Marketing for authors means finding your reader before you write, publish, and market your book. Before you write your book, it’s important to know who you’re going to sell it to. Understanding your audience and knowing your book is not for everyone is key. In order to get people to buy your book you need to focus on identifying, serving, and engaging your ideal reader, as well as building confidence in selling to them.

If you need support understanding how to find your reader and presell your book inside of the Preorder Profits™ Accelerator: www.PreorderProfits.com/join. This group coaching program walks you through the process of having a successful preorder form start to finish by showing how to grow your audience, build a buzz, and cover your self publishing costs BEFORE you release.

(VIP day and course only options available as well.)

Takeaways

• Understanding your audience is crucial
• Your book is not for everyone
• Your readers are looking for you. Be sure to focus on them and not everyone else.
  

Chapters

• 00:00 The Importance of Understanding Your Audience
• 06:09 Serving Your Ideal Reader
• 12:05 Engaging Your Ideal Reader
• 18:06 Being in Alignment with Your Ideal Reader
• 24:05 Serving Your Ideal Reader Effectively
  

Resource(s) Mentioned:

• Preorder Profits™ Accelerator https://www.preorderprofits.com/join - This group coaching program walks you through the process of having a successful preorder form start to finish by showing how to grow your audience, build a buzz, and cover your self publishing costs BEFORE you release.
  

Connect with Ashley D. Shepard on social media:

• Website: www.sheppublishinghouse.com
• Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShepPublishing
• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@sheppublishing
• Instagram: www.Instagram.com/sheppublishing
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-d-shepard
• Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sheppublishing

Subscribe to Profitable Publishing™ on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!

Preorders for authors, audience engagement, book marketing, author strategies, reader insights, profitable publishing, self-publishing, book research, marketing strategies, ideal reader

How do I have a successful preorder for my book?

How do I set up a preorder for my self-published book?

Should I host my book preorder on Amazon?

How do I sell book preorders on my website?

How do I increase book sales before my launch?

How do I use a book preorder to cover publishing costs?

What mistakes do authors make with book preorders?

Why is my Amazon KDP preorder not selling?

How do I use my book preorder to grow my audience?

The best way to sell your book is to tell people about it before you publish. Author marketing doesn’t start when your book is out. This is especially true when you’re building a brand or business. In this episode, you’ll learn about the best times to start your marketing, how preorders play an important role in the process, and how your capacity affects the whole marketing process. Waiting until your book is fully done is blocking sales and increasing your stress when it comes to your book launch and release. Use these strategies to know when to start your launch and preorder.

TAKEAWAYS:

• Best time to start your marketing
• How preorder timing affects your launch
• Why you should start your marketing before your book is done

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction

00:29 The Importance of Early Marketing

01:24 Factors Influencing Book Launch Timing

03:45 Understanding Your Capacity for Marketing

06:27 Building Your Audience Before Launch

09:44 The Fallacy of 'If You Build It, They Will Come'

11:38 Engaging Your Audience During the Writing Process

14:33 Maximizing Pre-Order Opportunities

18:14 When to Start Your Marketing

21:22 Strategic Marketing Timing for Success

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

→Join the Preorder Profits™ 4 Day Challenge to find out preorder mistakes and success strategies: www.PreorderProfits.com

→ CONNECT WITH ASHLEY D. SHEPARD:

Website: www.sheppublishinghouse.com/contact

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShepPublishing

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@sheppublishing

Instagram: www.Instagram.com/sheppublishing

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-d-shepard

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sheppublishing

ABOUT THIS PODCAST:

Profitable Publishing® is the podcast for coaches, consultants, speakers, and service providers who want to package their expertise into a profitable book to build their brands, attract clients, and create multiple income streams.

Subscribe to Profitable Publishing® on your favorite podcast platform, and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!

When I start marketing my book?

How do I sell book preorders on my website?

How do I get paid faster for my book preorder?

How do I increase book sales before my launch?

How do I use a book preorder to cover publishing costs?

What mistakes do authors make with book preorders?

