On March 10th, Amazon quietly changed their policies to allow traditionally-published authors to buy Amazon ads for their books. Why is this change a big deal?
In the past, only publishing houses and self-published authors who used Amazon’s KDP platform could buy ads to reach readers. Traditionally-published authors, such as John Grisham or Brene Brown, couldn’t access this marketing tool. Crazy, right? Finally, that barrier is gone.
What does this news mean for the publishing industry?
Previously, traditionally-published authors had to rely on their publishers to buy Amazon ads and hope that company knew how to run effective campaigns. In addition, traditional authors had to watch their publisher’s limited budget halt advertising soon after the initial book launch was over.
Meanwhile, self-published authors have been running unlimited amounts of Amazon ads to gain exposure with shoppers. For instance, I’ve coached indie authors who spend $2,000 – $5,000 per month on Amazon ads and see good results.
Amazon’s policy change means almost every type of author can now access this powerful advertising system.
The playing field for authors is more level than ever.
Traditional authors may purchase Amazon ads simply by creating a free Author Central account, claim the books they’ve written, and then use Author Central as a bridge to set up an advertising account.
You can choose from a diverse suite of self-service ads, including Sponsored Product Ads, Sponsored Brand Ads, and Lockscreen Ads that appear on Kindle devices.
Amazon ads are based on a pay-per-click (PPC) system, which means you only pay when someone clicks on your ad to learn more about your book. This approach is superior to Facebook’s pay-per-impression (PPI) policy, which charges by the view even if readers aren’t interested in your ad.
Amazon ads enable authors to influence readers in the middle of the buying process. It’s the most direct way to promote your entire catalog of books to engage existing readers, build brand awareness, reach new audiences, and drive sales. Within minutes, anyone can create a campaign, even if you’ve never advertised before.
How do Amazon ads affect traditional authors?
Traditionally-published authors may now buy Amazon ads. But, that doesn’t mean this new opportunity is free of challenges. Here’s why:
1. Most traditional authors only make around a $1.00 royalty per book sold.
2. Bid prices for a click on an Amazon ad can cost $1.00 or more.
3. It can take several clicks on an ad to produce one sale.
When you do the math, it’s nearly impossible for a traditional author to make a profit from Amazon ads. Most royalty rates are too low to withstand the advertising expense.
However, many traditional authors aren’t concerned about turning a profit from Amazon ads for the following reasons:
1. Authors who have other streams of lucrative revenue
2. Authors who desire exposure more than they desire profit
3. Authors who advertise the first book of a series to gain long-term readers
Keep in mind, though, buying Amazon ads doesn’t mean readers will buy your books. There are best practices that must be followed in order to maximize exposure and generate profit from a campaign.
That’s why I created Mastering Amazon for Authors.
Amazon offers very little training to navigate their advertising platform. Worse, their “Help” system is vague and creates more confusion than clarity.
Fortunately, you don’t have to be stymied by Amazon’s bland customer service. I’ve already created an online course that explains everything you need to know. Watch customized video tutorials that reveal step-by-step how to create winning ads. With my online instruction, you will quickly learn how to:
• Determine which ad types are right for you
• Drive the perfect readers directly to your books
• Close more sales with convincing ads
• Understand when and how to increase your ad budgets
• Maximize profitability of your ad campaigns
• Buy international ads in Europe, Canada, and Australia
Mastering Amazon for Authors is the most up-to-date video course that teaches authors how to sell more books on Amazon.
Over 700 authors have already purchased the instruction and responded with overwhelmingly positive feedback.
You will you learn how to create effective ads. Plus, Mastering Amazon for Authors will show you how to:
• Convert more sales when readers see your book on Amazon
• Secure more customer reviews that persuade readers to buy
• Self-publish e-books and print books for free with Amazon KDP
• Get on a Top 100 List and let Amazon do the marketing for you
• Build your author email list for free using Amazon’s huge audience
Most importantly, you will learn how to sell more books on Amazon!
If you’re a traditionally-published author, take advantage of the powerful advertising system that publishers and indie authors have been using for years.
Use this new opportunity to try Amazon ads and take greater control over your book sales.
Click here to enroll in Mastering Amazon for Authors today.
