Book tours can be a fun and exciting part of the publishing experience. It’s not only a chance to get your work out there, but to promote yourself to your target audience, including fans and people who might not otherwise have read your novel.
Essentially, book tours are marketing events, but they’re also great for connecting with readers when you plan them the right way. A book tour can have a big impact on the success of your book and can set the tone for how well your future publications do.
Understanding how to plan a book tour that helps you engage with readers while maximizing exposure and sales is important, but it’s just as crucial to be able to overcome the challenges – both predictable and unexpected.
So, how can you successfully navigate a book tour, no matter where you are in your career?
Plan the Right Locations
If you’re planning a DIY book tour, you might be tempted to hit some hot spots like big cities with lots of little book shops. But, if you’re a new author or you aren’t sure how popular your book will be yet, your tour should play it safe – at least for the first leg.
As you’re considering where you want to go, think about where you have friends and family throughout the country. If you book those locations on your tour, you’ll have people in your corner who can promote you ahead of time. They’ll bring friends of their own and make sure you have a good audience. Plus, you might be able to stay with those people, so you can save money on lodging in those cities!
If you are new to the world of publishing, it can also be helpful to team up with another writer – especially someone who has a bit more experience and notoriety. It’s a great way to get your foot in the door, attract new readers, and learn more about the touring experience without putting all of the weight on your shoulders.
Finally, don’t be afraid to think outside the bookstore. While most authors tend to do signings and readings in bookshops, you might get more attention at a unique location that makes sense for your book. If you do have family or friends in a particular area, ask if they might open up their home for a small, intimate reading and signing. You could provide snacks and wine and make a real event out of it.
No matter where you’re going, market yourself on social media as much as possible. Make sure you have profiles on major platforms and keep your fans and readers updated so they can follow you, literally and figuratively.
Figure Out Finances
If you’re planning a book tour by yourself, you’re also probably going to end up funding much of it by yourself. That’s not uncommon for indie authors and it’s very doable with a bit of planning.
First, make sure you’ve created a budget for the tour. This will give you a starting point to look back on and will help you keep from overspending. Find ways to save money when you’re traveling, especially if you’re touring on the road. That might include small tips like:
- Installing a gas app to tell you where the cheapest locations are;
- Buying and making your own food instead of dining out;
- Making sure your vehicle is well-maintained.
It’s also a good rule of thumb to be strategic about what you charge to a credit card. Cards can be useful for their convenience, but it’s easy to forget how much you’re spending until your bill comes. Some credit cards can actually be beneficial as they give you reward points or cash back. However, even if that’s the case, there are some things you should avoid charging a card, including cash advances and gift cards.
Take Care of Yourself
From promoting yourself both online and in-person, to traveling by car or plane, to being away from family and friends for a long period of time, there’s no question that a book tour can be exhausting. While it can also be very rewarding, it can take a toll on your well-being if you don’t prioritize self-care.
Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. One of the best things you can do is to keep a regular routine for yourself each day. It could include waking up around the same time, eating healthy meals, exercising, journaling, and meditating. These simple practices can make a big difference in your mental and physical health. They can also keep you energized and inspired to keep writing.
Speaking of which, having a writing routine on the road is also important. It will help to keep your creative juices flowing, and being in different locations every day is a great way to stay inspired. Having a designated place to write will help to make it a habit, so consider transforming your car or truck into a practical office or workplace. Optimize it with WiFi, have a power supply, and consider ergonomics if you’re going to be sitting and writing for long stretches of time. With a few upgrades and changes, you can write anytime and anywhere while you’re on tour.
If you’re feeling intimidated or nervous about going out on a book tour, especially for the first time, keep these tips in mind. You might find that you have more loyal readers than you thought, and engaging with them in person is a great way to boost your career and foster a successful future.
Amanda Winstead is a writer from the Portland area with a background in communications and a passion for telling stories. Along with writing she enjoys traveling, reading, working out, and going to concerts. If you want to follow her writing journey, or even just say hi you can find her on Twitter.