Why is my Amazon KDP preorder not selling?

Why should I not use Amazon for my book preorder?

How do I build an email list as a self-published author?

How do I use my book preorder to grow my audience?

Instead of assuming Amazon KDP is the only option for your preorder, find out about the drawbacks of using the platform for your initial sales and learn about another option that’s a better choice for most independently published authors.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:

• The biggest mistake when hosting a preorder
• Which platform gives the most access to learn about readers
• Which platform I don’t recommend for preorders
• Why most indie or self published authors shouldn’t choose Amazon KDP for their preorder
  

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Introduction

01:25 Understanding Preorder Goals

03:05 The Amazon Preorder Misconception

06:51 Why Not to Use Amazon for Preorders

11:46 Success Stories: Alternative Preorder Strategies

14:32 The Drawbacks of Amazon KDP

21:16 Benefits of Hosting Preorders on Your Website

28:12 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

→Join the Preorder Profits™ Challenge to find out preorder mistakes and success strategies: www.PreorderProfits.com

→ Order your copy of Profitable Publishing™ with Preorders to learn this strategy start to finish - www.PreorderProfits.com/book

CONNECT WITH ASHLEY D. SHEPARD:

Website: www.sheppublishinghouse.com/contact

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShepPublishing

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@sheppublishing

Instagram: www.Instagram.com/sheppublishing

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-d-shepard

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sheppublishing

ABOUT THIS PODCAST:

Profitable Publishing® is the podcast for coaches, consultants, speakers, and service providers who want to package their expertise into a profitable book to build their brands, attract clients, and create multiple income streams.

Subscribe to Profitable Publishing® on your favorite podcast platform, and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!

How do I set up a preorder for my self-published book?

Should I host my book preorder on Amazon?

How do I sell book preorders on my website?

Can you do a paperback preorder on Amazon KDP?

When do you get paid for Amazon KDP preorders?

How do I get paid faster for my book preorder?

How do I increase book sales before my launch?

How do I use a book preorder to cover publishing costs?

What mistakes do authors make with book preorders?

Why is my Amazon KDP preorder not selling?

Can Amazon ban you from doing preorders?

Why should I not use Amazon for my book preorder?

How do I build an email list as a self-published author?

How do I use my book preorder to grow my audience?

Your goal as an author is to write a book readers can’t put down so they turn into clients. In this episode, you’ll learn a strategy of how to write a business book people will read. Use touchpoints to keep reader attention, support learning, and gather reader details for business insights.

TAKEAWAYS

• Include interactive touchpoints in your book increases engagement and comprehension.
• Touch points help with lead generation
• Short attention spans require concise, engaging content.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction

02:37 The Captivate Method Explained

05:41 Engagement Strategies for Readers

08:15 Implementing Touch Points in Your Book

10:53 Examples of Effective Touch Points

13:30 Gathering Reader Feedback and Data

16:33 Final Thoughts on Reader Engagement

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

→Apply to the Profitable Publishing™ Partner Service to outline, write, publish, and launch your book tied to your business or brand. https://www.ProfitableSelfPublishing.com/Partner

CONNECT WITH ASHLEY D. SHEPARD:

Website: www.sheppublishinghouse.com/contact

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShepPublishing

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@sheppublishing

Instagram: www.Instagram.com/sheppublishing

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-d-shepard

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sheppublishing

Subscribe to Profitable Publishing™ on your favorite podcast platform, and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!

ABOUT THIS PODCAST:

Profitable Publishing™ is the podcast for coaches, consultants, speakers, and service providers who want to package their expertise into a profitable book to build their brands, attract clients, and create multiple income streams.

