Penny C. Sansevieri's Blog

Reading Time: 5 minuteshttps://www.buzzsprout.com/664939/episodes/17775809-the-great-author-central-lockout-amazon-s-latest-frustration.mp3

Amazon has recently introduced a troubling barrier for authors trying to manage their presence on Author Central. Many writers now get error messages claiming they need “publisher permission” to edit fields—even when they self-publish. These locked fields include vital marketing spaces like “From the Author,” “About the Author,” and alternate back-cover copy—places where your voice, keywords, and messaging matter most. In this post, we’ll walk you through effective Amazon Author Central tips for pushing past these restrictions, recovering your control, and optimizing every field once you’re back in.

What’s Going Wrong — And Why It Matters

The core issue: instead of restricting just a single field (like editorial reviews), Amazon’s system is locking authors out of entire pages. That means you can’t even reach the sections you need to update. These locked areas often include: From the Author; About the Author; From the Inside Flap / Alternate Back Cover Copy; Editorial Reviews. These aren’t small details. They’re spaces where you can embed targeted language, enrich your narrative, and connect with potential readers. Losing them is like losing part of your sales funnel. What’s more frustrating is that Amazon seems to be giving contradictory explanations. Some authors are told to “contact your publisher,” while publishers admit they cannot access these fields either. This leaves authors stranded, unable to make changes that directly influence discoverability and conversion.

Why These Fields Are Worth Fighting For

Every one of those sections offers prime real estate on your Amazon page. They matter because they allow you to add extra keywords beyond your main description, they give you space to tell your story and connect with readers personally, they build credibility and trust with browsers, and they let you highlight bonus hooks or copy that sets your book apart. For example, an “About the Author” section that references your expertise can make a nonfiction title more persuasive, while “From the Inside Flap” content that includes genre-specific keywords can help a novel appear in more searches. Research shows that 79% of shoppers say they are more likely to buy from brands they trust. Translating that to books, when readers see more about you and your voice, it increases their comfort level with clicking “buy now.” Losing access to these fields cuts away a crucial opportunity to build that trust.

Step-by-Step Recovery Plan

If you’ve been locked out, here’s what works: 1) Document the error. Take screenshots of the message and list the fields you can’t access. This creates a paper trail and gives you evidence if Amazon support needs clarification. 2) Create a content file. Draft all the text for each section (From the Author, About the Author, etc.) in a Word doc. Amazon will paste this content in exactly as provided, and since they won’t proofread it, make sure it’s error-free. 3) Submit a support ticket. Use firm, clear language: “This is a known issue. I cannot access my Author Central fields. Please upload the attached content exactly as given.” Avoid fluff or pleasantries—direct requests get faster responses. 4) Request confirmation. Ask Amazon to notify you when the content is live. Without this step, your changes might be added without notice, or not at all. 5) Monitor your page. Check that the content appears correctly and wasn’t truncated. Sometimes Amazon introduces odd spacing or formatting that you may want to correct later. 6) Keep backups. Always save local copies of your Author Central content in case the issue reoccurs. Many authors have reported that once they used this exact language, Amazon fixed the issue within 24–48 hours. Persistence is key.

Additional Amazon Author Central Tips

Beyond troubleshooting glitches, there are proactive ways to maximize Author Central. Always keep a full backup of your Author Central content offline so you can re-upload quickly. React immediately when glitches appear—delays can mean lost visibility, especially during launch periods. Watch for interface changes, as fields sometimes shift locations instead of being removed. And most importantly, remember that Author Central is only one part of your platform. Use your website and newsletter as your foundation so you’re never fully dependent on Amazon. In fact, pairing optimized Amazon fields with a robust email list creates a strong funnel: Amazon boosts visibility, your newsletter builds trust, and together they drive sales.

Optimizing Each Section for Visibility and Conversion

Here’s a deeper look at how to make each Author Central section work harder: From the Author: Use this to speak directly to readers, share your passion, and include natural keyword phrases. Example: “In this gripping historical mystery, I drew from years of research into 18th century London crime scenes…” About the Author: Showcase your credibility. For nonfiction, highlight credentials and experience. For fiction, spotlight achievements, writing influences, or what inspires your work. Add subtle keywords tied to your genre. From the Inside Flap / Back Cover Copy: Repurpose your strongest marketing copy here. This section is especially useful for alternate versions of your blurb with slightly different angles or keyword focus. Editorial Reviews: If you have endorsements or reviews from credible sources, use them here. Even though Amazon often claims this is publisher-controlled, keep pressing support if you can’t access it. Each section adds another layer of trust and discoverability, so approach them strategically.

Industry Data and Author Experience

Data shows why this matters. A survey of independent authors revealed that 38% have encountered platform glitches or errors when updating metadata. At the same time, Amazon remains the dominant force in book sales, accounting for an estimated 68% of all U.S. print and ebook purchases. With numbers like that, even small optimizations on your Amazon page can lead to significant results. Marketing studies also show that adding richer product information can increase conversion rates by up to 30%, proving that those extra fields matter.

Is This a Sign of Bigger Amazon Changes?

Some in the author community suspect these glitches signal a larger shift. In the past, Amazon has rolled out new interfaces by first restricting certain features. Author Central itself was overhauled in late 2022, at one point allowing more multimedia (like videos and multiple galleries). It’s possible that these access issues foreshadow another update. Whether that’s good or bad remains to be seen. What’s clear is that authors must remain vigilant. When changes occur, early adopters often gain the most visibility.

How to Future-Proof Your Author Presence

Glitches are frustrating, but you can mitigate the impact with a few long-term strategies: build your email list so you own your connection with readers, keep a press-ready document with your full author bio and book marketing copy for quick uploads, diversify your platform by maintaining a personal website and social media presence, and monitor your Amazon pages weekly so you catch problems early. Remember: Author Central is powerful, but it’s not perfect. By pairing these Amazon Author Central tips with broader platform-building, you protect your author career from being at the mercy of one system.

Final Takeaway

Amazon’s Author Central remains a crucial tool for visibility, credibility, and discoverability. Glitches are inconvenient, but persistence pays off. By documenting issues, escalating with precise requests, and making full use of every section once access is restored, you’ll ensure your author page works as hard as possible to turn browsers into buyers. Stay vigilant, stay consistent, and keep pushing for your rightful control over your presence. These Amazon Author Central tips will help you stay one step ahead.

Resources & Free Downloads

What is book bundling and how does it work?

How book marketing fundamentals drive sales.

Avoid these common book title mistakes.

Understand if Kindle Unlimited is right for your book.

How do Amazon ads work for books?

What’s the best pricing strategy to hit a bestseller list?

Check out all the episodes of our book promotion podcast anywhere you listen to podcasts!

Be sure to sign up for our newsletter on the right-hand side of our blog homepage. If you haven’t opened a recent one your registration may have lapsed.

Follow us on Instagram for book marketing tips and some much-needed levity

The post The Great Author Central Lockout: Amazon’s Latest Frustration appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .

Reading Time: 6 minutes

Amazon’s A10 algorithm update has generated no shortage of confusion and anxiety among authors, with plenty of speculation circulating in publishing groups and social media forums. But the reality is far less mysterious than the rumors suggest. Amazon’s changes reinforce what seasoned marketers and successful indie authors have known for years: visibility and sales on Amazon depend on creating an outstanding reader experience, maintaining a strong author platform, and approaching your book as a professional product. In this feature, we’ll break down how the A10 update works, what it actually changes for authors, and what strategies you should implement to maximize your Amazon sales for authors going forward.

