You’ve written the book. You’ve pressed publish. Now you’re ready to share your story with the world. Cue the eBook promotion!

At Written Word Media, we’ve seen thousands of authors run successful promotions across Freebooksy, Bargain Booksy, Reader Reach Ads, and more. And we’ve also seen a few common missteps that can limit your promo’s potential.

But don’t worry—these aren’t dealbreakers. In fact, consider this blog post your backstage pass to a better book launch. Let’s walk through five common promo pitfalls—and how you can turn each one into a powerful marketing win.

1. Sending Readers to a Page That Doesn’t Convert

Why It Happens:

You’ve invested in a promo and driven readers to your Amazon page—yay! But if that page isn’t ready to impress, you may not get the downloads or sales you hoped for. This isn’t about perfection; it’s about making the most of your promo dollars by ensuring your book page is working with you, not against you.

How to Fix It: 

Start by making sure your cover and blurb are doing the heavy lifting:

• Does your cover match your genre?
  A thriller should look like a thriller. A cozy mystery should feel like a warm cup of tea. Browse top books in your category—does yours look like it belongs on the same shelf? Genre resonance helps readers quickly recognize that your book is exactly what they’re looking for.
• Does your description hook the reader right away?
  Think of your book blurb as the handshake before a first date. It should intrigue, excite, and give a clear sense of tone and stakes—all in just a few lines.

A quick polish on your book page can make a huge difference when new readers are deciding whether to click that “Buy” or “Download” button.

2. Picking the Wrong Price (or Not Updating It in Time)

Why It Happens:

Life is busy. And between pricing updates and promo scheduling, it’s easy to forget to double-check that your book is free for a Freebooksy promo or $5 or under for Bargain Booksy.

Why It Matters: 

We aim to make a high-intent match between readers and books. When a reader clicks on a promo, they expect the price they were promised. If it’s not right, the experience can be frustrating, and that can lead to fewer downloads or sales.

How to Fix It:

• Make sure your price is correctly set the day before your promo starts (we recommend adjusting the price in your dashboard at least 24 hours early to account for time zones and retailer lag).
  
• Choose the right pricing strategy for your goals:
  Want to boost rankings and widen your audience? Go with a free promo and aim for big download volume.
  Looking to make some revenue and recoup ad spend? Choose a bargain promo and target the sweet spot for impulse buys.

And don’t worry—our team checks every single promo before it runs. If something’s off, we’ll reach out. But things go smoother (and more stress-free) when you’ve got the pricing aligned in advance.

3. Losing Momentum Between Promos

Why It Happens:

You pour energy into setting up a Promo Stack—maybe even run a few ads—and then… pause. Totally understandable! Life happens. But momentum matters.

Why It Matters:

Consistency creates discoverability. You’re building reader recognition and feeding the Amazon algorithm every time you promote your book. It’s a lot easier to climb the mountain when you’re already halfway up, rather than starting fresh every time.

How to Fix It: 

Think in terms of cadence and rhythm. Find a promotional schedule that works for you—maybe it’s every 30 days, maybe every quarter. Just keep in mind: we require at least 30 days between promos on the same site, so planning ahead will help you keep the flywheel turning. When you find a groove that works, stick with it. Your backlist (and your sales chart) will thank you.

Even repeating the same promotion can be incredibly effective. Readers come and go, timing changes, and promotions often perform better over time as your book’s visibility grows. Visibility is a long game. It’s easier to build on momentum than to start from scratch every time.

4. Avoiding Ads Because They Feel Overwhelming

Why It Happens: 

Facebook Ads? Amazon Ads? Targeting, creative, copywriting… It’s a lot. And if you’re already juggling writing, editing, and marketing, learning an ad platform from scratch might not feel doable.

Why It Matters: 

Ads are an incredible complement to email promotions. They keep your book in front of readers beyond the inbox and help you sustain visibility, especially during and after a promo week.

