Writer Services Holiday Card 2019

Now that you’re seriously considering reaching out to book clubs to promote your book, it’s important to know how to make your book club appearance or call-in a success. Here are some tips to help you facilitate a discussion that book club members will enjoy:

• Set expectations with the organizer. Let the organizer know how much time you have to speak, and make sure you arrive or call in on time.
• Be prepared. Plan to talk casually about how you got the idea to write your book, or how you became a writer. Share some anecdotes and be ready to answer questions.
• Be engaging. Smile when you speak, and include some humor if possible. Keep your talk short and concise.
• Expect awkward silences. Even the most well-organized conversations can have lulls. Be prepared to fill in gaps with anecdotes to keep the conversation going.
• Be open to critique. Book club members may be critical of your writing or you as a person. Stay patient, gracious, and compassionate. Conducting yourself with poise and dignity will serve you well in the long run.
• Upsell gently. Let listeners know about other opportunities to connect with you, such as your website or social media profiles. Talk about your next book or any other available works.
• Ask for help. Let listeners know that you appreciate book recommendations and would love to connect with other book clubs and readers.
• Send a thank-you note. A few days after the event, send a thank-you note to the organizer to show your appreciation for their time and support.

By following these tips, you can make your book club appearance or call-in a success and generate interest in your book among readers.

There’s more you can learn about this, so come back regularly to find more awesome information that will set you apart from your competition.