Book Launch Tasks

Remember that there are several important tasks to have underway well before you launch (start now). Then, starting 6 to 8 months pre-launch, you’ll need to plan your strategy, create some materials, and start promoting.

Be aware that no one does all these things for their launch. Think of these this tasks as a menu of possibilities rather than a to-do list.

Plan:

  1. Know yourself, and decide on your launch goals
  2. Develop a marketing plan
  3. Consider a promotional partner
  4. Plan your author events and book your venues
  5. Set up pre-launch communications
  6. Plan your big launch event; recruit a team to help
  7. Be sure you will have enough copies of your book on hand
  8. Schedule social media updates for launch week/day
  9. Prepare your presentation
  10. Make a list of things to bring to your launch party
  11. Recruit friends to help at the big event

Create:

  1. Media kit
  2. Video trailer
  3. Flyers, postcards, posters and swag
  4. Give-aways and special offers

Promote:

  1. Send out Advance Review Copies (ARCs)
  2. Implement your strategy for reviews and blurbs
  3. Initiate long-lead PR projects
  4. Get your audience engaged with your book
  5. Take advantage of short-lead press opportunities
  6. Ramp up social media presence
  7. Send media kits/review kits
  8. Set up your author accounts
  9. Consider a Goodreads giveaway
  10. Update your website
  11. Announce and invite (6 weeks out)
  12. Distribute flyers and postcards

What’s Next?