How to write a nonfiction book readers will actually finish

How to write an engaging nonfiction book

How to make your nonfiction book more reader friendly

How to keep readers engaged in a business book

How to write a business book people will read

How to write a book to generate leads as a coach or consultant

How to use your book as a lead generation tool

How to leverage your business book to get coaching clients

How to use a self-published book to attract clients

How to write a nonfiction book for coaches and consultants

How to use your book to build authority and get clients

How to write a lead magnet book for your business

How to use a book to grow your coaching business

Self-publishing a book to grow your consulting business

How to write a book that builds your authority as a coach

How to get clients from a self-published book

Book launching while self publishing takes careful planning and strategy. First time author Veronica H. Moore shares her journey using preorder strategies during her book launch to generate $4k in 4 hours once opening her presale. impact of working with Shep Publishing House.

She highlights the importance of authentic storytelling, the value of concise and practical information, and the impact of launch strategies on her success. Veronica also emphasizes the personal touches and coaching style of Shep Publishing House as key factors in her positive experience.

Join the 4 Day Preorder Profits™ Challenge to learn about the top preorder mistakes and success strategies. Secure your spot here: www.PreorderProfits.com

Takeaways

• Preorder strategies for book launches
• Authentic storytelling and personal touches
• Impact of launch strategies on success
• Value of concise and practical information
• Coaching style and approach of Shep Publishing House

Chapters

00:00 Intro
04:33 Transformative Mindset Shifts
07:22 Celebrating Wins and Successes
11:31 The Power of Authenticity in Marketing
14:15 Investing in Your Author Journey
18:23 Personal Touches in Coaching

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

→Join the Preorder Profits™ Challenge to find out preorder mistakes and success strategies: www.PreorderProfits.com

→ Order your copy of Profitable Publishing™ with Preorders to learn this strategy start to finish - www.PreorderProfits.com/book

CONNECT WITH ASHLEY D. SHEPARD:

Website: www.sheppublishinghouse.com/contact

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShepPublishing

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@sheppublishing

Instagram: www.Instagram.com/sheppublishing

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-d-shepard

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sheppublishing

Subscribe to Profitable Publishing™ on your favorite podcast platform, and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!

Book sales strategy Author marketing, marketing for authors, self publishing, publishing, book marketing, author strategies, profitable publishing, book research, marketing strategies, ideal reader, marketing strategies, author strategies, book marketing, branding

How to host a preorder

How do I market my self published book?

What are some preorder success strategies?

What are the best book marketing and tips and strategies?

How to be successful as a first time author

Self publishing success tips

Business owners, speakers, authors, and coaches face thousands of choices a day. Whether it’s software related to what’s the next book to publish, in this episode Ashley discusses the common struggle of indecision faced by authors and marketers. She shares personal experiences and strategies to overcome imposter syndrome, emphasizing the importance of recognizing fears around publishing mistakes, consistency, and perfectionism. Ashley encourages listeners to take actionable steps to alleviate fears and make decisions. The episode concludes with practical strategies for moving from indecision to action.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:

• Indecision often stems from fear of perception.
• Perfectionism can slow down progress.
• Your only competition is yourself.
• Focus on personal growth.
• Act before opportunities pass you by.
• Connect with your audience outside of social media.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Introduction

00:00 Overcoming Indecision in Publishing

09:00 Strategies to Combat Perfectionism

18:02 Decisive Action: Steps to Move Forward

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

→ Profitable Publishing™ with Preorders: www.PreorderProfits.com/Book

→ Reach out via DM to let me know what you’re trying to decide on your author journey. Choose from Facebook or Instagram.

Connect with Ashley D. Shepard on social media:

Website: www.sheppublishinghouse.com

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShepPublishing

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@sheppublishing

Instagram: www.Instagram.com/sheppublishing

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-d-shepard

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sheppublishing

Subscribe to Profitable Publishing™ on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!

publishing, audience engagement, book marketing, author strategies, reader insights, profitable publishing, self-publishing, book research, marketing strategies, ideal reader, marketing strategies, analysis paralysis, decision making, perfectionism, imposter syndrome, author strategies, book marketing

Traditional vs self publishing

Should I self publish?

How to Overcome Fear self publishing?

