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Book Signings Out Of Your Comfort Zone

Book Signings Out Of Your Comfort Zone
Posted By: Donna Banks on October 08, 2008

First let me apologize to Agnes for just getting around to answering her questions. I hope it is not too late. I stayed at the Clarion Suites, which was not too expensive, I believe after taxes it was around $80.00 a night. It was in Savannah, Georgia and the taxes are a bit hefty there. I made sure I was only 10 minutes from the mall where the book signing was going to be. I was in constant contact with Borders. Sending them advance pictures, bio, large marketing flyer, so that it could be placed in the window prior to my coming. My book is a little edgy, very sexual and therefore does not appeal to a certain population. But, I always tell people if you cannot appreciate the product appreciate the process. Sorry I digress. Because I am self published, most book stores are still a little skeptical about ordering books that they feel may not sell. I always give them a reference from Florida they can call to speak to about how my book signing went at their establishment. I request that they not get more than 30-40 books for the signing becuase that is about all you can do in the four (4) hour period without running out and placing them in peoples faces.

The key I found in Barnes and Nobles, Borders and Waldens is to be a the front door, just as they customers are walking in.



I have candy, picutes of myself, small give aways, like businee cards with the book picture on it and contact information on how to purchase the book. I engage in all conversation because conversation brings traffic, people like to know what you are talking about. I did my demographics also, because my book is more urban I wanted to make sure that the population in that area would be very diverse and it was. I am going back in December.

Be there early and greet everyone in the store that is working that day, they will help you sale your book. Lessons learned:

If the store does not have music, you might want to think about bringing a little player with jazz or light music playing at your table.
Never under estimate the power of yourself and what you believe you can sale. I ran out of books.
Never be afraid to leave your comfort zone. People that know you still don't think you are serious about your work because they remember who you use to be.
Always request a second date for signing, the book store will graciously give you one.

Also, I am going to stick with Clarion if I can to build a relationship and points or whatever other gadgets they have to make the stay better. Free breakfast, pool, workout room, huge beds and very clean rooms. (Well in Savannah they were.)

OK I wish this blog had spell check. : - )

Next stop Atlanta...before Christmas with God's Grace.

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agnes levine
Part-Time Teacher at Baltimore County Public Schools
BRAVO! Yes, this is great. I loe the tip about meeting everybody in the store!!! That was a first-time for me and I will definitely make that time in the schedule.

Now, did you really use that exercise room after the signing or ran for the pool? Smile.
Wednesday, October 8th 2008 at 8:44PM
Actually I drove up on Friday and came home on Saturday after the book signing. I had another commitment on Sunday. And yes, if I would have stayed it would have been the pool. I love the water. I guess you know that since I live in Florida. I enjoy the ocean and the pool. I cannot imagine living any where else now.
Wednesday, October 8th 2008 at 9:03PM
Hi Donna. Congratulations on your success. It sounds so exciting.
Friday, October 10th 2008 at 10:19AM
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