Launching a book as an indie author often feels like a make-or-break moment, but there are different approaches depending on your goals, bandwidth, and long-term strategy. Some writers follow an aggressive, high-frequency launch schedule, while others treat their book launches as supplementary to their overall income. The key is finding a method that aligns with your energy and business model.
Adjust Your Launch Expectations: Not every book launch has to be a major event. If your primary income comes from other sources (like conferences or other books), consider treating your launch as a “nice-to-have” instead of an all-out campaign. Sometimes, letting the books exist quietly can still provide steady, passive income without the stress.
Choose the Right Marketing Model: High-output authors often use the “algorithm bump” strategy—constantly launching to stay in Amazon's favor. If you don’t want to be on the treadmill of endless launches, explore wide distribution strategies. Focus on building a backlist and strategically using promos for sustained sales over time.
Define Success for You: Every writer’s path is different. For some, success may mean hitting Amazon’s bestseller list; for others, it could be building a loyal fanbase. Reflect on what “winning” means to you and focus your energy on that goal. Whether it’s maximizing passive income or scaling up to bigger projects, clarity will guide your efforts.
Leverage Your Strengths: Think about your personal strengths. Are you a “desert” writer who can churn out books quickly, or are you more of a networker who thrives on partnerships? Aligning your launch and marketing plans with your natural inclinations can help avoid burnout and increase your enjoyment of the process.
Diversify Your Offerings: Beyond books, consider expanding into different formats like comics, podcasts, or foreign translations. Offering different types of content can reach new audiences and breathe life into older works, especially if you have strong brand identity and reader loyalty.
Final Thoughts:
Launching books successfully isn’t about following a single path—it’s about finding what works for you and your goals. Whether you’re aiming to hit bestseller lists or just maintaining a steady flow of passive income, aligning your launch strategy with your energy and strengths is key.
Episode 24 - Finding the Right Fit for Your Goals