First Issue

Dean Hua of Sachi Studio recently posted a great article on how authors can use Facebook to promote their books. A shortened version of his 8-point tip list appears below. For the full article, visit Dean’s blog.

1. Create a “page” for your book. A page is a mini-site on Facebook that is dedicated to the product or service you are selling. You can post videos, messages, pictures, and links. Other Facebook users can click a button to become a “fan” of the page, and your page then shows up in their profiles.
2. Create a group around the topic of your book. For example, if your book is about wealth management, create a group that discusses wealth management tips and strategies.
3. Import your blog entries into your Facebook notes. This helps you capture a new readership base and adds more interactivity to your Facebook presence.
4. Keep your profile dynamic. Don’t just create a Facebook account, add 5 friends, and then wither away. Update your status regularly with news about your book or business. Post photos – think networking events, book signings, talks, conventions, and more. Answer wall messages and emails to be sociable (it is social media, after all) and stoke the fires of conversation.
5. Incentivize your outreach strategies. A few suggested prizes include a free, signed copy of your book, a special edition of your book, a free consultation, or anything that may be appropriate. Offering prizes and incentives helps expedite word of mouth.
6. Befriend members who read your book. Do a search for members who list your book as one of their favorites. This is one of the more time-consuming outreach initiatives that you’ll develop. If you have a lot of members listed, look for ways to filter down the list and add only those who are most important. Look for influencers.
7. Create events. Facebook allows you to create events that you may be hosting such as a book tour or speaking engagement. Create these events and invite your friends. But don’t just stop there. Encourage your friends to spread the word by inviting their friends to the event on Facebook as well.
8. Add a badge to your website and blog. Facebook allows you to create a badge (a mini-banner) that lets your website visitors know you have a Facebook profile. This makes it easy for visitors to find you and encourages them to connect with you.

Example of a Facebook badge