INSTAGRAM SUCCESS FOR FREE
Believe it or not, Instagram is a great way to sell your books! As an author, you can use Instagram without spending a penny.
That’s right—no money at all.
However, there are things you must do, and it takes a little time but not a lot of time.
Whenever you are building a following on Instagram, it can take some time, but understanding the algorithms of any social media platform can help lessen the time and keep you high on the daily algorithms.
If the truth be told, though, you don’t really need to analyze the algorithms. Even with the constantly changing rules of social media platforms, including Instagram, the following steps will help you consistently hit the algorithms to get you in front of new people who would be interested in your books.
First, ensure the content of your posts is about your topics on which you write. If you are trying to promote a book, then everything you post should revolve around your book or at least your book’s topic. What should be in the content? Here are three ideas:
Post a provocative quote from your book, then add "Want more?! Visit [insert URL where your book is sold] to purchase your copy of [insert your book's title] TODAY!"
"Have you been wondering how to [insert a big question your book answers/a big problem your book solves/a big pain point your book addresses]? Visit [insert URL where your book is sold] to get the answer when you purchase your copy of [insert your book's title] TODAY!"
Make a statement that is counter to popular belief but that supports what your book espouses, then add "Learn more in [insert title of your book]! Purchase your copy at [insert URL where your book is sold] TODAY!
Second, post regularly. This doesn’t mean you have to post daily, but you have to be consistent and regular. For example, always post on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Use different times of the day on each day to reach the most people.
Third, use high-resolution images of your book’s cover or to boost your topic. If it is blurry, off-center, irrelevant, or otherwise off-topic, you will not build your following and may be seen as less credible. So always post only the best of the best in terms of pictures and photos and make sure they apply to the topic. Don’t forget your graphics in the BMcTALKS Press Author Portal.
Next, check your posts at least once a day and respond to any comments. Engaging is a great way to build your Instagram platform.
Also, if you are comfortable with it and it is relevant, then share a little of your personal life. You don’t have to do this often, but it makes you appear more like your reader and will help you build your platform and following faster.
Finally, to ask co-workers, colleagues, and others in your network to like your Instagram page. The more people you have following you, the better you’ll hit the algorithms as well.
Not a fan of Instagram? The same strategy works on LinkedIn and Facebook. Post about your book, post regularly, and use high-res images.
It’s ideal to start all of this before your book is released, but you don’t have to. You can start anytime. Consistency, engagement, and professionalism are key to quickly building an Instagram platform and selling your books on Instagram without spending a penny.
You've got this!