The Algorithm Shift: Amazon Behaves More Like Google

The most important conceptual shift is that Amazon is increasingly operating like a traditional search engine. Just as Google rewards high-quality, relevant content, Amazon now prioritizes genuine engagement and customer satisfaction over keyword gaming or quick-fix tactics. Remember, unlike Google, which earns advertising revenue regardless of what users do after a search, Amazon only makes money when customers actually buy. That means the platform is heavily invested in surfacing book listings that are likely to convert clicks into purchases. The practical result: authors who focus on delivering a professional, reader-centric experience will be rewarded, while those relying on shortcuts will see diminished returns.

Why External Traffic Matters More Than Ever

One of the biggest changes under the A10 algorithm is the increased weight Amazon assigns to external traffic. If readers arrive at your book’s retail page from outside sources—whether from your author website, newsletter, social media, or blog—Amazon interprets that as evidence of genuine market interest. This external signal helps boost your book’s discoverability inside Amazon. In contrast, if all of your traffic comes from random browsing or purely from paid ads, your long-term organic visibility may suffer. For authors, this means building a platform beyond Amazon is no longer optional—it’s essential. Investing in your website, growing an email list, and cultivating active social media channels aren’t just good marketing practices; they directly influence your Amazon sales for authors by signaling relevance to the algorithm.

The Balance of Paid and Organic Sales

Amazon ads remain a valuable tool for visibility, but A10 places greater emphasis on the ratio between organic and paid sales. If your book only sells through ads and never attracts organic buyers, the algorithm may limit its visibility. This doesn’t mean ads are less important—in fact, they’re often necessary for discoverability—but they need to be balanced with strategies that generate unpaid momentum. Reviews, word of mouth, media coverage, and external traffic all contribute to that balance. Studies show that organic rankings drive more sustainable results, with one analysis revealing that products with a healthy mix of paid and organic sales enjoy higher long-term placement in search results compared to ad-dependent listings.

Retail Page Quality and the “Relevancy Score”

Think of your Amazon retail page as your storefront. Under A10, every detail—from your cover design to your description to your author bio—contributes to what can be considered your “Relevancy Score.” Incomplete pages, keyword-stuffed descriptions, poor covers, or unprofessional author photos all send negative signals. By contrast, a polished page communicates that you are a serious author and that your book is a quality product. Research supports this: surveys of online shoppers indicate that 94% of consumers avoid products with poor visuals or unclear descriptions. For authors, that means your retail page isn’t just informational—it’s a conversion tool. A cover that resonates with your genre, a description that reads like professional sales copy, and reviews that feel authentic all increase both buyer trust and algorithmic favor.

Why Covers Still Rule

Your book cover remains the single most powerful marketing asset you have. Amazon has become increasingly adept at recognizing when a cover aligns with professional genre standards. A reader glancing at your cover should immediately understand what kind of story or information they’re about to purchase. If your cover confuses or misleads, readers bounce—and the algorithm takes note. Data from the Book Smugglers’ consumer survey found that 79% of readers say the cover is the most important factor influencing their decision to click on a book. Under A10, a cover that matches audience expectations is not just a marketing advantage; it’s an algorithmic one.

The Evolution of Reviews

Authors often worry that they need hundreds of reviews to succeed. Fortunately, A10 appears to be shifting focus from sheer quantity to quality. Thoughtful, substantive reviews now matter more than dozens of short, generic ones. This is excellent news for emerging authors who may only be able to gather a smaller number of reviews but can encourage detailed reader feedback. In fact, BrightLocal’s research shows that 79% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. For authors, that means fewer but richer reviews can meaningfully boost credibility and improve visibility.

The Crucial 30-Day Launch Window

The first 30 days after your book’s release remain critically important—and perhaps even more so under A10. Amazon’s recommendation engine pays close attention to launch performance, and strong early sales can catapult your book into “also bought” sections, category lists, and personalized recommendations. Too many authors pour their energy into launch week, then scale back marketing efforts too soon. Without sustained campaigns during that first month, books often disappear from visibility as early sales decline. A smart launch plan should include advertising, email blasts, social promotion, and external traffic strategies sustained over several weeks, not just a few days.

Building a Platform Beyond Amazon

To thrive under A10, authors must think bigger than Amazon. Here are key platform elements every author should build:

A Professional Website: Your website should be the hub of your author brand, housing your bio, books, media kit, and blog or resources for readers. It’s also critical for SEO and driving traffic back to Amazon.Email Marketing: Studies show email remains one of the highest-ROI channels, with an average return of $36 for every $1 spent. A healthy email list ensures you can mobilize readers at launch and sustain sales momentum.Social Media Presence: While social platforms aren’t direct sales engines, they are traffic drivers. Consistent posting and engagement funnel readers back to Amazon and boost your external traffic signals.Media Coverage: Earned media not only enhances credibility but also creates spikes of traffic to your retail page, reinforcing your book’s relevance to the algorithm.Professional Presentation: Content and Metadata

Beyond covers and reviews, professional presentation extends to every element of your Amazon listing. Your title, subtitle, and categories should be chosen strategically to maximize discoverability without falling into keyword stuffing. Your description should be structured like sales copy: strong opening hook, scannable formatting, and a clear call to action. Author photos should be high resolution, recent, and professional. Pricing strategies also factor into perceived value—Amazon tracks conversion rates, so a book priced too high for its genre may struggle to maintain visibility even with strong traffic.

The Algorithm Rewards Reader Experience

Ultimately, A10 is pushing authors toward one core truth: every element of your book and platform should be designed with your ideal reader in mind. When readers engage positively—with clicks, purchases, reviews, and continued reading—Amazon rewards that engagement with greater visibility. The algorithm isn’t out to punish authors; it’s trying to surface the products most likely to delight customers. For authors willing to invest in professional presentation, reader engagement strategies, and external platform building, A10 is an opportunity, not a threat.

Why Quality Beats Quantity

Another positive shift in A10 is its de-emphasis on quantity in favor of quality. With a flood of low-effort books entering the marketplace—many generated by AI or rushed production—Amazon is working harder to highlight books that demonstrate care, professionalism, and authentic reader appeal. That means authors who take the time to craft exceptional content, invest in strong design, and cultivate meaningful reviews are now more competitive against the noise. In other words, the algorithm is rewarding the very practices that help authors build sustainable careers.

Practical Steps to Boost Your Amazon Sales

If you want to maximize your Amazon sales for authors under A10, here’s a checklist to guide your strategy:

Audit your retail page for professionalism and completeness.Redesign your cover if it doesn’t align with genre expectations.Rewrite your description using professional sales copy techniques.Develop an external traffic strategy using your website, email, and social media.Balance paid advertising with organic strategies to drive sustainable sales.Encourage detailed, thoughtful reviews from readers.Maintain momentum through the first 30 days post-launch and beyond.Treat your book as a professional product, not a side project.Supporting StatisticsAmazon accounts for roughly 68% of U.S. print and ebook sales, making it the single most important marketplace for authors.79% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations.94% of shoppers avoid products with poor visuals or unclear information.Email remains the highest-ROI marketing channel, returning $36 for every $1 spent.Launch momentum is critical: titles that sustain early sales see 2x higher long-term visibility compared to those that peak in week one.Final Takeaway

The Amazon A10 algorithm is not a mysterious force designed to harm authors—it’s an evolution toward prioritizing authentic engagement and reader satisfaction. Authors who rely solely on quick hacks or ad spend without investing in platform building and professional presentation will struggle, but those who treat their books as serious products and prioritize reader experience will thrive. Focus on building a strong author platform, designing high-quality retail pages, and cultivating organic engagement both on and off Amazon. If you’ve been following best practices already, A10 may actually help you rise above the flood of low-quality content. The days of “publish and pray” are over, but for authors who take their careers seriously, that’s very good news indeed.

The post 10 Proven Strategies to Own the Amazon Algorithm appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .

