One of the most important aspects of successful book marketing is creating custom marketing messages for your target audience. Today’s blog guides you, step-by-step, on how to create custom marketing messages that resonate with your readers.

Step 1: Know Your Readers

You must understand your target audience before you can create the right marketing messages. Who are they? What are their interests, demographics, and preferences? Several of my prior blogs discussed creating reader personas and using reader personas. Here’s a way to go a step further and visualize your ideal readers.

Example Reader Persona:

Name: Ramona Romance
Age: 30-45
Interests: Historical romance novels
Preferences: Paperbacks, cozy settings

Each time you’re preparing a blog post, social media post, or an email, answer this question first. “Would this post interest Ramona Romance?” If not, make adjustments. Targeting your ideal reader is key.

Step 2: Highlight Unique Selling Points

Every book has something that sets it apart. It could be the unique plot, relatable characters, or your writing style. Identify and emphasize these unique selling points (USPs) in your marketing messages. Your job in marketing is to make a reader feel that they absolutely must read your book. Not just any book – your book. What does your book offer that no other book does?

Example: “Dive into the enchanting world of 19th-century London by following Charles and Isabella’s journey in ‘The Book Title Love.’ Our vivid historical details and timeless love story will transport you to another era.”

Step 3: Create a Catchy Hook

Your custom marketing messages should hook readers’ attention immediately. Use intriguing words, questions, or statements that pique their curiosity. Just as you want to hook a reader with your book, you need to do the same with your marketing messages.

Example: “Uncover the secret that could change the course of history! Are you ready for a thrilling adventure with ‘The Exciting Book Title’?”

Step 4: Solve a Problem or Fulfill a Desire

Address the needs or desires of your target audience. Explain how your book can solve a problem or fulfill a desire. Telling your readers what your book will do for them is far more effective than reciting your book’s synopsis. Solving a problem will lead to interested readers who are more likely to purchase your book and leave a positive review.

Example: “Escape the mundane with our heart-pounding mystery series, perfect for thrill-seekers. ‘Midnight Book Title’ keeps you on the edge of your seat until the end.”

Step 5: Social Proof and Testimonials

Incorporate social proof to build trust. Share positive reviews, ratings, or endorsements from reputable sources or readers. Provide links to your book reviews on sites like Goodreads, Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Did a reader provide a glowing testimonial to you? Include that in your marketing messages.

Example: “Readers across the globe are raving about ‘The Lost Book Title.’ With a 4.9-star rating on Goodreads and praise from The New York Times, you won’t want to miss this masterpiece.”

Step 6: Use Visuals

Visuals can convey the essence of your book and engage your audience. Share eye-catching images, book covers, or teaser videos in your marketing messages. Most readers notice colors and images before they read the words. Create something that draws them in.

Check out this blog for information on how to craft a visual identity for your author brand.

Example: “Behold the enchanting cover of ‘The Book Title Dreams’ – a breathtaking fantasy world awaits you. Are you ready to explore?”

Step 7: Limited-Time Offers

Create a sense of urgency by giving limited time offers, discounts, or bonuses. Encourage readers to take immediate action. You can easily do this via email, social media, or by using a pop-up on your website or blog.

Example: “For a limited time, get ‘Chronicles of The Book Title’ for only $0.99 and receive a bonus short story. Don’t miss out on this special deal!”

Creating custom, compelling marketing messages is a necessary skill for self-published authors. By following the steps outlined here, you can better engage your readers and boost your book’s visibility.