If you've ever done a fundraiser, then you can promote your book

Congratulation!  You've done it!  NaNo is over and it is time to start editing, but before revision, it might be a good idea to think about marketing.  That's right marketing.  It is never too early to start "selling" your book.

For some of us, writing is the easy part, but "selling" ourselves is a bit trickier.  So, what to do?

Well, if you've ever done fundraisers, then you already know how to promote products.  I found this out recently.  I won a signing competition allowing me to perform as a Tenor at Carnegie Hall.  The catch?  I have to pay my way.  That's when it hit me.  Fundraising and promoting books are pretty similar.  Here's what I learned:

1. Start early - get the word out there to create interest in your project so people have time to think
    about it.

2. Establish goals and timelines

3. Try many methods - social media, online, cold calls, etc.

4. Promote

    * Post signs, flyers, and posters
    * Write a press release to the local newspaper, radio station, and television station

5. Use friends as network

6. Have a party or book launch

7. Be professional

8. Be friendly.  Smile.  Be ready to talk about yourself.

9. Set up a table at a craft fair, library fair, grocery store, and the following:

     * Stand so that you are easy to see and approach
     * Bring a blown up poster that can be seen from far away
     * Decorate table to attract interest
     * Have giveaways like bookmarks, pens, or candy

These are jus a few examples.  What works for you?