Reading Time: 3 minuteshttps://www.buzzsprout.com/664939/episodes/17583964-your-newsletter-is-worth-more-than-your-social-media-followers.mp3

Email newsletters are often the most powerful yet underutilized marketing tool available to authors. While social media platforms dominate conversations about visibility, newsletters provide something much more valuable: direct access to your readers without algorithm interference. In this post, we’ll explore why newsletters matter, the most effective author newsletter strategies, and how you can maximize their impact.

Why Newsletters Outperform Social Media

Many authors hesitate to start a newsletter, thinking they need a large list or fearing they don’t have anything meaningful to share. That hesitation is costly. Even a small newsletter audience is worth cultivating because those subscribers are your most engaged fans. They’ve willingly shared their email address—an increasingly rare commitment in a privacy-conscious world.

Social media reach continues to decline as algorithms tighten. A post that goes live today might vanish from a reader’s feed within minutes. By contrast, newsletters land directly in your reader’s inbox, where your message has a much higher chance of being seen and read. According to industry data, average email open rates hover between 21–42% across sectors—significantly higher than organic reach on most social platforms.

Building Your List: Placement and Promotion

Strong author newsletter strategies start with list building. The best opportunities include:

Website power corner: Place your sign-up box in the upper right of your homepage for maximum visibility.

Pop-ups: Though sometimes seen as intrusive, they consistently drive conversions.

Back matter: Add a short invitation in your book’s closing pages.

Amazon profile: Mention your newsletter in your author bio (without linking, to follow guidelines).

Link-in-bio tools: Make sign-ups accessible through your social media profiles.

These “set it and forget it” placements continue to work in the background, bringing in new subscribers long after you’ve set them up.

Content that Builds Connection

Frequency is less important than consistency. Whether you choose weekly, monthly, or quarterly, stick to a schedule your readers can anticipate. Don’t fall into the trap of only emailing during book launches—this forces you to re-warm your list each time instead of maintaining an ongoing relationship.

What you send matters just as much:

Share behind-the-scenes insights into your writing process.

Reveal character development stories or cut scenes.

Offer personal anecdotes that humanize you as an author.

Balance promotional updates with genuine value.

Consistency builds trust. Readers who know they’ll hear from you regularly are more likely to engage and support your books.

Key Elements of Effective Author Newsletters

The most successful newsletters share a few traits:

Compelling subject lines that spark curiosity.

Skimmable formatting with short sections and clear headings.

Mobile-friendly design since most readers check email on their phones.

Calls to action that invite readers to review, buy, or share your book.

Pro tip: tease a small giveaway in your introduction and reveal it at the end. This tactic encourages readers to scroll through your entire message. And always reply personally to responses—this builds relationships and improves deliverability.

Reader Magnets That Attract Subscribers

An essential part of most author newsletter strategies is offering a “reader magnet”—a freebie in exchange for an email address. The best magnets align with your brand:

Fiction authors: character profiles, deleted scenes, alternate endings, or bonus short stories.

Nonfiction authors: quizzes, checklists, worksheets, or tip sheets related to your area of expertise.

Generic freebies don’t work. Your magnet should be something your specific readers genuinely want, not just filler content.

Why Author Newsletters Are Worth the Effort

Email remains one of the highest-ROI channels in marketing. Some studies show that every $1 spent on email can return an average of $36. For authors, the ROI isn’t just sales—it’s community. A loyal subscriber base will support launches, leave reviews, and help spread the word about your books.

In fact, a survey of over 500 authors found that 85% maintain a mailing list, and the majority believe it is more effective than social media for driving book sales. That’s why developing strong author newsletter strategies is one of the smartest long-term investments you can make in your author career.

Final Takeaway

Your newsletter isn’t just another marketing task—it’s the heart of your author platform. It allows you to build a community around your work, control your messaging, and connect directly with your readers. Whether you’re starting small or revitalizing a dormant list, investing in consistent, thoughtful author newsletter strategies will help you grow a base of loyal fans who will champion your books for years to come.

Resources & Free Downloads

Holiday book marketing: why summer prep matters

Pitching book influencers: what authors need to know

Amazon ad problems: how genre mismatching can harm sales

Marketing versus sales: what authors need to know

Media coverage: what all authors need to understand

Game-changing Goodreads news that will affect sales

How email newsletters can amplify your success

Check out all the episodes of our book promotion podcast anywhere you listen to podcasts!

Be sure to sign up for our newsletter on the right-hand side of our blog homepage. If you haven’t opened a recent one your registration may have lapsed.

Follow us on Instagram for book marketing tips and some much-needed levity.

The post How Email Newsletters Supercharge Author Success appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .

Reading Time: 5 minuteshttps://www.buzzsprout.com/664939/episodes/17583271-goodreads-evolution-amazon-s-game-changing-integration.mp3

Amazon’s latest update linking Goodreads activity with Amazon shopping turns the Goodreads “Want-to-Read” shelf into a high-intent sales trigger. For authors and publishers, that means you can finally treat shelf-adds as more than a passive signal. In this guide, we explain what changed, why it matters, and how to harness goodreads for book marketing to drive real sales.

What Changed: From Bookmark to Buy Reminder

Readers who add a title to their Goodreads Want-to-Read shelf can now encounter that same book while browsing on Amazon. In practical terms, the shelf-add becomes a timely reminder during a buying session—exactly when a reader is most primed to purchase. That shift elevates Goodreads from a discovery tool into a catalyst at the point of sale.

Why This Matters in Your Funnel

Goodreads has always been powerful for discovery—lists, reviews, friends’ feeds. The new link helps bridge the gap between interest and action. Treat Goodreads as the awareness engine and your Amazon page as the closer: strong cover, subtitle, description, reviews, and metadata turn shelf-interest into conversions.

Giveaways Just Got More Valuable

Giveaways automatically add your book to entrants’ Want-to-Read shelves, multiplying future touchpoints without extra ad spend. With the integration, each shelf-add now carries downstream purchase potential on Amazon. That makes giveaways an even stronger lever for both frontlist launches and backlist revival.

Standard vs. Premium Packages

Standard Giveaway: cost-effective entry point for visibility and review momentum.

Premium Giveaway: higher-visibility upgrade when you need extra reach around major moments (e.g., launch, awards, seasonal promotions).

Expected Reach Benchmarks

Goodreads reports that Standard Giveaways often attract several thousand entrants—fueling sizable waves of Want-to-Read shelf-adds. The more qualified shelf-adds you earn, the more opportunities the Amazon reminder has to surface later.

Tactics to Maximize the New Shelf-to-Sale Path1) Make “Add to Goodreads” a Default CTA

Embed a simple “Add to your Goodreads Want-to-Read shelf” call-to-action everywhere: your newsletter welcome sequence, launch emails, website book pages, social media captions, podcast show notes, and event slides. Link directly to your Goodreads book page to minimize friction.

2) Run Giveaways on a Cadence (But Be Strategic)

Quarterly is a good starting rhythm; flex around genre seasonality and retail moments (e.g., Prime Day, holiday shopping). Use print for personalization/swag opportunities and Kindle for logistical simplicity. Start with Standard; escalate to Premium when a bigger spotlight is justified.

3) Prep Amazon Pages to Convert

Update covers, subtitle, and description for immediate clarity and promise.

Front-load social proof (editorial reviews, endorsements, awards).

Check pricing and metadata for competitive relevance.

Align keywords and categories with real reader search behavior.

4) Track the Shelf-to-Sale Signal

Note Want-to-Read counts before/after promotions and watch subsequent Amazon conversions. While you won’t see every reminder trigger, you’ll spot patterns: certain audiences, genres, and timings produce outsized bumps.

