Episode description

In the final part of this two-part series, Becky is again interviewed by Franchesca Conner—a PR specialist at Weaving Influence. They take a deep dive into the nuances of marketing print-on-demand (POD) books, highlighting benefits, challenges, and strategies surrounding pre-order campaigns. 

With the rise of self-publishing and hybrid-publishing models, many authors face unique hurdles in timing and planning their book launches. Becky emphasizes the importance of pre-orders in establishing a book’s credibility, building anticipation for launch, securing retailer links, and facilitating planned marketing efforts. Becky also reveals some of the key reasons why an author of a POD book might choose not to make it available for pre-order, focusing primarily on first-week book sales and post-launch marketing efforts. 

During the episode, you’ll learn:  

• What is different about marketing POD books. 
• About IngramSpark—a book distribution platform where authors can set up their POD books for pre-order.
• How setting up a POD book for pre-order can benefit book awareness, sales, and marketing initiatives. 
• Why an author would want to focus more on the first week of sales for a POD book vs. pre-orders. 
• Whether or not it’s a good idea for an author with no pre-order period for their book to switch up their categories on Amazon. 
• How hybrid publishers typically approach pre-order campaigns for POD books and the limitations authors might face in that scenario. 

Don’t forget to check out our show notes, which include action steps and resources.

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