Some of my readers are still dreaming of the day they market their first book, but all writers should develop a plan well in advance of that milestone. And for published authors, it never stops.
Writing Tip for Today: Although you can find scads of books, blogs and articles about marketing a book, for me it boils down to three simple concepts:

1. Start with Strength. Did you once work as a church secretary? Approach that denomination’s governing board and offer to speak for free. Same holds true for any hobbies, jobs or even the subject matter in a novel. Book gigs in areas where you know the field or better, where you know people.
2. Make Eye Contact. I’m going to spend more time and resources where I can “hand sell” or meet directly with a real person, as opposed to sending out umpteen press releases that will likely end up in the trash. This includes snagging book events, TV and radio gigs and speaking engagements. The personal touch is always better.
3. How Far? With my current financial situation (trust me, it’s pathetic) I can still plan to do signings and book events (speaking or other functions) within a radius of 100 miles from where I live. Start with a much closer distance of say 10-20 miles and work out in concentric rings.

No matter how little your budget for promoting your work, you can take advantage of these three things. And for those waiting to hold that first pubbed book, NOW is a great time to begin making those connections or refreshing old ones.