Authors: Should you be selling in bookstores?
With the convenience of shopping from the couch or the office, why would anyone take the time to go to a traditional bookstore? Actually, there are many reasons.
Readers of all ages love the experience of walking into a brick-and-mortar bookstore, grabbing a cup of coffee, sitting down, and reading some of their favorite books before making a purchase decision.
However, mass bookstores are not always the stores of choice for today’s book buyer. One of the reasons is the closure of chains like Borders. Second, many prefer to shop at independent stores.
great opportunity
In the era of online shopping and e-books, new technologies offer independent bookstores a lifeline. Without the limitations of big chains and big box stores, independents can create a much more memorable experience for book buyers.
Whether it’s a book signing for a local author, regular events to build interest for young readers, small workshops, or fundraisers for local charities, independent bookstores are in a great position to create an experience for communities of all sizes.
According to the Christian Science Monitor, “Eight years ago, independent bookstores were supposed to be ancient history, thanks to a deadly triple whammy: competition from big brick-and-mortar chains like Barnes & Noble and Borders, rising e-book sales, and growth of the indomitable book giant, Amazon”.
shocking but true
What surprised many avid readers was the closure of giant stores like Borders while we saw a rise in independent stores.
Not only was there an increase in the number of stores, there was also an increase in sales and profits for independents.
Best of all, many freelancers have become increasingly willing to work with self-published authors by creating a supportive environment for their work.
The resurgence of independent bookstores goes hand in hand with the “buy local” movement. Book buyers are taking control of where they buy books by choosing to spend locally. Money talks!
What authors need to know about independent stores
Many self-published and high-end published authors would love to sell in bookstores, but have no idea how to break into the stores.
First, take the time to learn all you can about the challenges and opportunities for independent homeowners. Next, draw up a plan to break into independent stores. Third, realize that the more visible you are to independent owners, the better. Visibility must be in person, on social networks and through content marketing.
The authors are considered influencers. As an influencer, visibility gives you more influence.
With everything that’s available online, there’s no excuse for an author not to have a strong presence.
Get to know your local India
It has often been said, “It’s not what you know. It’s who you know.” This is certainly true for independent bookstore owners. You have a better chance of walking into a local store if you are a regular customer. After all, if the owner knows you’re loyal to independent stores, there’s a much better chance of securing their support for your book sales.
help with promotions
One of the best ways to gain the full support of a store owner is to participate in promotions. After all, one of the things the owner wants is foot traffic. If you are instrumental in getting people through the door, you are generating more revenue for the store owner.
request presentations
No doubt the store owner knows store owners in other markets. The best time to ask for introductions is after a successful book signing. Make sure you get the most out of riding the wave.
Get your books at independent stores
There are many ways to sell books. With everything that is available online, some authors think that this is the only way. However, other authors are doing incredibly well with their books in bookstores.
Which one is for you?