If you’re an author looking to market your books effectively, your most potent weapon is a deep understanding of your reader’s psyche. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of reader behavior and explore the invisible threads that pull a reader towards their next favorite read.
Imagine being able to predict what triggers a reader to pick up a book. What if you could decode the elements that entice readers, making your book irresistible to them? A recent survey by Written Word Media of avid readers offers some invaluable insights.
The three musketeers of the book selection process are the book description, the author, and the book cover. When a potential reader scans a bookshelf or an online store, these are the factors that attract their attention. A captivating book cover could be your first ambassador, luring readers in. Once hooked, they inspect the description and the author’s reputation before making the purchase. An investment of time and creativity into crafting these elements can provide significant returns.
The journey, however, doesn’t end there. Once the book is opened, it’s the strength of your narrative that keeps them turning pages. An imaginative and unique plot ensures readers are thoroughly entertained and fully immersed in the world you’ve created.
Interestingly, the survey also highlighted the importance of reviews in the decision-making process. Readers heavily rely on the wisdom of the crowd, with the average review score playing a significant role. While a sprinkling of low ratings may seem discouraging, authors should not lose heart. At least not when a book is initially released. It will be important to grow that number over time. What matters most is the average score, and one or two low ratings are unlikely to deter avid readers.
Notably, nearly a quarter of all readers regularly review books. Authors can seize this opportunity by inviting readers to leave a review at the end of their books. This seemingly simple act can significantly increase the number of reviews you receive, enhancing your book’s overall score.
The survey further revealed that readers crave an intimate connection with authors. They are eager to get the inside scoop on characters and storylines straight from the horse’s mouth. Consider sharing these tidbits on your social media platforms or through newsletters. These fascinating insights could also be offered as bonuses to readers who share your book, potentially widening your reader base.
This is not so easily facilitated when an author simply clicks on a promoted book in a newsletter as more often than not, the reader is only taken to the book page on an online store with little opportunity to engage with the author. It may not be apparent to readers, but when they buy a book in this fashion, the author has no idea who they are, what they like or how to engage with them.
Over 75% of readers in the survey discover their next read through email newsletters, while over 35% of them are Kindle Unlimited subscribers. Running a promotion through these channels can help authors to tap into a ready audience, eager for their next read.
Another exciting revelation from the survey is the reading habits of the participants. Over a quarter of readers devour 6-10 books each month and are willing to spend up to fifteen dollars. As an author, having multiple titles to your name, particularly within a series, can lead to a consistent revenue stream.
We also took a closer look at reader motivations across different promotional sites. The first audience, for example, primarily uses a Kindle or Kindle app and doesn’t shy away from spending on books. Other readers are often on the hunt for economically priced books and are subscribed to Kindle Unlimited.
In conclusion, understanding these behaviours and adapting your strategies accordingly can take your authorship journey from ordinary to extraordinary. By effectively engaging your readers and catering to their preferences, you’ll not only sell more books but also forge a deeper connection with your audience.
Damian Vargas's author blog 
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