It makes sense that every author treat their online “home” as an online “shop” as well.
There’s no denying that the Internet provides plentiful free marketing opportunities for authors. More and more readers are using the web to discover new books. So, it makes sense that every author treat their online “home” as an online “shop” as well.
We’re not suggesting you turn your personable website into the equivalent of a big box store. Instead, consider the local shopkeeper who lives above their shop. Or the professional who runs a small office in her home. There are plenty of ways to welcome the casual visitor to your site but also help the reader who wants to buy your next book.
1. Make sure the navigation of your site is clearly marked. Help provide easy to find links to your bio, your book list and your newest release.
2. Use descriptions to introduce readers to your books, but also follow through by giving the price, ISBN and suggestions of where to purchase.
3. Wherever you show book covers, be sure to include links to the various retailers that sell your book.
4. Beware of showing a preference for one retailer over another. Even if you sell more books on Amazon, not every reader owns a Kindle.
5. If you choose to sell books directly from your website, be sure to check with an accountant about the necessity to collect and pay sales tax.
Your website is your personal opportunity to hand-sell books to readers. Are you making the most of it?