Bookmarks - An Inexpensive Marketing Tool for Authors
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Everybody likes give-aways. Make sure that you have bookmarks to hand out at your events. I always give them out to everyone I talk with. Many times, I’ve seen a spike in ebooks after the event.
Here are some things I've learned over the years.
Pick a size that works for you and fits the size of your book.
Order enough to be economical (printing and shipping costs), but not so you have thousands to store.
Make the cover, your name, your story's title, and website large enough to read.
Use matching or complimentary colors. There are plenty of free color wheels online that will help you see what works with the colors you choose.
If you add pull quotes or story summaries, make them short enough to be readable. Eight-point type is too small. Less is better when you're working in a small space.
Use the back to promote your other books. That way, visitors know what else you write.
If this is your first publication, use the back to promote your blog and social media sites.
Make sure the any pictures (including the book cover) you add to the bookmark are in proportion. The book cover should be a rectangle. Use a high-resolution graphic. Most graphic design programs will let you hold down the shift key as you resize a graphic go keep it proportional.
If you include an author picture, make sure it’s recent and professional. Selfies may not have the resolution that you want when the bookmarks are printed.
I use NextDayFlyers because they have sizes that work for me. There are lots of companies out there. Shop around and look for discount codes.
I add bookmarks to any give-aways that I happen to do. A little book swag is always a nice surprise.
Many of your independent bookstores or libraries will give away your bookmarks. Ask if you can leave a few when you visit.
What else would you add to my list? Happy reading!
