Level Up Your Book Sales: Social Media And Websites For Indie Authors

If you're an indie author looking to level up your book sales, discover how combining a website with social media will get your career flying.

JJ Barnes

3/4/20253 min read

As the internet is now the primary source of information and shopping, the playing field for authors has radically shifted. Self-publishing has opened doors, but getting your book noticed in a sea of titles requires more than just a great story. Indie authors need to become their own marketing machines, and social media combined with a custom website are your most powerful tools.

Social Media: Your Direct Line to Readers

Social media isn't just for sharing cat videos; it's a vital platform for building an author brand and connecting with potential readers. Here's how:

  • Targeted Engagement: Identify your ideal reader and focus on platforms they frequent. Engage in relevant conversations, join genre-specific groups, and participate in online book clubs.

  • Content is King: Share snippets of your writing, behind-the-scenes glimpses into your process, and engaging visuals related to your book's themes. Run polls, ask questions, and create interactive content to keep your audience interested.

  • Author Authenticity: Let your personality shine! Readers connect with genuine voices. Share your passions, your challenges, and your journey as an author.

  • Paid Advertising: Utilize platform-specific advertising to reach a wider audience. Target your ads based on demographics, interests, and keywords relevant to your book.

  • Collaborate with Bookstagrammers and BookTubers: Partner with influencers in the book community to review your book and promote it to their followers.

Your Author Website: The Hub of Your Online Presence

While social media is excellent for engagement, a custom website provides a central hub for all your author-related activities. It's your online storefront and a place to showcase your brand.

  • Professional Presentation: A well-designed website lends credibility to your work. It shows readers you're a serious author.

  • Book Information and Excerpts: Provide detailed information about your books, including summaries, reviews, and sample chapters.

  • Direct Sales: Integrate an e-commerce platform to sell your books directly to readers, bypassing third-party fees.

  • Email List Building: Offer exclusive content or giveaways in exchange for email sign-ups. Build a mailing list to stay in touch with your readers and promote new releases.

  • Author Blog: Share your thoughts on writing, your research process, and topics related to your books. This establishes you as an expert and keeps readers engaged.

  • Contact and Media Kit: Make it easy for readers, reviewers, and media outlets to contact you.

  • SEO Optimization: Ensure your website is optimized for search engines so potential readers can easily find you.

Affordable and Effective Website Design with McKinney's Website Design

For indie authors on a budget, creating a professional website can seem daunting. That's where McKinney's Website Design comes in. They specialize in providing custom-designed and affordable websites tailored to the unique needs of authors. Their expertise ensures your website not only looks great but also functions effectively to connect you with your readers.

The Power Pack: Premium Book Promotion & a Professional Online Home

For a total investment of just £250, indie authors can significantly boost their visibility and build a strong online presence with this combined offer from The Table Read Magazine and McKinney's Website Design. Here's what's included:

1. Three Premium Book Promotion Articles on The Table Read Magazine:

  • Increased Exposure:

    • The Table Read Magazine provides a platform to showcase your book to a dedicated audience of readers and book enthusiasts.

    • Three separate articles offer sustained visibility, allowing you to highlight different aspects of your book or author journey.

  • Enhanced Credibility:

    • Being featured in an online magazine adds a layer of professional validation to your work.

    • These articles can serve as valuable promotional material to share on your social media and website.

  • Targeted Reach:

    • The magazine's readership likely includes individuals actively seeking new books and authors to discover, increasing the likelihood of reaching your ideal audience.

2. A Custom-Designed Website from McKinney's Website Design:

  • Professional Online Presence:

    • A custom-designed website creates a central hub for your author brand, providing a polished and professional image.

    • It allows you to showcase your books, author bio, and other relevant information in a visually appealing and organized manner.

  • Direct Connection with Readers:

    • Your website can include features like a contact form, email signup, and blog, enabling you to build a direct relationship with your readers.

  • Marketing and Sales Platform:

    • The website can be used to promote your books, share excerpts, and even facilitate direct sales.

  • Affordable Solution:

    • McKinney's Website Design specializes in providing affordable website solutions, making it accessible to indie authors with limited budgets.

The Combined Benefit:

This package deal offers a synergistic approach to book promotion. The Table Read Magazine articles drive traffic and awareness, while the custom website provides a destination for interested readers to learn more and connect with the author. This combination maximizes the impact of your marketing efforts, helping you reach a wider audience and build a lasting author brand.

In essence, for £250, an author recieves marketing promotion, and a location for that marketing to lead potential customers.

Putting It All Together

Social media and a custom website work in tandem to amplify your reach. Use social media to drive traffic to your website, and use your website to capture email addresses and build a loyal readership.

By strategically utilizing these tools, indie and self-published authors can significantly increase their book sales and build a thriving author career.