admin Posted on 6:52 pm

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 physical bookstore, having a cup of coffee to sit down and read some of their favorite books before making a purchase decision.

However, mass bookstores are not always the stores of choice for today’s book shopper. One of the reasons is the closure of chains like Borders. Second, many prefer to shop at independent stores.

great opportunity

In the age 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 pique the interest of young readers, small workshops, or fundraisers for local charities, independent bookstores are in a great position to create an engaging 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 triple killer blow: competition from big brick-and-mortar chains like Barnes & Noble and Borders, rising e-book sales, and the 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 of independent stores.

Not only was there an increase in the number of stores, there was also an increase in the sales and profits of the independents.

Best of all, many independent owners have become increasingly willing to work with self-published authors by creating a supportive environment for their works.

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 high-end, self-published published authors would love to sell in bookstores, but have no idea how to get into stores.

First, take the time to learn as much as you can about the challenges and opportunities for independent homeowners. Next, make a plan to break into independent stores. Third, realize that the more visible you are to independent owners, the better. Visibility should be in person, on social media, and through content marketing.

Authors are considered influencers. As an influencer, visibility gives you more influence.

With everything available online, there is no excuse for an author not to have a strong presence.

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 a landlord 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. Be sure to make the most of riding the wave.

Get your books from independent stores

There are many ways to sell books. With everything available online, some authors think this is the only way. However, other authors are doing incredibly well with their books in bookstores.

Which one is for you?

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