NOTE: Since many words in this article are likely to trigger sp ^ m filters, we have disguised them with symbols (eg, sp ^ m). This will ensure a higher delivery rate if you use this article in your e-zine.
If you sell your book online, you are virtually guaranteed to increase sales by publishing an email newsletter or “e-zine.”
Why? Well, for starters, it’s a great way to give readers a taste of your expertise and style along with samples of your content. This ensures that they will become familiar with you, trust you, and hopefully purchase your book when they are ready to learn more.
Plus, it’s a great way to * capture prospects * who aren’t ready to buy your book when they visit your site, but are still interested in the information you have to share.
Based on my own experience marketing my manual, ‘Boost Your Business With Your Own E-zine,’ here are 7 ways to help increase book sales using an email newsletter.
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First thing: Encourage e-zine SIGNUPS on your website where you promote your book.
Before you even start posting, start collecting email addresses. Place a registration form in many places on your site to invite visitors to subscribe to your free e-zine. This way, if a visitor isn’t interested in buying your book today, they can sign up for your free e-zine. Now you haven’t missed it, and you’ll learn even * more * about your book if you subscribe. E-zine publishers also report EXCELLENT registration results using pop-up and underlay boxes on their websites. Examples: On my main site, http://www.ezinequeen.com, I include a registration form on EVERY page, as well as a pop-up box. On my book sale site, [http://www.ezinequeen.com/tutorial], I have a pop-up box that appears once the main window closes. Remember: NEVER enroll anyone without their permission! -
Include EXTRACTS and / or TIPS from your book in your e-zine.
These can be direct excerpts or short tips that summarize some of your content. Review your book and highlight individual tips or small sections that might be valid on their own. Don’t give away the whole store! For example, giving your readers a full chapter of your book in every issue is over the top. In addition to pulling material straight from your book, try a few other twists on your topic, such as a top 10 tips list, a how-to article, a resource list, or a review of a trend in the industry. Example: One of my clients, a life coach, has a hardcover book that presents 101 tips on how to attract what you want in life. Each issue of his weekly e-zine features one of those tips, along with a brief explanation of how to implement it. -
Right after your article, make a quick BLURB PROMO that blatantly plugs your book.
Why right after the article and before anything else? If someone reads your article / tip and says to themselves, “Wow, that was great information,” they’ll be ready to hear what else you have to share on that topic. Really pump up and have fun with it. Example: “Did you like today’s article? If you liked it, you’ll LOVE my new book, ‘Double Your Business in Six Months.’ It’s packed with over 257 great ideas to help you grow your business FAST. [Web address here]. You can start using my best tips in minutes! “ -
In each issue, offer a TESTIMONIAL from one of your book buyers.
Let your readers know that many other people like them ARE buying your book and they LOVE it. Idea: Create a small section in your e-zine for this purpose. In each issue, include a short testimonial from one of your readers here. Example: “What ‘Beauty Blastoff’ Readers Say:” I can’t tell you how much your book has helped me improve my appearance. Thanks to your advice, I have lost 20 pounds, lightened my skin, and got rid of all my unwanted hair. Now my rich ex-husband even wants me back. You are a saint! ‘”- Suzy Smitten, Los Angeles, California. -
Offer your readers a SPECIAL DISCOUNT for a limited time.
Make your readers feel special by offering them a special discount on your book whenever you can. For the best response rates, make it a limited-time offer to give a sense of urgency. I did this with my manual when it first came out and got great results. Example: “Subscribers only: Buy my book before midnight this Friday and receive a 20% discount!” If you can’t give your subscribers a discount, offer them something else to make them feel special, like a bonus report or free phone consultation with their purchase. -
Mention your book in as many other places as possible in your e-zine.
Bottom line: the more you mention your book, the better your chances of being bought. While your opportunities are endless, here are some ideas to get you started:
- in your header (this is where you give the reader information about your post, usually at the top).
- in the editor’s or editor’s note (this is where you give your readers a personal note).
- in your article (if you mention a certain point that you cover wonderfully in your book, say so!)
You know what a signature (or “sig”) file is, right? It’s that little blurb with contact information that you can automatically insert at the bottom of every email you send. In addition to your obvious contact information, quickly connect your book AND e-zine.
Why? Well, if you just advertise your book, some people will read your signature file and think, “That’s great, but I don’t want to buy anything right now.” BUT if you advertise your FREE e-zine, chances are they will take advantage of your offer. THEN you have them on your list.
Example: Here’s what I have at the END of my signature file, after my contact information: “INCREASE BUSINESS by publishing your own email newsletter! Learn how now: sign up for free tips at http: / / www.ezinequeen.com “.
(c) 2000-2003 Alexandria K. Brown. All rights reserved.
