Tips for Selling Books at In-person Events

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I do a lot of book festivals and events where authors sell books. Here are some things I’ve learned over the years.

  • Always bring extra books (even if a book seller is handling the sales and orders). You never know when a shipment is delayed or you sell out.

  • Think of ways to make your table/display interesting and inviting to visitors. Always bring a tablecloth. Sometimes, they are not provided.

  • Don’t put hundreds of books on the table. You always want to create the idea that they’re “getting books while they last.”

  • Avoid big banners or tall displays that block you from buyers’ views (especially if you’re short like me). You don’t want to look like you’re hiding behind stacks of books, banners, or shelves.

  • Have small give-aways, bookmarks, and postcards to offer guests. I’ve had chocolate melt before, so I don’t usually do candy. I find something that’s related to my series and buy little party favors. For my Mermaid Bay series, I have mermaid items or plastic figures of sea creatures. Kids and adults love looking through my bowl of sea creatures to find their favorites. I also have sparkly pearly bracelets for my Pearly Girls mysteries.

  • I find the longer folks are at my table, the more likely they’ll look at my books. Have your elevator speech and your tag lines in your head and ready to go.

  • I talk to everyone. (And yes, sometimes, I get questions about things like “where is the bathroom or drink machine.”)

  • You don’t know who will go home and buy an ebook or an audio book. I give everyone bookmarks, so they can find my series easily.

  • Ask casual lookers what they like to read or about their favorite books. People are usually willing to share.

  • Stand up and greet people. Watch your body language. If you look angry or stand-offish, people are less likely to approach.

  • Smile. It always makes you look friendlier.

  • Avoid scrolling on your phone. You look busy, bored, or approachable.

  • Have change, QR codes to your pay apps, or your credit card readers ready. Sometimes, the WiFi is spotty. Be prepared and ready.

  • If you can, offer a deal if people buy more than one of your books.

What would you add to my list?