Book Giveaways: An Effective Marketing Strategy?

Authors are often encouraged to give away free copies of their books, with the hope of spreading the word about their work. This is done through blog giveaways, online promotions, and other assorted methods. In your experience, have you found this to be beneficial? Does it translate into additional sales? Please share your thoughts.

Tags: book, giveaways, marketing, strategies

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Permalink Reply by Claire Power Murphy, FIBA, DG on February 5, 2012 at 7:11am

Sherry, I believe the matter of giving away books depends upon the author's circumstances and that of the recipients as well. If an author is a first time unknown the act of giving away materials, and even books, may make sense.

But, don't count on everyone rushing to 'share the word'! If the author has a message that they are burning to deliver no matter what the cost, then it makes sense. Of course, the actual cost of publication may make a difference. Giveaways such as you have been involved with in sharing with the troops are a lovely humanitarian gesture. Ultimately, the good we put out comes back although oftentimes later.

Permalink Reply by Brian Jud on February 5, 2012 at 1:40pm

One great use of a book is to use it as a "brochure" to promote your speaking or consulting business. Send your book to meeting planners or prospective customers. You should also send your book to niche reviewers, TV and radio producers, journalists at print media -- anyone who can spread the word on your behalf. Send your book to wholesalers for military exchanges, rep groups who call on corporate buyers and distributors to supermarkets, pharmacies, airport stores -- anyone who can sell your book for you. Be free with free copies and I think your sales, revenues and profits should increase, too, Brian