The recent self-publishing conference run by the Alliance of Independent Authors had an emphasis on technology this fall, and there’s good reason for that: there’s a lot of great tech out there that can make writing, editing, publishing, and promoting a whole lot easier and more accessible for authors!
Listing every resource out there is more than I could write in a single article, so let’s narrow the focus. Here are seven of the top tech-based resources for marketing your books.
1. Hootsuite
Hootsuite is an old favorite of mine (largely because of how easy it is--and the fact that to a point, it’s free to use). Hootsuite allows you to manage multiple Twitter accounts and monitor different hashtags and other accounts. This is a great way to keep up with what’s trending in the moment and engage with other Tweeters in real time.
2. BookBub
BookBub has become one of the biggest names in indie book marketing. Through its active mailing list and tantalizing draw to readers, you can break into bestselling stardom through buying a promotion. A word of caution: BookBub has been increasingly hard to break into and might not be a good fit if you’re not already popular.
3. Prolific Works
Formerly known as Instafreebie, Prolific Works is a book giveaway site that is free to sign up for. You can bundle your book with others for an event or use it on your own to pitch a fun giveaway with readers--growing your audience and boosting your fan base while having a good time.
4. Bookfunnel
Bookfunnel Is another book giveaway service, this one with slightly different offerings. Check and compare this with Prolific Works to decide which is a better fit for your book and your readership.
5. Pubvendo
Pubvendo is a digital marketing agency that works with both writers and publishers, giving them a lot of sway in the book marketing field. While relatively new to the scene, Pubvendo’s clients brag huge and easily measurable results, including higher click-through rates and more sales. If you want to transform your book into its full potential, this is a great place to look.
6. Prestizon
Prestizon is a service that automates your Kindle marketing. This is an advanced, dynamic service and best paired with your book if you plan to spend at least several hundred dollars advertising on Amazon to make sales. With Prestizon, you can measure different techniques, learn what keywords your readers are using, and optimize your book for the best possible success.
7. Fanpage Karma
Closing again with social media, Fanpage Karma gives you all the data you could ever ask for when you allow it to analyze your page. Learn when to post, what to say, and how to make your profile as engaging as possible.
What’s your favorite book marketing resource? Where do you turn when you need a social boost? Please share in the comments below, and I look forward to the discussion.