Top Book Marketing Trends to Expect in 2023

Top Book Marketing Trends to Expect in 2023 is penned by Margot Huntleigh

Authors in the country are increasing. In 2021, 49,410 writers and authors were recorded—a 5,000 growth from 2020. This increase may confuse others, as it’s a common conception that authors struggle to make a living. Still, those who get their big breaks can rake in an income.

Another common impression is that an author’s job stops at publishing their work. This is not the case: a book needs to be promoted for it to sell. Book marketing is crucial for authors to get a shot at their big break, or to simply have the right audience buy and enjoy their book. One way to succeed in book marketing is to follow current trends and start as early as possible. Below are a few to watch out for in 2023:

Marketing through book influencers

This is one relatively new digital marketing trend expected to carry into next year. These are people on social media (usually Instagram and TikTok) who post book content such as reviews and recommendations. Marketing your book through them brings in a big audience because of their huge following. However, much like how you conduct research when writing, you must do the same when considering this strategy. After all, approaching a book influencer who mainly reads romance to promote your sci-fi masterpiece won’t work as effectively. Consulting an advertising or marketing professional who is well-versed in liberal studies can provide you with expertise in data analysis and decision-making—both of which are useful in research and book marketing. Their education also ensures that they have a deep understanding of literature thus, they’ll be able to advise you on the best marketing decisions. For instance, they’ll recommend certain book influencers who fit your genre and will promote your book well, resulting in successful marketing.

More in-person and virtual author events

Popular examples of author events are book signings, Q&As, and readings. These provide you with the opportunity to interact with supporters and media to promote your book. For example, a reading gives them a preview of what’s to come, influencing their decision to buy your work. A Q&A can supply them with the behind-the-scenes of your writing process, which they can look back on when they start reading your novel. In 2023, these events are likely to further aid in book marketing beyond social media (in-person) by helping you reach a wider local and international audience (virtual). For better chances of success, consider doing both.

Hybrid and self-publishing methods

Hybrid publishing and self-publishing are becoming more common among writers. One reason for this is the marketing methods it offers. Both hybrid publishing and self-publishing methods will require that you do some aspects on your own. Hybrid provides marketing, editing, and design services, but a huge part of promotion will be your responsibility. Meanwhile, self-publishing means shouldering every aspect from writing and publishing to marketing and promoting. Hybrid is more convenient, although it also means splitting sales with the company. Self-publishing is more difficult, but you get 100% of the royalties. Go for this if you’ve written a book that will sell well. Research and acquire marketing knowledge, so you don’t go in blindly.

Technology Trends

Technology is slowing creeping into the marketing and promotional playbooks of many authors making it easier to get exposure. But with all opportunities come a need for authors to take a hard look at what services are being offered and any costs or subscriptions involved. Make sure you do your research to see how they can help before you sign up.

Hiring book marketing services

For authors who want additional marketing or do not know where to start, there are professionals offering their services for this very reason. Book marketing services have been an option for writers, and this trend will continue in 2023. But the challenge of finding qualified and ethical marketing professionals remains. The ideal book marketing expert should have first-hand experience in the self-publishing process to understand the emotions behind bringing a book to market. If they have walked in your shoes they will know what is involved in bringing a book to market, and the overall experience should be better. Hire their services if you need that extra book marketing push.

Book marketing plays a part in your success as an author. Look out for these trends in the next few months and utilize them for the benefit of your career.