5) Don’t Forget the Backlist

Invite readers to add earlier titles to Goodreads. Backlist often compounds best under this integration because it benefits from accumulated reviews and brand trust—then meets buyers again at checkout.

Playbook: “Goodreads for Book Marketing” in 7 Steps

Claim/optimize your Goodreads Author profile and book pages.

Set up your giveaway (Standard first), time it to your campaign calendar.

Promote the giveaway off-platform (newsletter, social, site, partners).

Add CTAs everywhere to encourage Want-to-Read shelf-adds.

Refresh your Amazon listing (cover, description, editorial reviews).

Measure Want-to-Read growth and watch for trailing sales lift.

Iterate: adjust timing, format (print vs. Kindle), and messaging.

FAQ

Will every Want-to-Read shelf-add trigger an Amazon reminder?
No. Reminder surfacing is controlled by Amazon’s systems and won’t trigger for every reader. That’s why scale and relevance of shelf-adds matter.

Are giveaways worth the cost?
For many categories, yes—especially now that shelf-adds can influence purchase during Amazon sessions. Start with Standard giveaways and test your results before upgrading.

How often should I run giveaways?
Quarterly is a strong baseline. If your genre is seasonal (e.g., holiday romance), bias toward the months when your audience is most active.

Key Takeaway

By aligning Goodreads discovery with Amazon conversion, authors can finally operationalize goodreads for book marketing as a measurable lever. Treat shelf-adds like future sales opportunities—then make sure your Amazon page is ready to close when the reminder appears.

Amazon’s latest update linking Goodreads activity with Amazon shopping turns the Goodreads “Want-to-Read” shelf into a high-intent sales trigger. For authors and publishers, that means you can finally treat shelf-adds as more than a passive signal. In this guide, we explain what changed, why it matters, and how to harness goodreads for book marketing to drive real sales.

What Changed: From Bookmark to Buy Reminder

Readers who add a title to their Goodreads Want-to-Read shelf can now encounter that same book while browsing on Amazon. In practical terms, the shelf-add becomes a timely reminder during a buying session—exactly when a reader is most primed to purchase. That shift elevates Goodreads from a discovery tool into a catalyst at the point of sale.

Why This Matters in Your Funnel

Goodreads has always been powerful for discovery—lists, reviews, friends’ feeds. The new link helps bridge the gap between interest and action. Treat Goodreads as the awareness engine and your Amazon page as the closer: strong cover, subtitle, description, reviews, and metadata turn shelf-interest into conversions.

Giveaways Just Got More Valuable

Giveaways automatically add your book to entrants’ Want-to-Read shelves, multiplying future touchpoints without extra ad spend. With the integration, each shelf-add now carries downstream purchase potential on Amazon. That makes giveaways an even stronger lever for both frontlist launches and backlist revival.

Standard vs. Premium PackagesStandard Giveaway: cost-effective entry point for visibility and review momentum.Premium Giveaway: higher-visibility upgrade when you need extra reach around major moments (e.g., launch, awards, seasonal promotions).Expected Reach Benchmarks

Goodreads reports that Standard Giveaways often attract several thousand entrants—fueling sizable waves of Want-to-Read shelf-adds. The more qualified shelf-adds you earn, the more opportunities the Amazon reminder has to surface later.

Tactics to Maximize the New Shelf-to-Sale Path1) Make “Add to Goodreads” a Default CTA

Embed a simple “Add to your Goodreads Want-to-Read shelf” call-to-action everywhere: your newsletter welcome sequence, launch emails, website book pages, social media captions, podcast show notes, and event slides. Link directly to your Goodreads book page to minimize friction.

2) Run Giveaways on a Cadence (But Be Strategic)

Quarterly is a good starting rhythm; flex around genre seasonality and retail moments (e.g., Prime Day, holiday shopping). Use print for personalization/swag opportunities and Kindle for logistical simplicity. Start with Standard; escalate to Premium when a bigger spotlight is justified.

3) Prep Amazon Pages to ConvertUpdate covers, subtitle, and description for immediate clarity and promise.Front-load social proof (editorial reviews, endorsements, awards).Check pricing and metadata for competitive relevance.Align keywords and categories with real reader search behavior.4) Track the Shelf-to-Sale Signal

Note Want-to-Read counts before/after promotions and watch subsequent Amazon conversions. While you won’t see every reminder trigger, you’ll spot patterns: certain audiences, genres, and timings produce outsized bumps.

5) Don’t Forget the Backlist

Invite readers to add earlier titles to Goodreads. Backlist often compounds best under this integration because it benefits from accumulated reviews and brand trust—then meets buyers again at checkout.

Playbook: “Goodreads for Book Marketing” in 7 StepsClaim/optimize your Goodreads Author profile and book pages.Set up your giveaway (Standard first), time it to your campaign calendar.Promote the giveaway off-platform (newsletter, social, site, partners).Add CTAs everywhere to encourage Want-to-Read shelf-adds.Refresh your Amazon listing (cover, description, editorial reviews).Measure Want-to-Read growth and watch for trailing sales lift.Iterate: adjust timing, format (print vs. Kindle), and messaging.FAQ

Will every Want-to-Read shelf-add trigger an Amazon reminder?
No. Reminder surfacing is controlled by Amazon’s systems and won’t trigger for every reader. That’s why scale and relevance of shelf-adds matter.

Are giveaways worth the cost?
For many categories, yes—especially now that shelf-adds can influence purchase during Amazon sessions. Start with Standard giveaways and test your results before upgrading.

How often should I run giveaways?
Quarterly is a strong baseline. If your genre is seasonal (e.g., holiday romance), bias toward the months when your audience is most active.

Key Takeaway

By aligning Goodreads discovery with Amazon conversion, authors can finally operationalize goodreads for book marketing as a measurable lever. Treat shelf-adds like future sales opportunities—then make sure your Amazon page is ready to close when the reminder appears.

Resources & Free Downloads

Holiday book marketing: why summer prep matters

Pitching book influencers: what authors need to know

Amazon ad problems: how genre mismatching can harm sales

Marketing versus sales: what authors need to know

Media coverage: what all authors need to understand

Game-changing Goodreads news that will affect sales

How email newsletters can amplify your success

Check out all the episodes of our book promotion podcast anywhere you listen to podcasts!

Be sure to sign up for our newsletter on the right-hand side of our blog homepage. If you haven’t opened a recent one your registration may have lapsed.

Follow us on Instagram for book marketing tips and some much-needed levity.

The post Goodreads Evolution: Amazon’s Game-Changing Integration appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .

Reading Time: 6 minutes

For authors today, writing a book is only the beginning. The real challenge comes in making sure your voice is heard in a noisy, crowded market. One of the most effective ways to amplify your reach and establish credibility is through media coverage. While advertising, social media, and email newsletters all play important roles in a marketing strategy, earned media coverage remains uniquely powerful because it provides third-party validation. In this feature, we’ll take a deep dive into why media coverage for authors matters more than ever, how to prepare yourself to be media-ready, what journalists and producers are looking for, and the actionable steps you can take to land interviews, features, and reviews.

Why Media Coverage Moves the Needle

Media coverage gives authors something few other marketing tactics can: credibility. When a newspaper, magazine, podcast, or television show decides to feature you, it tells their audience that you are worth listening to. Readers understand that media outlets vet their guests and sources; if you’re included, it positions you as an authority. Beyond credibility, coverage drives discoverability. Each article, interview, or guest feature has the potential to put your book in front of thousands—or even millions—of new eyes. In fact, according to Nielsen, exposure from major media coverage can increase book sales by as much as 20% in the weeks following a feature. For nonfiction authors in particular, coverage often leads to speaking opportunities, consulting work, and brand partnerships. For fiction authors, coverage can help build community interest, drive book club adoption, or even generate interest for adaptations.

