How much does it cost to launch and market a non fiction book nationally?

Answer 1

Time = Money.

Launching a book nationally consists of hundreds of hours spent doing interviews, blogging, setting up joint ventures and hundreds of other tactics to get your message above the "noise". If you have $20,000 to $50,000, you can hire a good PR firm to help with this. Some authors do it all themselves for free.

If you are patient with yourself, you can strategically launch your message, publish your book and get national exposure. There are two basic paths to launching a book. Each path has a host of variables to consider.

1. Traditional publishing. When you use a publisher, they have the ability to move your book nationally through their distribution channels at major and minor book stores across the country. This channel had a 100% lock on authors until the advent of the internet. Traditional publishing is rapidly changing, but shows no immediate signs of falling apart. The 'cartel' of publishers are not immune to Amazon, blogs, and online opportunities. Rather, they employ those channels in addition to retail outlets. All major authors who have six and seven figure deals are courted by the major publishers. With the THOUSANDS of publishers out there, there are a small handful that have the relationships with the retail outlets. This relationship effectively requires an agent and a traditional publisher.

An agent is required because out of every 10,000 unsolicited manuscripts submitted to publishers, 3 are selected. Agents are the only viable method to getting a book deal done with a publisher.

Your cost for an agent varies, but is around 10-15% of the fee you would get from the publisher.

Additionally, publishers are looking for 2 things:

a) Fresh, relevant content that has a purpose.

b) Marketing platform that you can deliver sales from.

If you don't have a clear strategy and ability to market and sell your books, you are unlikely to get a book deal. Set up your blog and become a content provider now. Don't wait for your book to be finished.

2. Self-Publishing. Many new authors start with this route because of the massive road blocks to landing a publishing deal. The same marketing and exposure plan needs to be put in place. You can list your book online, Amazon and hook up with other joint venture partners including corporations, non-profits and non-chain book stores. Your book won't grace the shelves of Barnes and Noble, but you can still be a best seller if you strategically attack the market.

Creating your specific brand and getting the attention you desire requires more time than money. The more you write, post, comment and spread your CONTENT (not marketing) the better you will be received.

Doug Crowe

www.3hrauthor.com