Hi all,

I have self-published two books, one soft cover (2002), and one hard cover (March, 2006). They both sell on my website store, both on Amazon, a few brick and mortars. I sell about 20 a week. I give talks whenever and wherever I can.

My questions:

1. Any tips on hiring a publisher, or anything that would help sell more books? Any systems that you've used that increase your exposure and sell more?

2. What are the best self-published forums that you've found online.

3. Has anyone purchased the marketing stuff from Arielle Ford. I'm thinking of putting down some moolah for her program here:
www.everythingyoushouldknow.com/af

Thanks all.

tuqqer

Hi there, Tuqqer - looks like you're doing very well at the moment with your 2 projects anyway so great news!

I've heard mixed reviews from people who've hired a PR/marketing bod (I assume that's what you mean??) - I know of one bloke for whom it worked brilliantly, but he was something in marketing himself anyway so probably didn't need the support! On the other hand, I've heard it can also be a severe waste of money and you're better off running your own campaign ...

The obvious thing is to keep up the local presence - bookshops/radio/papers in your area - but imagine you must be doing that anyway. I hadn't heard of Ford - will have to check her out.

Sorry I can't be of much help, but from what you say you're doing well by yourself!

Good luck!

A
xxx

Thanks, HollyB. My marketing, so far, is just the website, and prior customer's word-of-mouth. For the first book, I hired a firm to get me on radio talk shows. I did that for almost a year, about 4 times a month; I don't think I earned one sale from it, but I did get one listener who called me afterwards and got me on a cruise speaking gig. It was probably worth the entire year of radio interviews. I also did a lot of traveling across the country, speaking wherever I could. Again, the results probably covered just the cost of travel.

So, this is why I'm looking for a better system.

I'll report back if I find any one or any system.

tuqqer