How to Fix It: 

You don’t have to go it alone. With Reader Reach Ads, we manage everything for you:

• Professionally designed images
• Compelling ad copy
• Data-driven targeting
• Ongoing optimization

It’s full-service ad management—without the agency price tag. Let us handle the ads so you can focus on your next chapter (literally).

5. Not Promoting Your Promo (Before, During, or After)

Why It Happens: 

You’ve booked a promo, so you might think your job is done. But here’s the truth: your readers want to hear from you, too. Not only that, but you’ve already shelled out the money for an email promo. It’s well worth the time and effort to amplify the promotion to your existing audience. 

Why It Matters: 

Your existing audience is already primed to support you—they just need to know something’s happening! And who doesn’t love a sale?! A little extra visibility from your end can give your promo a nice boost.

How to Fix It: 

Marketing isn’t just about the promo day—it’s about what you do before and after. Don’t be shy—shout it from the rooftops (or at least your newsletter and socials):

Before and During Your Promo:

• Announce the deal in your newsletter (e.g., “My book is $0.99 this week on Bargain Booksy—get it before it’s gone!”)
• Ask readers to spread the word (they love to help)

After Your Promo:

• Follow up with a thank-you post or email
• Tease what’s coming next: another promo, a new release, a sequel?

A little planning and engagement can go a long way. Treat your promo like a celebration and your readers will show up to the party! 

The Final Word: Your Promo Is Part of a Bigger Story

You’re not just running a promotion. You’re building a career. A readership. A legacy.

These “mistakes” aren’t really mistakes—they’re learning opportunities. And every promo you run is a chance to get sharper, smarter, and more strategic.

At Written Word Media, we’re here to help you turn every Promo into progress. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, we’re in your corner, cheering you on and making sure your story gets the spotlight it deserves.

The post 5 Mistakes Authors Make When Running eBook Promotions (and How to Fix Them) appeared first on Written Word Media.

In our latest Speaker Series, I had the pleasure of stepping into the spotlight to share what I’ve learned over the past decade about helping authors connect with readers, specifically through the power of email.

During the session, I walked through how to build and grow an email list, covering everything from the very first subscriber to more advanced list-building strategies. In this post, I’m focusing on the fundamentals. I’ll explain why your email list is one of your most valuable assets, how to build momentum without feeling overwhelmed, and how to make list nurturing a natural part of your author routine.

Why Email Marketing?

Email marketing may sound like a buzzword, but it is one of the most effective ways for authors to communicate with readers. Unlike social media, where algorithms determine what your audience sees, email marketing provides a direct line to your readers’ inboxes.

But it’s more than just sending messages—it’s about creating intentional, purposeful communication that drives action.

Here are some key reasons why email marketing remains a cornerstone for authors:

• Daily Habit: Email is one of the most consistent ways to reach readers. Most people check their email multiple times a day.
• Opt-In Marketing: Readers have actively chosen to hear from you, which makes them more likely to engage with your content.
• Direct Access: You control the messaging, the timing, and the content – no algorithm interference.
• Cost-Effective: Email marketing offers one of the highest ROIs of any marketing channel. According to industry data, email marketing can generate a return of $36 for every $1 spent.
• Consistent Communication: A regular cadence of emails helps to build trust, foster connection, and maintain reader interest over time.

Getting Started with Email Marketing: The Basics

Before you dive into email marketing, you need two essential components:

1. Your Email List

Your email list is more than a collection of addresses – it’s a curated group of readers who have given you permission to communicate with them directly. Building this list is the first step, and it requires a clear strategy.

• Who’s on your list? Fans, friends, family, beta readers, and potential readers.
• What do you need to collect? At a minimum, the subscriber’s email address. You can also ask for a first name to make your emails more personal.
• How do you collect emails? Through sign-up forms, lead magnets on your author website, and back matter calls to action.

