Even An Introvert Can ❤️ an In-Person Event
Since publishing my first book in 2021, I have done four in-person events, and they’ve all been worthwhile. More than worthwhile, they’ve been fun and memorable. As a self-published author, I don’t have to do any events—or anything, for that matter. I could just upload my e-books on Amazon and call it a day, but that’s not the kind of author I want to be.
I enjoy getting out there and talking to people, showing them what I’ve written and how I’ve packaged my books. I like to see what they have to say about what they like as readers and whether my premise, or back cover, intrigues them.
I also want to sell paperbacks (as opposed to just e-books), and every time I participate in an in-person event, I realize that it’s possible to do so. Many people will pay more than e-book prices for the luxury of holding an actual book in their hands.
Some authors I know are leery of showing up in person. They’re introverts, as most of us writers are, so they’re afraid they won’t have anything to say when festival goers stop by their table. I get that. I have the same fears, but the thing is, when I enter a room filled with people connected by writing, editing, or reading books, the introvert in me pretty much disappears. Mostly because there’s so much to say.
Here are the reasons you should sign up for the next book festival, fair, or book signing that comes your way. (For what to bring to the event, see the sidebar box that follows):
You’ve spent many, many hours by yourself writing the book. It’s time to get out of the house and talk to some people!
It feels great to hear readers say, “I really like your covers.”
When you chat up the readers, you can ask them what they like best about their favorite books or genre, whether it’s tropes or a particular type of character, setting, or type of adventure.
Sales! When was the last time you sold ten or more paperbacks in one day?
You get to feel a little bit like a star when someone buys your book and asks you to sign it.
Meeting and mingling with the participating authors. How fun is it to talk shop and share marketing and social media tips with others? Also, book swaps can be awesome when they’re in your genre, and future collaborations are a possibility.
You never know who you’re going to meet. Film makers. Agents. Editors. Anything is possible when you step out your front door (echoing J.R.R. Tolkien here)—and your comfort zone.
Best of all, these events are a refreshing way to remind yourself that you’re an author. You’ve done the work, brought the book into the world, marketed as best you can, and now you’re being recognized for it in the flesh. People want to read your book! It’s inspiring.
