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Rob Eagar

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Jan 01 2010

Book Marketing Question: How big should an author’s platform numbers be?

Michael asks, “I’m in the process of redesigning my website and creating a social media marketing campaign as a first step toward submitting a manuscript to an agent. It is my assumption that my website and web presence (YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, etc.) will be my most powerful medium for marketing my non-fiction, self-help book. Is this correct? I am also assuming that the larger the traffic and the larger my email list the more interest we will receive from agents and publishers. Are there any particular numbers I should reach before submitting to an agent?”

Thanks for your question, Michael. Your assumptions are on the right track. Agents and publishers are feverishly looking for authors who can bring a large platform to the table. A large platform usually means more guaranteed book sales and less risk for the publishers.

Thus, your amount of confirmed website traffic, social media followers, and newsletter subscribers gives definition to the reality of your author platform and ability to help sell books. As for exact numbers, that’s a tough call to make. Every agent and publisher has different definitions of a “large platform.”

I think a good number to shoot for is around 5,000 people on a newsletter list, monthly blog readers, and social media followers. Most non-fiction books need to sell 5,000 – 10,000 books for the publisher to break-even. So, if you can show that you help sell a large chunk of that amount, then you’re more appealing to agents and publishers.

Social media is a great way to market books. However, don’t forget the traditional face-to-face ways, such as public speaking and media interviews. A good marketing plan should feature a balanced approach of online and offline marketing tactics.

Frankly, I’ve yet to see social media show better marketing results than consistent public speaking and major radio/TV appearances. But, that will change with time.

Per your website, make sure it includes the key book marketing elements. I’ve got a free resource for authors at this link: www.startawildfire.com/authorwebsite.html

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Written by Rob Eagar · Categorized: Book Marketing Questions

About Rob Eagar

Rob Eagar is the founder of WildFire Marketing, a consulting practice that helps authors and publishers sell more books and spread their message like wildfire. He is one of the rare consultants to help both fiction and nonfiction books hit The New York Times bestsellers list. Rob has consulted with numerous publishers and trained over 1,000 authors. He is the creator of The Author's Guide Series, a comprehensive collection of resources that teaches authors how to sell more books. Find out more at: WildFire Marketing and follow Rob on Twitter.

Publishing Predictions for 2023

January 1, 2023 Posted by Rob Eagar

As we enter 2023, let’s look ahead to the major issues that will affect authors and publishers. Here are five predictions that deserve your attention…

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