The Strategy of Cross-Promotion

Completely focused on the book they are currently publishing, authors often forget that new books are perfect opportunities to promote their other books! Here are some ways to use cross-promotion to your advantage, and acquire readers for your previous titles.

 

The Back Cover – Among your book description, endorsements, and author information, include the titles of your other books. If you have written several books, do not include a long list. Simply pick two or three, and vary the titles you feature for each book. By doing this, those who finish and enjoy your book will know exactly where to find your other work.


The Front Cover – You can always insert another book title on the cover page by writing “*Your Name*, Author of *Book Title*”


Include a Passage – At the end of your new book, insert the beginning of one of your other books. You can use the first chapter of the book, or the first several pages, but be sure to end the excerpt in a suspenseful or interesting point that leaves readers curious. The snippet should be exclusive to your book. With luck, this excerpt will intrigue them and they will purchase the entire book.


Special Offers – Also located at the end of your book, create a special offer for your readers. You can even include a link to a specifically designated page on your website. Thank them for reading your book, and insert a form where they can provide their name and email in exchange for a reward. This can be a free, or reduced price, download of one of your other books or another item related to your books. The free download will promote the alternate book, satisfy your reader, and, as a bonus, provide you with their emails for mailing lists and future contests.


Mailing Lists – Speaking of mailing lists, if you have accumulated emails or information in the past when you have promoted your other books, send an email alerting these readers that your new book is coming out. Once the book is released, send a link for them to purchase it. You can also include a promotion or contest here, giving prizes to select readers who are willing to read and review your book on Amazon.