Book launch parties are, traditionally, just that: a party. There’s food (everyone comes for food!). There’s something to drink (alcoholic or not, depending on the venue). There’s a reading from the book and hopefully people around who have read it to add their testimonials. And, of course, everyone attending is expected to at least consider buying a copy. Invitations are sent out, a press release is given to the media, Facebook status updates reflect the upcoming celebration.
So far, so good.
But these days you don’t want a local — or, perhaps, only a local — book launch party. Your audience is all over the world, and letting that world know that your book is available is not only a smart business move, it’s a necessary one. And you do remember that writers have to be businesspeople these days, don’t you?
So how do you throw an online book launch party?
I’d love to hear your suggestions. I know that a lot of you have had successful online book launches and would love to post your tips here. In the meantime, here are a few of my own:
- use social media sites to generate anticipation and excitement about the event
- host the party on your website or blog
- host the party as a webinar (you can get a free trial account at WebEx or Go To Webinar) so that you have the most interaction possible
- make sure you have giveaways, since you have no food or drink to offer
- have a book trailer or video available to show on the webinar or at your website. These are becoming more and more de rigeur and can eventually go viral on YouTube
There’s a start. What else? Let me know your techniques and ideas, and then you’ll be … beyond the elements of style!
