How authors can use Email Marketing to grow their readership
Email Marketing for Authors
You’ve got the pen, the paper, and the talent to weave tales that take readers on wild, wonderful journeys. But here’s the thing: Writing a killer book is just one chapter of the story. The real plot twist? Getting that book into the hands of readers who’ll cherish it like a first edition. Enter email marketing - a not-so-secret weapon in your author toolkit that can turn casual readers into die-hard fans faster than you can say, “Once upon a time.”
Why should authors care about Email Marketing?
Just because it’s like having a direct hotline to your readers’ hearts (and inboxes). Imagine this: No more screaming into the social media void, hoping the algorithm gods are feeling generous. Instead, you’ve got a cozy little space in your reader’s inbox—a place where your words won’t be buried under memes, cat videos, or the latest TikTok dance craze.
Email Marketing isn’t just about blasting out newsletters; it’s about building a community. A tribe of readers who are so hooked on your stories, they’ll be lining up (virtually, of course) for your next release. Let’s get that email list popping!
Step 1: Build your email list
Before you can dazzle your readers with witty banter and exclusive content, you need an audience. And not just any audience - an engaged, book-loving, binge-reading crowd. Here’s how to lure them in:
Create a tempting Lead Magnet: Think of it as your reader’s golden ticket. Offer them something irresistible - like a sneak peek at your upcoming novel, a downloadable short story, or an exclusive discount on your latest release. They give you their email; you give them literary gold.
Make your website work for you: Your author website should be doing more than just looking pretty. Pop that email sign-up form front and center, where no one can miss it. Heck, throw it in a few blog posts and a pop-up for good measure.
Put social media to work: Got a loyal following on Twitter or Instagram? Give them a nudge to join your email list. After all, that’s where the real magic happens - where they get the VIP treatment they deserve.
Step 2: Engage your readers like the Pro you are
Now that you’ve got an email list, it’s time to woo your readers. But don’t just send them any old thing - give them the good stuff:
Peek behind the curtain: Readers love a good backstory. Share your writing process, character sketches, or the plot twist that almost didn’t make it to the final draft. Let them see the wizard behind the curtain.
Exclusive content (just for them): Make your subscribers feel special - because they are. Send them deleted scenes, bonus chapters, or early access to your latest release. They’ll eat it up like it’s the last slice of cake at a book launch party.
Get personal: Open up, share a piece of your writer’s soul. Whether it’s your journey to becoming an author, a personal story, or a behind-the-scenes look at your life, let them in. Readers who feel connected to you will stick around for the long haul.
Step 3: Sell your books
Launch like a Pro: Got a new book coming out? Cue the email series. Build anticipation with a countdown, sneak peeks, and a big, bold announcement on release day. Roll out the virtual red carpet.
Offer something they can’t refuse: Whether it’s a discount, a signed copy, or an invite to a virtual book launch, make your readers feel like they’re getting the VIP treatment.
Host virtual events: Readers love a good party - even if it’s online. Use your email list to invite them to virtual readings, Q&A sessions, or live discussions. It’s the literary equivalent of a meet-and-greet, minus the awkward small talk.
Ready to Hit Send?
There you have it - a not-so-secret formula to grow your readership through email marketing. It’s time to slide into those inboxes, charm your readers, and watch your fanbase grow. Who said being an author was all about sitting in a dark room with a typewriter? Now go forth and conquer the inbox - your readers are waiting.