In the midst of a rainy week, the sun broke through just long enough for the 2nd Annual Book Fest at Blend Coffee Bar. There were around 25 authors selling a books in a wide range of genres. If you were there, thanks for coming out to support local authors!
If you’ve never been to a book festival or other event where authors are selling their books, I have a bit of unsolicited advice. (Or is it tacitly solicited? Since you are here, reading my blog?)
Here it is: Don’t be afraid to talk to authors.
You Don’t Have to Buy a Book
While authors love to sell their books, we know that not every chat will lead to sale. Sometimes it’s just nice to talk a bit, especially if it’s been a quiet event. It may also help draw other other shoppers over to the table if they see a friendly interaction happening.
If you aren’t planning to buy anything, be prepared to step aside if a potential customer approaches the table. You don’t have to leave, but make room and let the conversation shift back to the author’s books (if you’re chatting about something else).
I avoid a hard sell and try to let shoppers’ interest lead the conversation. Some authors might be more persistent, but you don’t have to stay through an over-zealous pitch. Be polite but honest. It’s okay to interrupt to say that you appreciate their time but their books aren’t to your taste. Honestly, that interruption might sting for a second, but it’s much better than hearing that after going on and on without realizing the lack of interest.
Consider Gift Shopping
Reading is subjective. While you may know your tastes, do you know anyone else who might like a book that isn’t your style? Books make great gifts, especially when it’s a signed book from a local author.
I often sell books as birthday gifts or mother’s day gifts, and I’m happy to write a special message to the recipient.
An Easy Out
If you’re still unsure about talking to authors, I can suggest an easy out: take a business card or scan a QR code. It’s okay to say thanks for the chat and that you’ll look at the books online later. It might be true. It might be a white lie. I’m fine either way. Maybe you will look later. Maybe you’ll think to pass my info on to a friend or family member. If not, it gave you a graceful exit and I’m all for that!
I don’t want anyone to feel pressured into buying or reading my books. I’d rather they be read by people who are genuinely interested (and more likely to write a good review!). Generally, I appreciate when people shop at a local book fest whether they buy my books or support another author.
If you do read books by indie authors (self-published or small press), do consider writing positive reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, and other book sites. It’s really hard for indie authors to be found without the marketing power of a large publisher. Every good review is like gold! Don’t worry about writing a perfect review, just write a few sentences about why you liked the book and give it that lovely 4- or 5-star rating.
Again, thanks if you stopped by Blend’s Book Fest. If you missed me there, I will be at Loudoun County Library’s Eat Local Read Local event on October 19th. Come say hi!