Marketing for authors doesn’t just mean selling your book after it’s released. Before you write your book, it’s important to know who you’re going to sell it to. This starts with finding out who your reader is and what they prefer. Whether you're navigating self publishing or working with an independent consultant, understanding your readers is essential for success. Ashley shares practical tips on researching your audience through direct engagement, online tools, and community involvement to tailor your book marketing effectively.

The conversation also highlights the importance of leveraging trends and keywords in your publishing and marketing efforts. Ashley explains how authors can use feedback to refine their work and enhance connections with their readers.

Tune in to learn actionable strategies that will help you connect with your audience and grow your book sales. This episode is packed with expert advice to elevate your marketing for the author's journey and boost your publishing success.

Takeaways

• Your book should target a specific audience, not everyone.
• Research your audience before writing your book.
• Speak directly with potential readers to understand their needs.
• Join community groups on your book’s topic to observe and gather insights.
• Feedback from readers can help refine your book's content.
• Your book should serve the needs of your readers.

Chapters

• 00:00 Finding Your Reader: The Foundation of Profitable Publishing
• 05:11 Understanding Your Audience: Research and Engagement
• 09:53 The Importance of Pre-Research Before Writing
• 14:43 Utilizing Online and Offline Spaces for Audience Insights
• 19:40 Analyzing Trends and Feedback for Book Development
• 23:59 Creating Value Through Your Book: Blueprint vs. Starting Point
• 28:29 Join the Pre-Order Profits Challenge: Next Steps for Authors

Resources Mentioned:

• Preorder Profits™ Challenge https://www.preorderprofits.com - learn preorder mistakes to avoid to generate income before your book releases.

Connect with Ashley D. Shepard on social media:

Website: www.sheppublishinghouse.com

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShepPublishing

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@sheppublishing

Instagram: www.Instagram.com/sheppublishing

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-d-shepard

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sheppublishing

Subscribe to Profitable Publishing™ on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!

publishing, audience engagement, book marketing, author strategies, reader insights, profitable publishing, self-publishing, book research, marketing strategies, ideal reader

This episode focuses on Amazon bestseller status particularly focusing on its relevance for coaches, consultants, and service providers. When marketing for authors, bestseller status should align with individual goals and the overall strategy of using a book to attract clients and generate leads. The conversation explores the realities of achieving Amazon bestseller status, the importance of building relationships with readers, and the need to focus on generating income through products and services tied to the book rather than solely on book sales. Ashley invites listeners to consider the long-term impact of their work.

Takeaways:

• Why bestseller status should not be your only or main goal
• Why focusing on using your book to attract clients is a better use of your time
• How the income potential from your book is more impactful than just bestseller status
• Why Amazon Bestseller status makes it harder to building relationships with readers

• 00:00 Introduction to Bestseller Status
• 02:42 The Overrated Nature of Bestseller Status
• 05:53 Understanding Amazon Bestseller Status
• 08:40 The Importance of Goals in Publishing
• 11:49 Building Relationships Over Status
• 14:21 Realistic Expectations for Authors
• 17:01 Legacy and Impact Beyond Sales
• 22:59 Conclusion and Invitation to Profitable Publishing Live
  

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

→ Profitable Publishing™ LIVE 2 Day Intensive (Feb 12th and 13th, 2026): Learn how to write, publish, and market a book that packages your expertise into a client attracting resource www.ProfitableSelfPublishing.com/Live (Use code PODCAST at checkout for a special discount).

→ Publisher Rocket: Find out how many books needed to reach best seller status https://publisherrocket.cartknox.com/buy-rocket?aff=240 (affiliate link)

→ Profitable Publishing™ with Preorders: www.PreorderProfits.com/Book

CONNECT WITH Ashley D. Shepard on social media:

Website: www.sheppublishinghouse.com

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShepPublishing

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@sheppublishing

Instagram: www.Instagram.com/sheppublishing

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-d-shepard

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sheppublishing

Subscribe to Profitable Publishing™ on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review if you found this episode helpful!

bestseller status, profitable publishing, book marketing, lead generation, author goals, Amazon bestseller, coaching, consulting, book sales, client attraction