The ROI of Earned Media

Unlike paid ads, earned media isn’t something you can simply buy. You have to earn it by presenting yourself as an authority, thought leader, or expert who can add value to an audience. That effort pays off. According to PR industry surveys, 79% of marketers believe earned media is more effective than paid ads, and companies that combine PR with content marketing report a 13% higher ROI. The global PR industry itself is expected to reach $133.8 billion by 2027, reflecting how much brands (including authors) are investing in credibility and reputation.

What Journalists and Producers Want

Many authors assume that simply having a book is enough to make them attractive to media outlets. In reality, journalists are inundated with pitches. They aren’t looking to feature books—they are looking to feature experts, storytellers, and thought leaders who can help them tell timely, relevant stories. To secure media coverage, you need to align yourself with what editors, journalists, and producers actually need:

Demonstrable Expertise: Your real-world credentials matter. Media decision-makers are far more likely to feature you if you have experience, leadership roles, awards, or education in your subject area. For fiction authors, this could mean connecting your themes to cultural or social conversations. For nonfiction authors, it means leaning heavily on your professional expertise.

Timeliness and Relevance: Editors want to know why your story matters right now. This is where “news hooks” come in. Can you tie your book’s themes to current events, seasonal stories, or trends? For example, if your book covers workplace issues, you could connect it to headlines about remote work or AI in hiring.

Clear and Concise Messaging: Media professionals skim hundreds of pitches a week. If you cannot explain your book’s angle or your expertise in two or three sentences, your pitch will likely be ignored.

Professionalism: Having a professional media kit signals that you’re serious. A media kit should include a polished bio, a professional headshot, book details, talking points, and past appearances. When journalists see a ready-to-go kit, it makes their job easier and increases your chances of getting booked.

Laying the Groundwork for Coverage

Before you start pitching yourself, take time to prepare the foundation that will make you attractive to media. Start with your credentials. Write down all your professional experience, education, speaking engagements, awards, and leadership roles. Even small roles can become part of your story when framed correctly. If you’ve volunteered, served on committees, or been part of professional organizations, include those. They all build your credibility.

Second, get your branding in order. Your book cover should look professional and polished enough that it could double as a movie poster. Your author headshot should be high quality and professional. Your website should clearly communicate who you are and what you write. Journalists will check all of these assets before deciding whether to feature you.

Third, practice your soundbites. Media interviews are often short, and you won’t have time to explain complex backstories. Record yourself answering common questions and focus on delivering clear, concise, and engaging responses. This practice will help you avoid filler words, rambling, and vague answers.

Start Local, Then Build National

Many authors want to jump straight to national media outlets like The New York Times or Good Morning America. But media coverage is often a ladder: you build credibility step by step. Start with local newspapers, radio stations, podcasts, and community television. These outlets are more likely to say yes to first-time authors, and the coverage you get becomes part of your press portfolio. From there, move to regional and industry-specific outlets. Trade publications, niche blogs, and podcasts can be incredibly valuable, often reaching more targeted audiences than mainstream media. Once you’ve built a track record, you’ll be in a much stronger position to pitch national outlets.

How to Pitch Effectively

Pitching is both an art and a science. Here are key strategies to increase your chances of getting a yes:

Personalize your outreach. Don’t send mass emails. Reference specific work the journalist has done to show you understand their beat.Lead with the hook. Your subject line and first two sentences should explain why your pitch is relevant now.Focus on value, not sales. Journalists don’t want to promote your book—they want a story. Position yourself as someone who can offer insights, commentary, or a fresh perspective.Keep it concise. Your email should be no more than 200 words. Include bullet points with potential angles.Provide easy next steps. Link to your media kit, book page, and website. Make it as easy as possible for them to learn more.The Role of Timing

Timing is everything when it comes to media coverage. Journalists and producers often work weeks or even months ahead of time. If you’re pitching back-to-school stories in September, you’re already too late. Start looking for opportunities far in advance. For example, when you see Halloween decorations in stores in August, that’s your cue to pitch Halloween-related stories. Think in terms of seasonal relevance: New Year’s resolutions, tax season, Valentine’s Day, summer reading, holiday stress. Connect your expertise to these cycles and you’ll be more appealing.

Leveraging Coverage Once You Have It

Landing coverage is only the beginning. To maximize its value:

Share it widely. Post links on your social media, include them in your newsletter, and feature them on your website.Repurpose it. Turn an interview into a blog post, a podcast clip into a TikTok video, or a quote into a graphic.Add it to your media kit. Coverage begets coverage. Once you have examples, future outlets will be more likely to feature you.Thank the journalist. A quick note of thanks goes a long way in building long-term relationships.Media Gatekeepers: How to Overcome Resistance

It’s common to hear no from journalists. Here are ways to respond to common objections:

“We don’t cover books.” Respond that you’re not pitching a book—you’re offering expertise or commentary on a timely topic. The book is supporting evidence, not the story.“We need a local angle.” Show how your expertise or story connects to their community.“Why should we choose you?” Lean on your unique experiences, credentials, or fresh perspective. Explain why your insights are different from others.Supporting Statistics55% of journalists say they want exclusive stories or unique angles, not generic pitches.46% of PR professionals say tracking and analyzing coverage is their most important metric, reflecting the ongoing value of media mentions.88% of PR professionals agree that digital storytelling is one of the most impactful trends in the industry, proving that compelling stories are what drive coverage.In book marketing studies, exposure in even one mid-tier media outlet has been shown to increase sales by 10–20% in the weeks following coverage.The Long-Term Benefits of Media Coverage

For authors, media coverage is more than a short-term marketing tool. It’s a long-term credibility asset. When you’ve been featured by respected outlets, that coverage stays online, providing search engine visibility for years. It builds your reputation as a thought leader, opens doors to speaking and consulting opportunities, and strengthens your author brand. Importantly, it positions you as someone worth listening to—not just because you wrote a book, but because you bring valuable perspective, expertise, and insight to a larger conversation.

Final Takeaway

In today’s competitive market, media coverage for authors isn’t optional—it’s essential. Journalists and producers are looking for experts and storytellers who can provide genuine value to their audiences. By building your credentials, preparing your soundbites, creating a professional media kit, and pitching timely, relevant stories, you can position yourself as the go-to expert in your niche. Start small, build momentum, and leverage every win. Over time, your media presence will not only drive book sales but also establish you as a credible, influential voice in your field.

Resources & Free Downloads

Resources & Free Downloads

Holiday book marketing: why summer prep matters

Pitching book influencers: what authors need to know

Amazon ad problems: how genre mismatching can harm sales

Marketing versus sales: what authors need to know

Media coverage: what all authors need to understand

Game-changing Goodreads news that will affect sales

How email newsletters can amplify your success

Check out all the episodes of our book promotion podcast anywhere you listen to podcasts!

Be sure to sign up for our newsletter on the right-hand side of our blog homepage. If you haven’t opened a recent one your registration may have lapsed.

Follow us on Instagram for book marketing tips and some much-needed levity.

The post Media Coverage for Authors: Why It Matters and How to Earn It appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .

Reading Time: 4 minuteshttps://www.buzzsprout.com/664939/episodes/17504312-broke-the-marketing-bank-but-no-sales-here-s-why.mp3

When writers hear “marketing,” it’s tempting to conflate it with direct sales results. But as Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell emphasize in their podcast, that confusion is a common trap—and one that can derail author success. Clarifying the distinction between marketing and book sales is one of the most strategic mindset shifts an author can make.

Marketing is the process of exposure and visibility. Sales is what happens after exposure, when the reader decides to buy. Fail to separate them, and you risk misaligned expectations, wasted effort, and frustration. But embrace the distinction—and you’ll build a foundation for sustainable growth.