2. Your ESP (Email Service Provider)

An ESP is the software that allows you to manage your list, send emails, and track performance. Here’s a list of popular ESPs that are well-suited for authors:

• MailerLite
• MailChimp
• ConvertKit
• Substack
• SendFox

Each of these platforms offers free plans that can help authors get started without a major financial commitment.

Step 1: Pick an ESP

So, how do you decide which ESP is right for you? Most of these platforms offer a free plan, so you can test the waters without dipping into your promo budget, but as you get more sophisticated with your email marketing, you’ll likely want to leverage some more premium features. As you can see, most authors that we polled used MailerLite, but every author is different, and you’ll want to see which platform works best for you.

Step 2: Build Your Email List – The Foundation

Before spending a single dollar on advertising, start with a seed list of 20-25 contacts. This initial group will help you get comfortable with sending emails and refining your messaging. Here’s how to get started:

Start Small: The Seed List

• Friends, Family, and Coworkers: Ask close contacts to sign up.
• Beta Readers and Early Fans: These are people who already know and love your work.
• Social Media Followers: Post a sign-up link and encourage your followers to join your list.

Once you’ve established a basic list, commit to sending a regular email at least once a month. Consistency is key in maintaining reader engagement.

Step 3: Create Your Welcome Email – The First Impression

The welcome email is a crucial part of email marketing. It’s your digital handshake – an opportunity to set the tone, introduce yourself, and establish expectations.

What to Include in Your Welcome Email:

• A Warm Greeting: Address the reader by name if possible.
• Introduction: Share a brief story about yourself, your work, and why you write.
• What to Expect: Clearly outline what readers will receive and how often they will hear from you.
• Deliver the Goods: If you promised a lead magnet (free book, chapter, etc.), provide the link.
• Engaging Call to Action: Ask a simple question to prompt a response. This helps to build a connection and maintain deliverability.

Here are some examples of effective welcome emails that check all of the above boxes (in very different ways):

Step 4: Decide When You Will Send

One of the most common email marketing roadblocks for authors? Not knowing when to hit send. To break it down simply, pick a day, any day – just make it consistent.

You don’t have to send an email weekly if that feels overwhelming. Start with a monthly email on the first of every month. Or maybe every other Wednesday. The key is to set a schedule and stick to it. Over time, your readers will come to expect your emails – and you’ll get into the habit of sending.

Not sure what to say every month? Keep it simple. Share what you’re working on, what you’re reading, and any updates about your books. Keep it personal, keep it relevant, and keep showing up.

Step 5: Start Sending On A Schedule

You’ve chosen your sending schedule – now it’s time to actually do it. Start sending – even if your list is tiny. The only way to get comfortable with email marketing is to do it consistently.

Even if you’ve only got five people on your list, you’re not just emailing, you’re training your marketing muscles.

Every message is a chance to connect, refine your voice, and build a habit that’ll pay off when your audience grows. Because it will. And when it does? You’ll be ready.

Step 6: Build Your Email List Further

Once you’ve sent 2-3 emails on a regular schedule, you’re ready to start growing your list. Building your list further is a post in itself, so we’re not diving into all the strategies here today – but trust me, there are plenty.

Want to go deeper? Gold and Platinum Members can access the full recording of the April Speaker Series session. You’ll learn:

• Advanced list-building techniques, including reader magnets and subscriber giveaways.
• How to leverage your book’s back matter to drive sign-ups.
• Best practices for running targeted Facebook Ads to attract new subscribers.

Ready to level up? Upgrade to Premium here.

How Written Word Media Can Help

Ready to take your email marketing to the next level? Written Word Media offers several tailored services to help authors grow and engage their email lists, including:

• Subscriber Surge Giveaways: Attract targeted readers through genre-specific giveaways.
• Reader Reach Facebook Ads: Drive sign-ups through professionally managed ad campaigns.
• Promo Stacks: Include email sign-up CTAs in your eBooks when running Freebooksy, Bargain Booksy, or Red Feather Romance promos.

