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Book fairs and literary events are increasingly popular forums for authors to meet readers and publicize their books. Whether produced by civic organizations, tourism bureaus or publishing industry groups, book festivals have the potential to bring authors face-to-face with thousands of readers and consumers. Authors shouldn't pass up these valuable opportunities to publicize their titles.
But talking to total strangers or "working the crowd" can be intimidating, even for seasoned authors. Fortunately, networking is a skill that can be learned with some determination and, most importantly, passion about your work. Your excitement and interest in your book's subject will be contagious.
Gather Your Publicity Toolkit
Speaking to the public can be easier if you have something to show people. Promotional postcards, which you can make yourself with a home computer and inkjet printer, are a simple tool to open up a dialog. Once you hand someone something--whether it's a postcard, a bookmark, sticker or other promotional item--you have their attention.
In addition to your hand-outs, have copies of your book with you to sell. The best-case scenario is when you are able to convince a consumer to buy your book on the spot. You'll want to be prepared with copies (and some change in small bills in case you sell a few).
If you have a table at an event (more on tabling below), bring signage. You don't need to buy an expensive vinyl banner, but do make a large sign with, at a minimum, your name and the title of your book. You might also consider having a poster of your book's jacket professionally printed and mounted on foam-core, which you could then display on an easel. Such a poster does add to your expenses, but you can reuse it at subsequent events.
Source: suite101.com
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