What Marketing Really Does (and Doesn’t Do)Marketing = Awareness, Exposure, Attraction

At its core, marketing is about letting your ideal readers know you and your book exist. It’s the process of putting your message and brand in front of the right people—those predisposed to connect with your content. However, marketing doesn’t force someone to buy. It merely brings them to the “open door” of your funnel.

The Myth: Marketing Should Immediately Drive Sales

Many authors expect their marketing investment to produce measurable sales within 30 days. That expectation sets them up for disappointment. In truth, marketing’s role is long-term and cumulative—think multiple impressions over time, rather than instant revenue. There’s a classic rule that potential buyers need seven touchpoints before converting, but in today’s crowded media environment, that number might be closer to 17 or more. If you judge marketing solely by immediate sales, you may prematurely abandon tactics that actually build momentum.

What Converts: The Sales Side of the Funnel

Once you’ve captured attention, the “sales” elements take over—and these are often within your control as the author. Key factors include:

The book cover, title, subtitle, and design

The book description and blurb

Reviews, endorsements, and social proof

Your author platform, branding, and how you present yourself on retailer pages

The overall conversion experience, including pricing and metadata

In other words: marketing brings people to the door. Your book and your brand convince them to enter and make the purchase.

Why Many Authors Fail: Misplaced Expectations

Here’s where authors often get tripped up:

They expect sales to follow immediately from marketing—and when they don’t, they conclude the marketing “didn’t work.”

They over-invest in broad advertising tactics before their branding and sales assets are optimized.

They stop marketing when short-term results don’t materialize, instead of doubling down on cumulative reach.

Authors who win are those who accept that marketing is a long game. They treat each campaign as a building block—not a one-off sprint.

Real-World Data That Reinforces This Divide

To make this more concrete, here are a few statistics that highlight why separating marketing and book sales is essential:

In the publishing industry, 45% of marketing budgets are allocated to paid advertising. This means nearly half of all marketing spend is devoted to awareness tactics, not direct selling. (Source: WiFi Talents)

83% of publishers regard digital advertising as more effective than traditional print advertising. This reinforces that visibility and impressions are the backbone of modern publishing. (Source: WiFi Talents)

Across all industries, the average conversion rate hovers around 2.9%. In other words, only a small fraction of those exposed will take action—even with strong marketing. (Source: DemandSage)

In the printing and publishing services sector, sales call conversion rates average about 26.82%. Persuasive sales elements like copy, reviews, and design remain critical to closing deals. (Source: Focus Digital)

The U.S. publishing industry saw trade (consumer book) revenues down 8.1% year over year in May 2025, though digital audio continued to grow. This demonstrates just how competitive and pressured the book sales landscape has become. (Source: AAP/Publishers.org)

These data points emphasize that:

Publishers heavily rely on marketing to build exposure.

Conversion rates are naturally modest, so visibility must be wide and sustained.

Sales effectiveness—how well your assets close the deal—is often the ultimate deciding factor.

How to Apply This Distinction in Your Author Marketing StrategyStep 1: Optimize Your Sales Assets First

Before pouring money into ads or broad campaigns, ensure your book’s conversion drivers are strong. This includes your cover, subtitle, description, retailer page copy, metadata, and reviews. If these elements aren’t convincing, no amount of marketing will generate long-term sales.

Step 2: Build Campaigns with Touchpoints in Mind

Successful marketing campaigns layer exposure across time and platforms. Examples include:

Email sequences (welcome drips, newsletter updates)

Social media (consistent posting targeted at reader communities)

Paid ads (retargeting, lookalike audiences on platforms like Amazon and Facebook)

Content marketing (blog posts, podcast guest spots, speaking engagements)

Partnerships and influencer outreach

Each touchpoint increases familiarity and trust, which are necessary before conversion happens.

Step 3: Set Realistic Expectations and KPIs

Don’t expect every marketing dollar to produce immediate sales. Instead, track leading indicators like impressions, reach, clicks, engagement, and email opt-ins. These show whether your visibility is expanding, which is a prerequisite for eventual sales. Over time, these efforts compound.

Step 4: Test, Measure, and Iterate

Marketing without analysis wastes resources. A/B test ad creatives, experiment with cover variations, monitor click-through rates, and watch which channels generate the most traction. Then reinvest where you see results rather than scattering your resources thinly.

Common Mistakes Authors Make When Blending Marketing and Sales

To drive the lesson home, here are some of the most frequent mistakes authors make:

Expecting instant ROI: Thinking an ad campaign will pay for itself in weeks rather than months.

Failing to distinguish exposure from conversion: Believing that simply “getting the word out” guarantees sales.

Neglecting sales assets: Launching campaigns before covers, blurbs, and pages are optimized.

Stopping too soon: Giving up on marketing campaigns that are building impressions but haven’t yet reached critical mass.

Avoiding these traps can save you significant money, time, and energy.

The Mindset Shift That Leads to Long-Term Success

By embracing the distinct roles of marketing and sales in your publishing journey, you position yourself for greater success and sustainability. Rather than becoming frustrated when marketing efforts don’t immediately translate to sales, you’ll understand that you’re building the necessary foundation for long-term reader engagement.

This mindset shift allows you to make more strategic decisions about where to invest your resources, how to evaluate the effectiveness of your campaigns, and when to expect returns. Ultimately, maintaining this clear distinction will help you develop realistic expectations, sustain your motivation, and create the conditions for lasting success in today’s competitive publishing marketplace.

Resources & Free Downloads

What is book bundling and how does it work?

How book marketing fundamentals drive sales.

Avoid these common book title mistakes.

Understand if Kindle Unlimited is right for your book.

How do Amazon ads work for books?

What’s the best pricing strategy to hit a bestseller list?

Check out all the episodes of our book promotion podcast anywhere you listen to podcasts!

Be sure to sign up for our newsletter on the right-hand side of our blog homepage. If you haven’t opened a recent one your registration may have lapsed.

Follow us on Instagram for book marketing tips and some much-needed levity.

The post Marketing vs. Sales: Why Authors Must Know the Difference appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .

Reading Time: 3 minuteshttps://www.buzzsprout.com/664939/episodes/17504276-the-amazon-sledgehammer-how-one-author-lost-everything-over-metadata.mp3A Shocking Account Ban That Rocked the Indie Community

In a shocking revelation that has sent ripples throughout the indie author community, Penny and Amy discussed a disturbing incident where an author lost their entire catalog of 30 nonfiction books overnight due to an Amazon account ban. The ban, triggered by a single book flagged for “misleading metadata,” highlights the increasingly severe measures Amazon is taking against content that violates their guidelines—whether intentionally or unintentionally.

The author in question had been building their catalog for four years and was earning a substantial portion of their income from these books. Most distressingly, the ban resulted in the loss of pending royalty payments, effectively erasing not just future earning potential but money already earned. This cautionary tale serves as a stark reminder of how precarious an author’s position can be when relying primarily on a single retailer, especially one known for implementing sweeping policy changes without warning.

The Trigger: Metadata Missteps With Big Consequences

What makes this situation particularly concerning is the seemingly minor nature of the violation. The book that triggered the ban referenced a popular influencer in its subtitle—a practice that has been common in marketing circles but is now clearly falling under Amazon’s increased scrutiny. Even though the author had properly credited the influencer within the book, the mere mention in the metadata was deemed sufficient for a complete account ban. When the author attempted to appeal, Amazon rejected it and permanently closed the account.