Final Takeaways

Before pouring money into growing your list, focus on building the habit of consistent communication. Once you’ve developed a rhythm and are comfortable with your email content, then consider exploring more advanced strategies like reader magnets or paid advertising.

• Start Small: A seed list of 20-25 subscribers is plenty for getting started.
• Be Consistent: Establish a regular sending schedule, even if it’s just once a month.
• Nail the Welcome Email: Set the tone, deliver on any promised freebies, and invite interaction.
• Keep It Simple: Don’t overcomplicate your emails. Share what you’re working on, what you’re reading, or what’s coming up next.
• Track Your Progress: Pay attention to open rates, click-through rates, and unsubscribes. You don’t need to obsess over every number, but keeping an eye on trends will help you refine your strategy.

Want More Content Like This?

Register for our next Speaker Series! Each month, we host live Speaker Series sessions with book marketing and self-publishing experts. Anyone can join the live sessions, and Gold & Platinum Members can watch the recordings (including the unabridged version of this invaluable session on email) anytime!

The post Why Every Author Needs an Email List (and How to Build Yours with Confidence) appeared first on Written Word Media.

Writing might be a solitary act, but a great conference can turn your solo mission into a community-powered rocket boost. Whether you’re looking to pitch to agents, soak up craft wisdom, or just hang with your fellow word nerds (our people!), here’s a hand-picked list of upcoming writing conferences for the rest of 2025.

Quick note: This isn’t an exhaustive list (the literary world is wonderfully vast!), so if there’s a conference you love that’s not listed here, we’d love to hear about it. Send us a note at info@writtenwordmedia.com, and we’ll happily consider adding it.

Let’s map out your next literary adventure:

IBPA Publishing University

May 15–17 | Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota
Run by the Independent Book Publishers Association, this event is gold for indie authors and small presses. Expect actionable insights on book marketing, distribution, and the ever-changing publishing landscape.

NonfictioNOW

June 11–13 | Notre Dame, Indiana
Calling all nonfiction writers! This global conference focuses on essays, memoir, journalism, and literary nonfiction. It’s an intellectually rich space where fact meets finesse—and deep conversations happen.

SPS Live London

June 25–26 | South Bank, London
Self-Publishing School’s London conference is all about launching, scaling, and thriving as an indie author. Think practical tools, marketing know-how, and inspiration galore—with a side of tea and Thames views.

HNSNA Conference 2025

June 26–28 | Las Vegas, Nevada
Historical fiction fans, this is your jam. The Historical Novel Society North America’s event features panels, workshops, and bookish camaraderie—all wrapped in a bit of Vegas flair.

Midwest Writers Workshop (MMW25)

July 10–12 | Muncie, Indiana
A staple in the Midwest, this workshop blends top-tier instruction with friendly community vibes. Whether you’re starting your first novel or polishing your tenth, there’s something here for you.

RWA 2025 Annual Conference

July 16–19 | Niagara Falls, Ontario
Romance is in the air—and the water! The Romance Writers of America gather for panels, pitch sessions, and craft talks, all in a breathtaking location that could inspire your next love story.

Writer’s Digest Annual Conference

July 24–27 | Baltimore, Maryland
A flagship event for writers of all stripes. From keynotes to deep-dive workshops and pitch slams, this is where career-minded authors come to level up—and maybe snag that dream agent.

Killer Nashville International Writers’ Conference

August 21–24 | Nashville, Tennessee
For crime, thriller, and mystery writers, Killer Nashville is a must. It’s equal parts networking, craft, and chills—plus, you’ll be in the company of authors who know how to plot a twist.

Craft & Publishing Voyage

August 27–September 3 | London to New York
Set sail with fellow writers on this literary cruise. With a unique mix of craft instruction, publishing advice, and onboard networking, it’s part retreat, part masterclass—at sea!

WriterCon Conference

August 29–September 1 | Oklahoma City, OK
A broad-ranging conference that covers fiction, nonfiction, screenwriting, and everything in between. Expect actionable sessions, publishing tips, and a supportive author community.

