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As an expert, you’ve spent years building your network. From newsletter subscribers and social media followers to clients and professional connections, you’ve engaged, offered value, and built relationships. When it comes time to publish your book, your network is the single most valuable promotional tool at your disposal. If you can effectively harness their influence and support, you can achieve a stellar launch and sustain your book sales for the long-term.

Your network consists of a variety of connections with different levels of influence. Start by segmenting your network to tailor your outreach appropriately. Consider the ways that these groups of individuals can best support you and your book.

1. People in your close network who will commit to posting a book review on Amazon the week of publication.

This group is made of close personal and professional connections who will be enthusiastic about your new book and help to generate Amazon reviews, which fuel Amazon’s recommendation algorithm and help connect your book with new readers. Reach out to them 6-8 weeks in advance of publication by offering a physical copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. You should aim to have books delivered 4 weeks in advance of publication and remember to send them a personalized follow-up to ensure that they received the book and are ready with their review the week of publication. Be sure to send a thank-you note after publication to share any wins (like achieving Amazon bestseller status) that they contributed to.

2. People in your close network with a large network of their own who will commit to sharing on social media, in their newsletter, or otherwise promote to their community during the week of publication.

This is another group made of close personal and professional connections, but they have a level of influence in a similar space that makes asking for their support in the form of social shares and newsletter mentions the best and highest ask. Reach out to them 6-8 weeks in advance of publication by asking if they will commit to sharing your book with their network and when is the best time for them to do so. Provide them with a copy of the book, pre-written copy and graphics, and any other support that they need to make sharing easy. Be sure to offer reciprocal shares if they have a book or product to promote.

3. People in your larger social network who you can encourage to buy, share, review, and create consumer buzz the week of publication.

This group of subscribers and followers values your expertise and can act as your street team with the right communication strategy. Get them excited about the release of your book by offering advance reader copies; making exclusive downloads or other value-ads available to those who place an order; giving them easy ways to share your message through giveaways, graphics, and dedicated hashtags; and letting them know how much a review means to the success of the book come publication. Begin engaging with this group 6-8 weeks in advance of publication to build momentum and pre-orders to ensure that they have books in hand come publication week.

The above are just three examples of how Greenleaf authors have successfully engaged their networks, but the possibilities are endless. Consider other groups within your network who may be interested in:

● Bulk sales

● Pre-orders

● Hosting book clubs

● Promoting and attending book signings and other author events (see this article for hosting a book launch party)

Use these strategies to tap into the power of your author network, turn connections into readers, build buzz around your book, and expand your reach and influence.