By Adam Cothes

When you’re preparing to launch your new book, consider giving away several hundred copies. I know, it may sound counterproductive when you’re trying to figure out how to sell your book. However, never underestimate the power of giving away books; it can be a great way to connect to readers and may build long-term sales.

Consider this example. Well-known novelist, Mary DeMuth, has been published by Christian royalty publishers, and her sales are normally quite strong. In fact, she told me her latest book, Daisy Chain sold 16,000 copies and went through three printings in just a few months.

How did she do it? She gave away books to get the word out to lots of people fast.

Mary mailed 250 “influencer copies” of Daisy Chain to people who would tell lots of other people about her book.

She used her blog to find out who wanted to be an influencer, and in doing so asked questions that would help her determine who would be effective and who had built-in audiences. Those that qualified included people such as online bloggers with a steady readership, youth leaders, book reviewers, or pastors.

While you may not have the name recognition of this author, you can still apply this concept in some way.

Ask yourself: What can I do to build word-of-mouth buzz?

You may not know 250 influencers, but you may be able to meet new people who influence or know others and would love a free copy of your book. Just as in business, word-of-mouth is some of the best free advertising you can get.

These are the types of concepts our Publicity Department brainstorms with authors to chart out the best promotion course. Our team helps our authors decide what ideas will and won’t work for their specific books, so they can focus their energy on the most effective book promotions for them.

Adam Cothes works in various aspects of publicity, advertising and marketing in the WinePress Publicity Department. He also helps new authors get starting with the publishing process.