Important Author's Tool: The Business Card

Sample Card

When it comes to marketing your books, don't overlook an important promotional item:  The Business Card. It's one of an author's most important tools and they're not at all expensive to have printed.

You are only limited by your imagination, but there are a few important things you should include on your card.  You can also use the back of the card.  I usually do.

Your Website and URL
A Picture of Your Books
Your Photo
Name and Address
Email
Phone Number

I've sold a lot of books using my business card. There are so many uses for it. I'll share some of my favorites, but I'm sure you will come up with many other ways, besides these.  You are only limited by your imagination.

Remember, we're in the business of selling books:

* Bulletin boards in stores and businesses you frequent. Thumbtack your card there with the others.

* While sitting in waiting rooms, on a plane, train, or bus, or any time you're talking to people. Hand them a card while you're introducing yourself.

* At gatherings, class reunions, or while networking with your 'real' job. Hand people both of your business cards.

* Tuck a few inside a book you've sold for the buyer to pass along to their friends.

* Ask to leave a small stack on the counter at your public library. Libraries love local authors ... and so do people who come into the library. They take the cards, trust me.

* If your book is a children's book, strike up a conversation when see a mother with children. Introduce yourself and hand her a card (and maybe more to give to friends).

* Again, for children's authors, any time you meet a teacher, a principal, or school librarian, give them your card.  You might just get a school visit as a result.

* Ask to leave a stack of business cards on the counter with your mechanic, where you take your car, your hairdresser, or even at the gym.

* Buy a small business card holder, have it full of cards for the table beside you at book signings, school visits, or other speaking engagements. Maybe someone won't buy your book that day, but when they take a business card, it's an excellent reminder of your book for later, when birthdays and the holidays come around.

Here's one of my personal favorites.  I've sold a lot of books this way:

* Restaurants. When the check comes after dinner, write "Thank you" on one of your cards and then sign it. If possible, put the name of the waiter or waitress on the card to personalize it. Then leave your card, along with the tip, for your waiter, or waitress.

Often, they will follow me to the door, asking more about my books, wanting to shake my hand, or even to ask for more cards for the rest of the staff.

* The above also applies to anyone giving you good service, i.e., a barber, hairstylist, or the clerk in a department store.

Just remember to always write "Thank You!" and sign your card. Remember, it's an autograph, too.

People love meeting authors.  Use this to your advantage. Have those business cards in your pocket, or purse, and be ready to pass them out. You'll sell more books, I promise.

Here are two companies I've used and they are both very good, with fast delivery:

Moo.com

Vista Print



“A writer soon learns that easy to read is hard to write.” ~CJ Heck