Rich and the Niche: Marketing My Book

One of my ongoing beliefs about social media and internet commerce in general is that it should be possible, theoretically at least, to reach your perfect niche audience.  Whether you’re a musician, filmmaker, writer, or simple have the ideal invention, you have access to that special group that would like exactly what you have to offer.

My Appearance on "Connie Martinson Talks Books"

Of course, that doesn’t mean that the task of reaching that niche is a simple one.

“My Life at the Bottom of the Food Chain” has given me a tangible product - something that I can offer to the world at large. It’s not a proposed project, a partially completed project, or a concept.  It’s a book that available now through the tradtional channels.  Nearly anyone in the world can read my book in ebook or paperback formats, thanks to online retail sites.

The challenge, as a first time author, has been to generate awareness, and I’ve had some moderate success in that area since I released the book earlier this year.

As of this writing, I’ve enjoyed six reviews on Amazon, and five on Goodreads - along with a total of eleven ratings on Goodreads, as well.  I’d like to see more.  I also enjoyed a couple of good YouTube reviews, too.

I was interviewed on “Connie Martinson Talks Books,” a longtime book review and interview program that is available both on cable and on YouTube.  The opportunity to appear on a program that has also featured some of the most noted writers of the last thirty years is a great morale-booster.  

I’ve generated online press releases related to the book, which primarily has served to generate an increased web presence.  I haven’t actually detected many new stories that have evolved from these releases, however.

Sales have been steady, though nothing close to potential. 

What do I need to do?

I haven’t, by any means, exhausted all of the various tools and avenues that indie authors follow; as a first time author, I’m learning these skills as I forge ahead.  I’m only now exploring certain concepts, such as the “blog tour,” which allows authors to appear as “guests” on other blogs (either as writer or interviewee).  I’d like to explore the possibility of taking part in a reading of my book.

I’m looking for tie-in possibilities.   Though the book is a comedy, it’s offers a fresh take on the very current topic of bullying.  Alexander’s fear of bullying almost leads him to become a bully himself.  I’m looking for opportunities to build on that concept.  Some mental illness professionals and teachers have also indicated interest in the book’s message of tolerance.

Finally I need to keep writing. Establishing a presence as an author, and building interest in what I do, requires that I forge ahead.  Unbiased reaction to “Food Chain” has been good, and I’’m encouraged.  I’m already at work at the second book in this series, and have another, separate concept in the works after that.  This is a life-long ambition, and I remain excited to see how far I can carry it.

Your suggestions, as always, are appreciated.