Setting Up Signings

When setting up signings with book stores there are a few things to remember. First, you want to connect with the right store representative. Ask for the community relations representative or the person responsible for scheduling signings. Also remember to:

Be Polite. Use your manners. If it’s morning, say, “Good Morning.” Always introduce yourself, get the name of the contact person, and when the call comes to an end don’t forget your thank you.

Be Enthusiastic. If you sound dull and uninterested, the person on the other end will perceive you as someone who will have a similar attitude when selling books. If you’re suffering from a migraine you might want to wait and call on a different day. Simply put, put your best voice forward! Don’t over sell, but remember you are your book’s cheering section.

Be Information-Ready. Have the information about your book in front of you. Of course you know the title, but if asked, can you briefly describe what your book is about? You also need to give your book’s ISBN. ISBN stands for International Standard Book Number. It’s like a social security number for your book. These numbers are located on the back cover and uniquely identify your book. A paperback edition and hardback edition of the same book will have different ISBNs.

Be Flexible. You may not get the date or time you want. So be open to the date or time the store has available. If you have another signing booked for that day or time, or truly can’t make that date, calmly explain this to the contact person, and go on to negotiate another day and time that works for you.

That’s it for now.

Happy Signing,

Mata Elliott