This aggressive policing appears to be part of Amazon’s broader crackdown on AI-generated content flooding their marketplace. Unscrupulous operators have been uploading existing bestselling books to AI systems, having them rewritten, and then publishing these derivative works as original content. Some of these knockoffs have even mistakenly made their way onto prestigious bestseller lists like USA Today and The New York Times. While Amazon’s intent to protect intellectual property and maintain marketplace integrity is understandable, their implementation has been described by Penny as taking “a sledgehammer to what should be precision work.”

Red Flags in Amazon Metadata for Books

Authors should be particularly vigilant about several key areas that might trigger Amazon’s automated systems.

Covers that too closely resemble popular books or use cookie-cutter templates.

Subtitle abuse, especially name-dropping celebrities or public figures without permission.

Inflated claims about results, endorsements, bestseller status, or sales figures that cannot be verified.

Each of these issues connects directly to Amazon metadata for books—and can mean the difference between a successful campaign and a catastrophic ban.

Why Metadata Audits Are Essential

The podcast hosts emphasized the importance of conducting a thorough audit of your metadata—not just the keywords and categories on the backend, but also the visible elements like book descriptions, subtitles, and cover designs. They strongly advised against pushing the envelope with marketing claims, especially those that could be interpreted as misleading. While it’s important to highlight your book’s value, overpromising or making unverifiable claims is increasingly risky.

For authors concerned about their current metadata, seeking an objective third-party review was recommended. Both Penny and Amy noted that authors are often too close to their own work to objectively assess how their marketing language might be perceived. They also cautioned against relying too heavily on AI-generated content for book descriptions, as these systems tend to use inflated language that could potentially trigger Amazon’s filtering systems.

Protecting Yourself Beyond Amazon

The most important takeaway is the necessity of maintaining backups of all book files and metadata. Many authors, even experienced ones, struggle to locate their final files when needed. Additionally, building assets outside of Amazon—like a robust website and email list—provides a safety net should the worst happen. While Amazon remains the dominant player in book sales, particularly for ebooks, having the ability to reach readers directly is invaluable insurance against platform dependency.

Persistence Matters When Challenging a Ban

Despite Amazon’s stance that bans are final, both hosts encouraged persistence when dealing with enforcement actions. Documenting your case, providing evidence for any claims made in your metadata, and continually escalating issues can eventually lead to resolution. As Penny noted, “Be the toddler” who keeps asking “why” until they get a satisfactory answer.

Resources & Free Downloads

What is book bundling and how does it work?

How book marketing fundamentals drive sales.

Avoid these common book title mistakes.

Understand if Kindle Unlimited is right for your book.

How do Amazon ads work for books?

What’s the best pricing strategy to hit a bestseller list?

Check out all the episodes of our book promotion podcast anywhere you listen to podcasts!

Be sure to sign up for our newsletter on the right-hand side of our blog homepage. If you haven’t opened a recent one your registration may have lapsed.

Follow us on Instagram for book marketing tips and some much-needed levity

The post Amazon Metadata for Books: The Hidden Risk Authors Can’t Ignore appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Authors are natural idea generators. Creative energy flows into everything from character arcs to cover designs. But when it comes to marketing, that same energy can lead authors astray. In our latest podcast episode, we explored a critical and often overlooked distinction: the difference between productive goal-setting and the seductive trap of unproductive brainstorming.

If you’ve ever found yourself lost in endless to-do lists or theoretical “what-ifs” about your book’s success, keep reading—because this post will help you shift from spinning your wheels to making real progress with a book marketing plan that works.

The Brainstorming Trap: Why It Feels Productive But Isn’t

Let’s be honest: brainstorming feels good. It’s creative, exciting, and full of possibility. But for many authors, it becomes a clever form of procrastination. Instead of moving the needle on their book marketing efforts, they stay busy generating ideas—ideas that never materialize into action.

This behavior isn’t laziness. It’s psychology. Brainstorming is safer than implementation. There’s no rejection in brainstorming. No failure. But also—no progress. When brainstorming becomes the default mode, it creates the illusion of productivity without the actual impact.

Vague Goals Are the Enemy of Progress

Another issue we unpacked in the episode is the prevalence of vague, lofty goals. Phrases like “I want to be a bestseller” or “I want my book made into a movie” are incredibly common. And while there’s nothing wrong with dreaming big, these kinds of goals don’t lead to action because they lack specificity.

Let’s break it down: roughly 4,500 books are published every single day. About 30 of those will be adapted into films per year. That’s not to discourage you—it’s a wake-up call. Big dreams are valid, but they need to be broken into small, actionable parts. That’s where a true book marketing plan begins.

The Power of Micro-Goals

So what’s the solution? Micro-goals.

Micro-goals are the bite-sized building blocks of a smart book marketing plan. They’re clear, achievable, and stacked in a way that builds momentum over time. For example, if your ultimate dream is to become a highly paid speaker, you can’t just declare it and wait for a TEDx invite. You need to:

Perfect your book and messagingSecure small local speaking gigsBuild a media list and pitch yourselfCreate a professional speaker one-sheetGather testimonials and video clipsGradually scale your platform

Each of these tasks is a micro-goal. And each one brings you a step closer to the big dream, with tangible progress and measurable wins.

Why Micro-Goals Work

There are four powerful benefits to using micro-goals:

Clarity: They turn vague aspirations into an actual roadmap.Momentum: Each completed goal gives you a small win, keeping motivation high.Efficiency: You’ll know exactly where you need outside support or training.Focus: Micro-goals protect you from shiny-object syndrome by grounding your actions in purpose.

This approach is what separates successful authors from overwhelmed ones. And it’s one of the core elements of any effective book marketing plan.

A Simple Tool to Put It Into Action

One tool we often recommend to our clients is the Monthly Book Marketing Planner. But here’s the trick: don’t just use one. Print out three to six months’ worth and plot your micro-goals across them. This allows you to visually track your trajectory, stay grounded in your strategy, and resist the chaos of one-off opportunities that can derail your plan.

Think of it like building a staircase to your dream instead of trying to pole-vault over a chasm.

How to Handle Distractions and Opportunities

What about those marketing offers that hit your inbox every week? Social media collabs, podcast interview pitches, discount ad packages—they can be tempting, but they’re also distracting if not vetted strategically.

Here’s our recommendation: create an “Opportunities” folder. Anytime something piques your interest, drop it in there. Then, set aside 30 minutes once a week to evaluate these offers in the context of your current goals. If it doesn’t align, archive it or save it for later. This prevents reactive decisions that eat away at your time and budget.

Real Progress Happens in the Doing

At the end of the day, your book deserves more than an idea graveyard. A focused, intentional book marketing plan is what turns dreams into reality. You might not hit every moonshot goal—but by pursuing them with clarity and action, your book will absolutely go further than it would through brainstorming alone.

So print out those planners. Define your micro-goals. Track your progress. And step out of the idea maze and into forward motion.

Because your book—and your readers—are waiting.

Resources & Free Downloads

Children’s book marketing and tips for summer

Building early reader groups and superfans for longterm success

How to drive more sales if you have a “summer read”

Why brand marketing matters so much more than you realize

Getting more book reviews and why your reaction matters

Check out all the episodes of our book promotion podcast anywhere you listen to podcasts!

Be sure to sign up for our newsletter on the right-hand side of our blog homepage. If you haven’t opened a recent one your registration may have lapsed.

Follow us on Instagram for book marketing tips and some much-needed levity

The post Dreams Need Deadlines: The Path to Real Book Marketing Results appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .

Reading Time: 3 minuteshttps://www.buzzsprout.com/664939/episodes/17504313-your-book-isn-t-enough-how-to-develop-a-platform-media-responds-to.mp3

Publishing a book is a tremendous accomplishment, but in today’s competitive market, it’s no longer enough to automatically position you as an expert. Media outlets and readers alike expect more. If your goal is to secure interviews, features, and speaking opportunities, you need to demonstrate real-world expertise, professional credibility, and a strong author platform.

