Appearances Prior To Your Book's Release

Let's say you've been asked to speak in front of a group of 100+ and your book is not yet available. What should you do? Turn down the speaking engagement or go ahead?

Ideally, appearances should take place at the time of the books' release (the pub window); however, sometimes things don’t work out that way.  To make the best of the situation, have your publisher create postcards, bookmarks or fliers that you can make available to events' attendees.  At least this will plant the seed and act as a reminder to your audience that you have a book coming out and provide them with the information necessary to order your book.  The publisher can also provide you with bookplates (adhesive backed signature cards) that you can pre-sign and distribute to the attendees if they pre-purchase a book through their local bookstore.

Approach the local bookstore and invite them to take advantage of promoting your book to these attendees by providing a percentage off coupon.  Bookstores are always looking for ways to increase book sales and their customer base.

 Ask the hosting venue to maintain a link on their website to your website where their client or membership base will be reminded to purchase your book.  Some venues may be able to pass along the list of attendees from your lecture enabling you to directly communicate with them about the release and purchase of your book.