Remember when Black Friday was just one day? Now it feels like the marathon of sales starts in November and doesn’t stop until the end of the month—or longer! The good news is this extended “season of deals” is a golden opportunity for authors like us to make the most of a time when everyone’s looking for great finds. I write about it every year because, let’s face it, Black Friday has become a worldwide phenomenon that’s far bigger than just a day of deals.
Why should we as authors care? Because this moment is a prime opportunity to showcase our books, connect with readers who are eager to explore, and boost sales. With a little creativity, Black Friday can be your ticket to expanding your reach. So let’s dive in with some ideas for making Black Friday work for you this year! Here we go…
10 Black Friday Strategies for Authors
1. Discounted Books
Offering a special Black Friday discount on your books can be a big draw for readers in deal-hunting mode. Check out Amazon’s Black Friday sections, where your discounted title can shine among the hottest deals.
2. Bundle Deals: Series and Collaborations
Got a series? Bundle it into a box set for a tempting offer. Or team up with authors in your genre to create a unique bundle that appeals to readers of all your books, expanding your reach with minimal effort.
3. Time-Limited Offers
Everyone loves a deal that’s here today and gone tomorrow. Keep readers on their toes with exclusive offers for Black Friday, or extend the magic into Cyber Monday. Those time limits make people act fast when they want something!
4. Marketing and Promotion
- Email Campaigns: Announce your deals to your email list, giving them first dibs. Speak authentically—this is your chance to connect, not just sell.
- Social Media: Amplify the excitement on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Using hashtags like #BlackFriday and #BookDeals can help you reach new readers.
- Paid Advertising: Black Friday might be the perfect moment for a little extra push with ads on social media or Amazon. After all, everyone’s browsing!
5. Exclusive Content or Releases
Launching a new book? Why not tie it to Black Friday! Or make it extra special by offering exclusive content like bonus chapters or behind-the-scenes insights—something that adds value just for your Black Friday readers.
6. Signings and Virtual Events
Host or join a Black Friday book signing, or set up a virtual Q&A to create excitement around your promotion. It’s a great way to connect in real time with readers who are just waiting to discover your work.
7. Flash Sales
Stir up some excitement with short, dramatic price drops. Plan several flash sales throughout the Black Friday period to keep readers coming back to see what’s new.
8. Utilize Book Promotion Sites
Don’t forget about book promotion websites that highlight discounted titles. Listing your book on these sites during Black Friday can draw in avid readers who are eager for bargains.
9. Goodreads and Book Clubs
Give book clubs and Goodreads communities a reason to pick up your book by offering them a Black Friday discount. These readers are always on the lookout for their next great read!
10. Merchandising
Have some fun with branded merchandise tied to your series. Think T-shirts, bookmarks, or posters, all at Black Friday prices. It’s a fun way to add a little something extra for your fans! But you need to get going now!
Bottom Line
Black Friday is an author’s dream window to build visibility, connect with a wider audience, and make a lasting impact. The best part? These ideas work year-round, so you can keep them in your toolkit for next year’s big events too.
To your success,
Joanne
P.S. It has to be Steely Dan today.
#Blackfriday
#holidaydeals
#Bookmarketing
#Bookpublicity
If you’d like to receive juicy publicity secrets directly on a regular basis, join the Savvy Sunday Community at the bottom of this page.