Let Us Talk About Amazon Giveaways for Authors
By Barbara Ann Cerda | Contributing Writer
Although bookmakers and their publishers contribute a relatively small portion of Amazon’s almost $75 billion estimated revenue for 2014, the global giant recognizes the importance of its indie bookmaking users.
Portions of Amazon’s marketing research dollars have created a nascent promotional gimmick that offers revenue for its burgeoning online bookshelves. With global competitors gaining ground into untapped world markets eager to consume American authors. It is clear that creative content has become a global wealth engine. Therefore, Amazon’s newest marketing incentive for authors is far more important than readily apparent.
The new Amazon giveaway tool is free to use but authors must purchase the giveaway copies at full Amazon pricing including shipping. At this writing, only trade copy is eligible to qualify. For that reason, it is important to be mindful of the ROI or return on investment. Giving away a book does not guarantee increased sales, lower ranking numbers or a favorable review.
Personalize the details of your giveaway when setting up content. The provided link points the winner to your book gift and then becomes useful tool for promotion on various social media sites…Pinterest, Twitter or Facebook.
Regularly scheduled content postings on Twitter are important. The return on investment becomes a return on interest – in your work. Performing good diligence is required in tweeting out announcements and utilization of marketing funnels of your giveaway, and then there are reader follow-ups.
Amazon’s Giveaway is news. Long before now, other book marketing sites like Goodreads and Freado have offered similar giveaway-marketing promos. They lack Amazon’s visibility in the market place and its obvious shipping logistic benefits. While gaining readership on Amazon’s platform is vital to publications, the rules of engagement when giving away your work for promotions are the same.
Amazon’s giveaway is new and untested. Early participants will be the proof of the pudding.