Mobilize Your Network When Launching a Book: Clarify the Ask
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Here are the steps we recommend to authors for harnessing the power of their network with targeted strategies and a well-structured timeline. Starting at least six months before your publication date will give you the time needed to create and execute an impactful plan.
Step 1: Build Your Master List
Think of everyone in your network: clients, colleagues, peers, panelists, board members, collaborators, authors you’ve supported, and others who are connected to your work. Don’t forget contacts like college friends, industry experts, and leaders featured in your book.
In addition to your existing network, create a reach list—a group of influential individuals you don’t know personally but who have strong visibility in your field. These could include thought leaders, top industry voices, academics, or media personalities who align with your book’s themes. Be bold! Aim high and think about the people whose endorsement or connection could make a significant impact. Reaching out to them might just open doors you didn’t expect.
Organize this list into a detailed spreadsheet. Suggested columns to begin include:
- Name
- Organization
- Contact Information
- The ASK: Potential Ways They Can Help
- Personal Notes (e.g., books they have written, professional affiliations, mutual connections, audience and size, etc.)
- Next Steps (details of outreach, dates, commitments, etc.)
This master list will become the foundation of your outreach strategy and as you progress, it will help keep track of communication, opportunities, and your action items.
Step 2: Define “The Ask”
What do you want your network to do? Tailor your asks to each person’s strengths and communication channels. Here are common ways your network can support your book launch:
- Write a Blurb While there is some controversy over the value of blurbs or endorsements, they have the power to enhance your book’s credibility, whether they come from prominent figures or professionals with impressive titles. Feature blurbs on your Amazon page (turn into Amazon A+ content), website, and in media outreach.
Pro Tip: Many people need help crafting blurbs. Provide them with suggested wording to refine.
- Feature You on Their Podcast Ask contacts with podcasts to host you as a guest. If you have your own podcast, propose a swap if it aligns. When asking, share suggested talking points ideal for their listeners.
Pro Tip: Even if recorded months in advance, ask to schedule the podcast episode to air during your book’s launch week.
- Include You in Their Newsletter Ask to be featured in their newsletters (personal, Substack, or LinkedIn). Offer a Q&A or byline article to share your insights and news of your new book.
Pro Tip: Offer a pre-order bonus (they per-order your book in exchange for a “bonus.”). This may be exclusive content/access to you.
- Promote You on Their Social Media Platform Identify the platforms your contacts use most—LinkedIn, Instagram, Bluesky, TikTok, X, Facebook, etc.—and ask them to post about your book. It could be a book recommendation, a brief book description, a book cover and link to purchase, other images or a longer post about you and your book. Again, offer to create original content.
Pro Tip: Send them a review copy and suggest they post a photo of them holding your book; this is an easy post for them and boosts visibility and credibility for your book.
- Facilitate Bulk Purchases If your contact is part of an organization, suggest a bulk book purchase for their team or event. “Asking” for a bulk book purchase is a common strategy, especially when combined with offering a lunch and learn or fireside chat to their audiences.
Pro Tip: Work with your publisher to ensure these sales count toward Bookscan numbers. Companies like Porchlight or Givington’s facilitate this process.
- Provide Speaking Opportunities Offer a tailored presentation that aligns with your book’s themes and is customized to meet the specific needs of the audience for contacts involved in organizing events or conferences. Many authors waive speaking fees in exchange for the organization buying books in bulk for attendees.
Pro Tip: Pre-order bulk book strategy: if the event is after the publication date, ask organizers to purchase books before your publication date to maximize sales impact.
Step 3: Plan Your Timing and Assets
Timing is everything. Outline when you’ll make each ask and when you’d ideally like the placement (e.g., social posts, podcast episodes, blurb) to land. Always offer an electronic or physical review copy of your book.
Pro Tip: Create a shared Google folder with pre-made assets to streamline collaboration:
- Social media templates with your book cover
- Author headshots
- Long and short author bios
- Book cover image
- Short about the book information, including publication date
- Retail links
Making it easy for others to share your book will increase the ease and likelihood of engagement.
Conclusion
Launching a book is a thrilling milestone, and effectively leveraging your network is an ideal strategy to help significantly amplify its success—especially if driving sales or pre-orders is a priority. Whether your goal is to achieve bestseller status or simply to connect your book with as many readers as possible, your network is an invaluable resource.
With the right strategies and a structured timeline, you can unlock the full potential of your network. Begin by building a comprehensive list of contacts, including those you know and influential figures you aim to reach. Define clear, tailored asks that align with each contact’s strengths, and equip them with the tools and assets needed to support your efforts seamlessly.
Remember, timing and preparation are key. Start at least six months before your publication date to craft and execute a plan that maximizes your book’s impact. With thoughtful outreach and strategic mobilization, you’ll not only enhance your book’s visibility but also foster meaningful connections that extend beyond launch day.
The power of your network awaits—embrace it boldly and watch your book take flight!
For more insights about book publicity and book marketing, visit Smith Publicity and subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on upcoming podcast episodes.