award-winning author���who talks about her purposeful approach to sharing her story and insights with a broader audience, underscoring her commitment to filling the resource gaps she encountered as a widowed parent. She describes the challenge of determining which personal experiences to share publicly and the fine line between sharing her own story as a grieving parent while also respecting the stories of her grieving children. Additionally, the episode highlights Jenny’s strategic use of podcasting to build community, illustrating how her podcast has become a significant platform for dialogue on grief and parenting.

Key Points From This Episode:

[01:46] Jenny shares about herself and her work in the world. 

[03:17] Jenny talks about what it was like to write in real time about the heart-wrenching journey of having a terminally ill husband. 

[05:42] Discover how and when Jenny decided to share her experiences and her story more widely. 

[08:11] Jenny reveals the resource that was most useful for her as she crafted her memoir: The Anatomy of Story by John Truby. 

[10:00] Why has it been so important for Jenny to open up about her journey as a widowed parent? She shares some reflections. 

[11:57] Jenny discusses what she has seen and experienced as a result of making the intentional choice to share her journey in online spaces. 

[16:15] Jenny explains how she decides which experiences or stories are okay to share in real-time vs. which ones should be shared later or kept private. 

[20:26] Jenny talks about interviewing her daughter on her podcast, which she has done once before. 

[20:58] (AD) Learn about our Book Marketing Strategy Live Course.

[22:29] Jenny discusses her decision to start a podcast and what inspired it. 

[25:11] Jenny reveals how long she did her podcast before she launched her first book. 

[26:08] Discover how starting a podcast helped Jenny find her voice and navigate being a widowed parent.

[28:06] Jenny shares some of the most impactful ways she repurposes her content, which includes creating evergreen email sequences.  

Action Steps:

If you���re thinking about ways to repurpose your content, consider whether you can create an email sequence that���s evergreen. This is an effective way to help people continue to get your best ideas.  If you���re struggling with the feeling of vulnerability as you approach the launch of your book, write down this quote from author Julie Lythcott-Haims: ���Memoir is an act of service.��� Every time you question your journey, take a look at that quote to remember why you���re doing it.  

Resources:

We���re giving away both of Jenny���s books! Two random winners will be selected, one receiving a signed and personalized copy of Widowed Parents Unite and the other receiving a signed and personalized copy of Future Widow . Winners will be selected randomly on Friday, November 22, and will be notified via email. Fill out this form to enter!Explore Jenny���s website and sign up for her newsletter. Follow Jenny on Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, YouTube, and Tiktok.Learn more about the Widowed Parent Institute, founded by Jenny.Listen to The Widowed Parent Podcast on Spotify and Apple PodcastsDiscover these free resources from Jenny: Tips & Resources for Widowed ParentsTips & Resources for Grief AlliesCrash Course for Nonfiction Authors

Key Quotes:

I’m working on some picture books for grieving kids, and my daughter is my illustrator, which I’m very excited about. ���Jenny Lisk

I’d never planned on raising two grieving kids myself. I wanted to start sharing in real time how this was unfolding for me. ���Jenny Lisk

I knew memoir is inherently a vulnerable genre. You’re telling something about your life and the ups and the downs and the good and the bad and all these things. ���Jenny Lisk

I didn’t expect to have this vulnerability freak out. ���Jenny Lisk

My topic is widowed parenting, and I’m talking to widowed parents, and yet my kids’ stories are their own to share. ���Jenny Lisk

The podcast and the ability to talk to people, learn from them, and build relationships with them have really been an important part of this whole journey. ���Jenny Lisk

Sign up for the bi-weekly newsletter to connect with Becky Robinson and gain access to ongoing learning and conversation. 

Explore our archives! Listen to Becky���s five favorite episodes:

Episode 106 with Jane FriedmanEpisode 108 with  AJ HarperEpisode 112 with Clint Pulver Episode 121 with Juliet StarrettEpisode 125 with Michael Bungay Stanier

The post Episode 145: Navigating Grief Through Writing and Podcasting�� appeared first on Weaving Influence.