NINC (Novelists, Inc.)

September 17–22 | St. Pete Beach, Florida
This conference is for established, career-focused fiction writers. Think next-level marketing strategies, industry insider panels, and tropical beachside networking. (Bring your sunglasses and your elevator pitch!)

Moonlight & Magnolias 2025 Writers Conference

September 25–27 | Norcross, Georgia
Hosted by Georgia Romance Writers, this beloved event blends Southern charm with a sharp focus on publishing and craft. It’s intimate, fun, and full of helpful sessions for all levels.

2025 Colorado Gold Writers Conference

September 26–28 | Aurora, Colorado
Run by Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers, this long-running conference supports fiction writers with pitch appointments, hands-on workshops, and community spirit set against stunning mountain backdrops.

New Frontiers in Writing

September 27–28 | Amarillo, Texas
A newer entry on the scene, this conference is geared toward pushing boundaries—whether it’s through genre, form, or storytelling approach. Ideal for experimental or speculative fiction authors.

Fredericksburg Independent Book Festival

October 4 | Fredericksburg, Virginia
This one-day book fest is part community celebration, part networking event for authors. Set up a booth, meet readers face-to-face, and connect with fellow indies under Virginia’s autumn skies.

Gotham’s Fiction Writers Conference

October 4–5 | Location TBA
Brought to you by Gotham Writers Workshop, this two-day event includes pitch sessions, agent panels, and masterclasses. Perfect for serious fiction writers looking to break in—or break out.

Florida WritersCon 2025

October 17–19 | Orlando/Altamonte Springs, Florida
From beginner workshops to master-level intensives, this con has something for everyone. Expect industry guests, networking events, and plenty of writing-focused energy.

Author Nation

November 3–7 | Las Vegas, Nevada
Author Nation is a celebration of the independent author. You’ll find marketing sessions, tech demos, and loads of opportunities to connect with fellow pros. It’s like a Comic-Con for self-pub!

Pen-Worthy Plans Ahead

Conferences are a great way to fuel your author career, find your people, and get real about your writing goals. Whether you’re seeking craft growth, business savvy, or a new writing tribe, there’s a perfect event for you on this list.

And hey—don’t forget to stack your next promo before or after a conference appearance to keep that momentum going. ( You know who to call. Cough Written Word Media Cough).

Did we miss one? If your favorite conference isn’t listed here—drop us a line at info@writtenwordmedia.com. We’re always looking to support more events that help authors shine.

The post 2025 List of Author Conferences appeared first on Written Word Media.

Whether you’re a seasoned author or just getting your feet wet in the indie publishing world, understanding how zero-cost pricing taps into human psychology can transform your book marketing strategy.

Discover why giving your book away can be your smartest sales move—and how the psychology of ‘free’ can turn curious browsers into loyal readers.

Free in the Wild: You’ve Seen It Everywhere

Free is everywhere—and it works.

Think about the last time you got a free sample or signed up for a free trial. Big brands give things away to make money. Why? Because it works.

• Gillette gave away razors to sell blades—now they’re a household name.

• Costco sees sales increase up to 2,000% during sampling events.

• Dropbox grew its user base with a simple promise: free space for referrals.

• Amazon’s Kindle Unlimited feels “free” to readers, but authors get paid.

The takeaway? If the world’s most successful companies use free to fuel growth, indie authors can too.

Why Free Works: It’s All In Your Head

Turns out, we’re wired to respond to “free” — emotionally and powerfully. It’s not magic. It’s science. The word ‘free’ doesn’t just sound good—it lights up our brains. Here’s why readers respond so strongly to zero-cost pricing.

The Psychology of Free

Let’s break it down.

1. Loss Aversion

We humans really don’t like losing things—even on things that don’t cost us anything. In one study, people chose a free $10 gift card (a $10 profit) over a $20 card that cost $7 (a $13 dollar profit).

