Be prepared when you approach someone about buying your book and/or scheduling a book-signing. Dress appropriately and bring your calendar, invoices, and clean copies of your a course in miracles. When an opportunity arises, you need to be ready to capitalize on it. Be sure to let the manager know if you have any upcoming media appearances or events that will help the bookstore sell more copies of your books.
- Sell Your Book: Smile, introduce yourself, and talk about the features and benefits of your book. What value does your book provide? Entertainment? A great plot twist? The secret to success in business? Emotional support? Don’t expect those in line or bystanders to understand what your book offers if you can’t articulate it yourself. Bookstore patrons are often shy, so you need to be able to start and carry the conversation. Ask passersby what they like to read to engage them in discussion.
- Be Open to Opportunities: Stay alert for speaking engagements and other opportunities that could arise as a result of your book-signing. Perhaps an attendee will want to buy extra copies of your book for their employees or for members of their church group. You never know who the person in front of you is or who they might know –
- Make It Count: The book-signing needs to benefit your host in order for you to be invited back, so make the event pleasant and, if possible, profitable. Promote the event beforehand. During the signing, speak positively about the store as much as about your book and yourself. Stay flexible and upbeat throughout the signing, and send a note of thanks afterwards.