Book Tour Tips (Part 1)

Don’t forget the breath mints & Chapstick.”

Those are the words I say to all of my clients who do book signings.

With all the yapping you’ll do, your lips will get dry, and you’ll be in close quarters with your fans so don’t forget the breath freshener.

I remember selling a 100+ copies of my book at my first convention and wish I had these tips:

So, whether you attend a convention, expo, trade show, conference etc. take some of these tips with you

SOMETHING WITH WHEELS:

You’ll be lugging around books, chairs, tables etc. and if you can bring a dolly and suitcase, your life will be much easier before and after these events. Bring something that has wheels to carry your stuff on.

Trust me.

READ BODY LANGUAGE:

If you sense someone doesn’t want to talk but just browse what you have on your table, then let them. No need to verbally stalk everyone, especially if their body language and energy is saying “leave me tf alone”

But no one should leave your table empty handed, which leads me to the next tip…

BE SALES MINDED:

Have a goal of selling X number of books every event, because this forces you to engage when necessary and read people. Give freebies and make the entire experience a fun one with whomever comes in contact with your table.

LIPBALM + BREATHMINT:

Your lips will get dry, and your breath may not be the freshest at these events and these tools will help you stay confident.

BANNER WITH OFFER:

I’ll say this as nice as possible….no one cares about your logo. Make your OFFER the centerpiece of your banner. Show how you can help your customer with your tables banner.

BOOK ON TABLE:

Make sure the book is upright on the table and not flat. Also have a few copies for readers and customers to sift through and checkout

CARD READER:

This isn’t 1998. You need a simple card reader to capture debit, credit etc. sales. Also bring some cash just in case.

CAPTURE EMAILS:

This is non-negotiable. You have to figure out a way to capture emails from your customers. Maybe a free eBook

Maybe a free book

Maybe to hear about future books

Maybe …. I don’t know but there are dozens of creative ways to capture emails at events.

Hopefully this helps somewhat, and I hope the best for you with your next book event.

Which tip was most helpful?

-Rahsaan