If someone was offered to pick between getting 13 dollars or getting 10 dollars, which would they pick? Obviously, everyone would rather have 13. But if you introduce FREE into the equation the brain goes nuts and everyone picks the free option.

Free books feel risk-free. There’s no cost, no commitment—just the possibility of discovering a new favorite author.

Readers are inundated with choices. Every book is a potential gem… or a dud. That uncertainty makes them hesitant to try unfamiliar names, especially if there’s a price attached. But take away the cost? Suddenly, the risk disappears.

Now the thought process shifts from “Is this worth my money?” to “I’m missing out if I don’t get this free book!”

And because free offers often don’t stick around, readers also feel an incredible urgency to grab it now—just in case they’re missing out on something great. That emotional cocktail of curiosity, value, and FOMO (fear of missing out) is all due to loss aversion, and it makes free books incredibly compelling.

2. Scarcity & Urgency

Scarcity and urgency play directly into our natural fear of missing out—aka FOMO. When something feels limited, we pay closer attention. When something feels urgent, we act faster.

Ever walked through Costco and been handed a free sample by a smiling rep next to a dwindling tray of snacks? That’s scarcity in action. The setup is temporary. The supply is small. And the message is clear: Get it while you can. The result? Shoppers don’t just try the product—they often buy it on the spot. In fact, Costco has seen sales increases of up to 2,000% during sampling events.

This same principle applies to free book promotions. When a deal is labeled “Free today only” or paired with a ticking countdown clock (like the one shown here from a Kindle promo), it signals to readers that they need to act now—or miss out entirely.

Why does this work so well? Because “later” rarely happens. We’re all busy. We’re overwhelmed with choices. Scarcity moves people out of thinking and into doing. Adding urgency creates a window where the decision becomes easy: grab the freebie before it disappears.

You can also stack the effect by adding social proof:
“Over 1,000 downloads already today!” or “Join 500+ readers who grabbed their copy!”

These tiny psychological nudges pack a powerful punch. They transform your book from one of many options into a limited-time opportunity—and that’s the kind of framing that gets clicks.

3. Reciprocity

Humans are wired to return favors—it’s social glue.

When you give readers something valuable for free—like a well-written, fully developed book—it sparks a subtle emotional response. “That was generous… maybe I’ll leave a review, or check out their next book.”

This is reciprocity in action. It’s not about guilt—it’s about goodwill. A free book starts a relationship.

And relationships lead to momentum:

• More reads
• More reviews
• More superfans who stick around for your next launch

In fact, 87% of consumers are more likely to support a brand that gives them something in return. In your case? That “gift” is your writing. And when done right, a free book becomes the start of something much bigger.

4. Endowment Effect

 People tend to value something more once they own it or feel possession of it.

Once someone owns something—even if they got it for free—they tend to value it more. That’s the endowment effect in action.

For authors, this means that the moment a reader downloads your free book, it’s no longer just a book—it’s their book. They start to form an emotional connection.

They’ve taken that first step into your story world, and if they connect with your characters, your voice, your worldbuilding—they won’t want to leave.

That emotional investment is what drives readers to buy the next book, leave a review, or recommend your series to others.

A free download isn’t the end of the journey—it’s the beginning of a relationship.

So, How Do I Sell Books with This?

Here’s the simple, strategic play for how to leverage this strategy to make money selling books:

• Make Book 1 free – This is especially effective for series. You hook them with book 1, they buy books 2 and 3 because they have to know what happens.

• Run a promotion (we can help with that) – These email promotions get your free book in front of thousands of the right readers. Run a Freebooksy, a Freebooksy Series Promo, or a Free Promo Stack that pairs Freebooksy with other platforms that promote free books.

• Tell your fans about it – Email your list, post on socials, shout it from the rooftops. The more people who know about your promo, the more it can snowball.

That’s it. Just a few clicks and your promo is live.

No complicated marketing strategy. No weeks spent building landing pages or fiddling with ad dashboards.