Why Media Outlets Are Selective

Modern media gatekeepers have become increasingly careful about who they feature. Whether it’s a local paper, podcast, or national TV program, producers want guests who can bring unique insight and proven authority to their audience.

Your book can serve as supporting evidence of your expertise, but it cannot be your only credential. To understand how to get more media coverage, you must first establish yourself as a trusted voice in your field.

Building the Foundation of Your Author Platform

Start by cataloging your professional experience, education, and relevant training. Go deeper than the obvious:

Leadership roles

Public speaking engagements

Awards or honors

Professional memberships or associations

Even credentials that feel tangential can help reinforce your authority and demonstrate your long-term commitment to your subject.

Start Local to Grow National

One of the most effective ways to get more media coverage is to begin with local outlets. Local radio, newspapers, and community TV provide valuable opportunities to practice interviews, refine your messaging, and build your press portfolio.

Success here can snowball into bigger opportunities—media coverage often leads to more media coverage. By the time you pitch national outlets, you’ll already have polished clips to prove your credibility and capability.

Crafting Relevant and Timely Hooks

When pitching media, don’t just focus on your book itself. Instead, ask: How does my expertise connect to what audiences are talking about right now?

Tie your message to:

Seasonal topics (back-to-school, summer travel, holiday stress)

Current events in your field

Broader cultural conversations

Creating these “hooks” ensures journalists see you as a resource for timely stories, not just someone promoting a book.

Timing Is Everything

Media outlets plan weeks or even months ahead. By the time a holiday or seasonal event arrives, it’s too late to pitch. Pay attention to retail and cultural cues—for example, when stores roll out holiday decorations in September, that’s your sign to pitch related content for late fall coverage.

Planning ahead ensures your pitch arrives at the perfect moment for editors and producers.

Prepare Like a Pro

When opportunities come, preparation sets you apart. Practice delivering concise, engaging soundbites that make you memorable. Record yourself answering likely interview questions and evaluate your clarity, energy, and authority.

Avoid rambling or filler words, and focus on short, impactful statements that can stand alone as quotable lines.

Create a Media Kit That Works for You

A professional media kit shows journalists that you’re serious about being a reliable expert. At minimum, your kit should include:

A professional bio

High-resolution headshot

Book details

Defined areas of expertise

Links to past media appearances

By making it easy for the media to vet you, you increase your chances of being chosen over someone who makes the process harder.

Authority Is the Path to More Coverage

If you want to know how to get more media coverage, the answer is simple: build authority, demonstrate credibility, and present yourself professionally. Media opportunities go to those who are prepared, relevant, and trusted.

In the long run, it’s not about publishing as many books as possible—it’s about positioning yourself as the go-to expert in your field. When you invest in building your platform and authority, every media opportunity becomes easier to secure, and your influence grows far beyond the page.

Resources & Free Downloads

What is book bundling and how does it work?

How book marketing fundamentals drive sales.

Avoid these common book title mistakes.

Understand if Kindle Unlimited is right for your book.

How do Amazon ads work for books?

What’s the best pricing strategy to hit a bestseller list?

Check out all the episodes of our book promotion podcast anywhere you listen to podcasts!

Be sure to sign up for our newsletter on the right-hand side of our blog homepage. If you haven’t opened a recent one your registration may have lapsed.

Follow us on Instagram for book marketing tips and some much-needed levity

The post How to Get More Media Coverage: Why Real Authority Matters appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .

Reading Time: 3 minuteshttps://www.buzzsprout.com/664939/episodes/17504317-stop-wasting-money-on-amazon-ads.mp3Why Genre Alignment Matters in Amazon Ads

As authors, we’re often so close to our books that we lose perspective on how they fit into the marketplace. This fundamental disconnect leads to one of the most expensive mistakes in book marketing: targeting the wrong readers with Amazon ads.

The problem is more common than you might think. We’ve observed countless authors investing significant time and money in Amazon ads only to be disappointed with the results. The issue isn’t necessarily poor ad copy or unattractive covers – though those matter too. The core problem is a genre mismatch that puts your book in front of readers who simply aren’t interested in what you’re offering.

The Bookstore Analogy

Think about a physical bookstore for a moment. If you found a tax preparation guide shelved in the health and fitness section, you’d be confused. Yet authors unknowingly do this all the time with their Amazon ads by targeting keywords or categories that don’t truly align with their book’s content or reader expectations.

When this happens, your ads may get impressions and even clicks, but those clicks won’t convert to sales because the readers aren’t finding what they expected.

The Algorithmic Consequences

The consequences go beyond wasted ad spend. Amazon’s algorithm is sophisticated and punishing. When your ads receive clicks but no purchases, Amazon interprets this as your book being irrelevant or low quality. This damages your relevancy score and visibility, making future marketing efforts more difficult and expensive.

This cycle illustrates why paying attention to Amazon ad changes for authors is essential. Every tweak to targeting, category selection, or keyword strategy directly influences how the algorithm views your book.

Genre Confusion Across Fiction and Nonfiction

Genre confusion manifests differently across fiction and non-fiction. In fiction, authors might classify a romantic suspense novel as a thriller, not recognizing that thriller readers expect significantly different levels of tension and suspense.

In non-fiction, a business book for seasoned entrepreneurs might be marketed to beginners, leading to disappointed readers who leave reviews saying “this wasn’t what I expected” – a major red flag that your marketing is misaligned.

Science fiction presents particular challenges with its multitude of sub-genres. Readers who enjoy space operas with alien civilizations may have little interest in near-future dystopian stories set on Earth. As one successful indie author wisely noted at a writers’ conference, you can’t “sell a cat to a dog person” – you need to identify and target the specific reader group for each book you write.

Research Is the First Step

The solution begins with research. Analyze the top 20 books in the category where you believe your book belongs. Does your cover match their style? Do the descriptions share similar tones and highlight comparable elements?

For non-fiction, consider the reader’s current situation and what they hope to gain from your book. A business guide for established companies needs different positioning than one for side-hustlers hoping to quit their day jobs.

Building Smarter Amazon Ad Campaigns

When building your Amazon ad campaigns, start small and focused. Rather than trying to be everything to everyone, identify your core reader group and target them specifically. Use long-tail keywords related to your specific niche rather than broad terms like “mystery” or “business book,” which are not only expensive but attract too broad an audience.

The more precisely you target your ideal readers, the less expensive your ads will be and the better your conversion rate. Keeping an eye on Amazon ad changes for authors will also help you stay ahead of shifts in best practices.

Regular Adjustments Are Essential

Remember that Amazon ads require regular attention and adjustment. What works today might not work six months from now as market conditions change. However, the investment is worthwhile because Amazon ads are one of the few marketing tools that work 24/7, continuously introducing new readers to your book even while you sleep or work on your next manuscript.

The 30-Minute Challenge for Authors

The most valuable step you can take today is to spend 30 minutes studying the bestsellers in your genre and comparing them honestly to your book. Are you really in the right place? If not, consider adjusting your marketing approach, book description, or even cover to better align with reader expectations.

When your Amazon ads target the right readers with the right message, they become one of the most powerful tools in your marketing arsenal rather than a frustrating money pit.

Resources & Free Downloads

What is book bundling and how does it work?

How book marketing fundamentals drive sales.

Avoid these common book title mistakes.

Understand if Kindle Unlimited is right for your book.

How do Amazon ads work for books?

What’s the best pricing strategy to hit a bestseller list?

Check out all the episodes of our book promotion podcast anywhere you listen to podcasts!

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The post Amazon Ads Gone Wrong: The Genre Mismatch Problem Costing Authors appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .