Get Your Self-Published Book into Large Retail Chains by Starting Small

We love ebooks and the unbeatable accessibility and immediacy of downloadable books, but there’s just something about seeing your own work on an actual, physical store shelf that is so appealing — to you and to your potential readers.

So, how do you get your self-published book one of those highly coveted spots? The short answer: one step at a time. Try these step-by-step strategies to get closer to your bookstore goals:

• Start with online and in-person sales. Sell at book fairs, on your social media sites, at local events and any place you can set up a table and take payment.
• Market. Set up a clear plan for marketing and publicizing your book so you can gather interest and increase sales.
• Establish that your book is desirable. Track every sale and look for patterns of growth.
• Take your sales figures on the road. Once you’ve established that you have, or are heading toward, positive sales trends, start talking to local bookstores, seeking a commitment to carry your book.
• Tailor your product. Armed with your bookstore commitments, work with your self publishing company to change your trade discount and retail price, and add retail returns, so bookstores can carry your book.
• Expand to larger markets. Put together a proposal to submit to bookstore contacts and approach larger markets about getting your self-published book on their shelves.

Getting into big retail stores may seem a simple process, but it’s by no means an easy one. However, if you keep your eye on the big picture and work consistently toward your goal, it’s doable.

ABOUT JODEE THAYER: With over 20 years of experience in sales and management, Jodee Thayer works as the Manager of Author Services for Outskirts Press. The Author Services Department is composed of knowledgeable customer service reps and publishing consultants; together, they all focus on educating authors on the self-publishing process in order to help them publish the book of their dreams. Whether you are a professional looking to take your career to the next level with platform-driven non-fiction or a novelist seeking fame, fortune, and/or personal fulfillment, Jodee Thayer can put you on the right path.