Breaking Up the Digital Book Monopoly: Reimagining Digital Ownership for Authors and Readers

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Information in this article is pulled from Episode 144 of The Book Marketing Action Podcast featuring Joshua Stone. 

The landscape of digital book ownership is undergoing a transformation. With traditional ebook monopolies like Kindle dominating the market, emerging platforms are challenging the status quo by restoring true ownership to readers and providing exceptional benefits to authors. 

In the latest episode of The Book Marketing Action Podcast, Joshua Stone���CEO of Book.io���explains the significance of digital book ownership and the potential for reshaping the industry.

���Technology hasn���t evolved in the ebook and audiobook space, basically since it was invented. And I feel like it���s definitely time that occurs, and it���s going to usher in a lot of new changes.��� ���Joshua Stone

Rethinking Digital Book Ownership Through Emerging Platforms

Traditional ebook platforms have long embedded a licensing model that limits readers��� access to digital content, meaning that:

Readers don���t truly own the digital books they purchase. They are effectively just purchasing a license to view the books.��Readers can���t resell their books, leaving the books forgotten on a digital shelf.��Authors don���t actually own their audience���the retailer does���so there is a lack of transparency and no way for authors to communicate directly with their digital book consumers, which limits their marketing efforts.��

Platforms like Book.io are working to redefine this dynamic and improve the experience for both readers and authors. Their goal is to take the freedom, transparency, and ownership that people have when they purchase a physical book and have that exist in the digital world, as well. The benefits of this shift include:

Giving readers full ownership of any ebooks and audiobooks they purchase, eliminating the risk of having their access taken away.Providing readers with the option to sell their books on a global secondary market.��Allowing publishers and authors to earn royalties for first-time digital book sales, and continued royalties on secondary sales.��Giving authors access to user data, helping to inform their marketing efforts and engage their audience.

This last point in particular is a significant one. By allowing data transparency and direct interaction, authors can optimize their marketing strategies and offer tailored reader experiences.

Optimizing Author-Reader Interaction and Marketing Opportunities��

Unlike traditional platforms where authors are distanced from their audiences, Book.io offers unparalleled access to user data, enabling targeted marketing and strategic audience building.

���You can start to do really interesting marketing and merchandising and gamify the experience, which exists in many, many other verticals, but has never been opened up to book publishing in the way that this allows���because it’s not licensed, it’s actual ownership. There are just an infinite amount of ways that it helps from the marketing standpoint.��� ���Joshua Stone 

This direct line to consumer habits and preferences allows authors to innovate in ways unimaginable before. Joshua Stone provides an example of what one author has been able to do through Book.io:

When releasing their second book, the author offered a discount to anyone who had the first book on their digital shelf.If users owned the first book and the second book, then they automatically got the third book for free when it came out.Every user who had all three books and kept them got exclusive access to the fourth book in the series.

This strategy incentivizes initial sales while fostering deeper reader engagement. The ability to verify who has read a book also paves the way for creating exclusive reader clubs and personalized interactions between authors and their audience. 

By enabling genuine ownership and facilitating direct engagement, platforms like Book.io offer exciting new avenues for both creating and consuming content. As these technologies continue to evolve, they promise a future where authors and readers alike have true agency over their digital assets.��

Next Steps

Explore Book.io for yourself���either as an author or as a reader. Take time to familiarize yourself with the platform and experience the difference of actually owning your digital content, being able to resell it, and having access to your audience.

With more than 25 years in tech, Joshua Stone has experience in all stages of development from fledgling startups to established enterprises. In 1999, he contributed to the initial development of Fandango.com, later he led the interactive marketing teams for AT&T, and further led the Product/UX team for hotels.com/Expedia, Inc. Josh has had two startup exits, Big Jump Media (GodTube.com), and BookShout.com, where he was President and Chief Product Officer. Most recently, he served as CEO of a NYT-Bestselling Author���s digital training platform before starting Book.io.

The post Breaking Up the Digital Book Monopoly: Reimagining Digital Ownership for Authors and Readers appeared first on Weaving Influence.