Whether you’ve just started writing, you’re racing toward the finish line, or your book’s been out for a while, there’s one truth that always holds: it’s never too early—or too late—to start promoting your book.
Here are 10 simple, strategic things you can do right now to build buzz and boost visibility:
- Design a Cover-in-Progress. Even if it’s a draft, create a mock-up of your book cover using tools like Canva or PowerPoint. Post it to build excitement, keep yourself motivated, and start gathering feedback. Bonus: when you reveal the final cover later, you’ve got another marketing moment!
- Update Your Email Signature. Add a tagline like “Author of the upcoming book…” or “Check out my new book!”—and include the cover image. Let every email you send be a subtle ad for your book.
- Collect Advance Praise. Reach out to 10+ influencers, colleagues, clients, or fans and ask for short, impactful testimonials. Use them in your book, on your website, in your launch campaign, or even on the back cover.
- Write Your Book Summary—Then Use It. Craft a compelling summary (with a little help from AI if needed), and turn it into a Speaker One-Sheet. Don’t wait for publication—use this summary now to book speaking gigs months in advance.
- Audit Your Online Presence. Review your website, bios, social media profiles, speaker intro, and newsletter. Make sure your book is mentioned everywhere your name appears.
- Build Your Media List. Gather contact info for your local newspaper, alumni magazine, and professional organizations. Then brainstorm niche outlets that would love to hear about your topic.
- Mine Your Manuscript for Content. As you write, highlight stand-alone sections that could become blog posts or articles. Include a note: “Excerpted from my upcoming book…” It builds credibility and anticipation.
- Tap into Timely Topics. Use “newsjacking” by connecting your book’s topic to trending headlines. A timely blog or LinkedIn post can attract fresh eyeballs and media attention.
- Start Teasing on Social Media. Share quotes, stories, stats, or sneak peeks related to your book’s theme. Use visuals—including your evolving cover art—for extra impact.
- Turn Your Book into a Talk. Create a presentation based on your book’s content. It could be a keynote, webinar, workshop, or book club session. Market it now—even before the book is finished.
Your book is more than a product—it’s a platform. And the sooner you start treating it that way, the faster you’ll grow your impact and visibility.