I recently held a book signing at Barnes & Noble Bookstore. It was fun and I even sold some books! I’d like to share a few things I learned.
First, be sure the store has access to your books! As a self-published author, it is your responsibility to check to see if your books are available for bookstores to purchase. In my case, they were unable to get the paperback versions, but did purchase some hardback copies.
Second, if you have recently updated or revised your book in any way, be sure that you have allowed enough time for your printer to send the latest version to the bookstore. I had updated my book the month before my signing, but apparently the “old” copies were still available at the time the store ordered copies. Luckily, the major change–to the book cover– wasn’t really drastic, so the books are still saleable!
Third, remember that even if people do not buy your book the day of the signing, they will remember you and may purchase your book later. Take bookmarks, business cards, or flyers to hand out during the event. Be approachable. Smile and greet everyone you see. Answer their questions. Be gracious and they will respond in kind.
Lastly, if you have written other books, ask if you can also sell them during the event. Barnes and Noble allowed me to display and sell copies I had brought with me. I kept an itemized list of each book sold. The buyers paid at the register. At the end of the event, the store kept their 40% cut and I received the rest.
I hope these tips can help you to hold a successful event of your own. Please feel free to comment below or email me at kay8mcp@gmail.com if you have any questions.
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