You don’t need to be a marketer—you just need to get your book in front of readers.

What You Really Get When You Give a Book Away

A free book isn’t just a freebie—it’s a reader magnet.

That means it’s designed to attract new readers into your orbit.

Think of it as a no-risk invitation: a sample of your storytelling that invites people to try before they buy. And if they like what they read? They’ll stick around.

Reader magnets work best when they’re tied to a series or offer a compelling taste of your style—because once a reader is drawn in, they’re far more likely to continue the journey with you.

When you give away a book, you gain:

• Visibility
• New readers discovering your series
• Read-through to later books
• More reviews
• Algorithmic lift from Amazon and other platforms
• Mailing list growth

One free book = long-term gain.

Math Time!

Let’s Crunch the Numbers

Let’s take a closer look at how free performs compared to a $0.99 promo. Spoiler: free wins—by a landslide.

We analyzed two campaigns with similar genre, author size, and placement. The only difference? One was priced at $0.99. The other was free.

Here’s what happens:

• • 233% more impressions = More people saw the free promo. That means greater reach, better exposure, and more chances for your book to get noticed.
  • 86.7% more reviews = Free books generated significantly more reviews.
  • More reviews = better social proof = more long-term sales.
  • 238.8% more earnings = Yep, you read that right. The free promo led to over 2X the earnings—thanks to read-through, follow-up sales, and newfound fans eager for more.

  The takeaway? The overwhelmingly higher response rate on the free book changes the math entirely. Free isn’t about giving something away.

  It’s about creating momentum—and monetizing it on the other side.

  Guardrails: When Free Works Best

  So, we now know that free can be a powerful strategy, but like most things, it works best in certain scenarios. To get the most bang for your promotional and strategic buck, use free when:

  • You’re Promoting a Series

  Making Book 1 free is a proven strategy for series authors. You hook readers with the first installment, and if they’re invested in your story or characters, they’ll happily pay for Books 2, 3, and beyond.

  Tip: Use your back matter to point readers to the next book. A simple “Keep reading!” with a link works wonders.

  • You’re Offering Digital Goods

  Free works best with ebooks (and audiobooks). Why? Zero cost to you, instant delivery to the reader, and no inventory or shipping concerns.

  Paperbacks, on the other hand, come with production costs and logistics, making them less ideal for zero-cost giveaways.

  • Your Back Matter Is Optimized

  Don’t stop at “The End.” Use the final pages of your book to convert new readers into long-term fans. This is your golden moment to guide them toward:

  • Your next book (with a link)
  • Your email list (with a signup incentive)
  • A review request (“Enjoyed this book? A quick review helps others discover it!”)

  Pro tip: Keep it warm, clear, and reader-focused. No hard sell needed—just a friendly nudge in the right direction.

  TL;DR:

How Written Word Media Can Help

When you’re ready to run a free promo, we make it easy—and effective.

Whether you’re launching a new series, reviving an old one, or trying to grow your list, our tools are built to help you reach thousands of readers fast.

Freebooksy Email Promotions

• • Put your book in front of readers who are actively looking for free titles in your genre
  • High-intent audience = more downloads, more reviews, more exposure

• Your promo is sent via email directly to readers, not just tossed into the void
  

Free Promo Stacks

• • Combine Freebooksy with other top free promo platforms
  • One form, one payment—we handle the rest
  • Perfect for maximizing visibility across multiple audiences at once

• Ideal for series authors who want to drive serious download numbers in one go
  

For romance eBooks, Red Feather Romance also offers highly effective free promos.

Quick. Simple. Author-Friendly.

No complicated tech. No guessing. Just a few clicks to schedule your promo, and our team takes it from there.

You write the book. We get it into readers’ hands.

In Summary

Free works—when it’s part of a smart strategy. Ready to run a promo that makes an impact?

Visit Written Word Media to schedule your Promo Stack today. 

The post Free Promotions: The Secret Psychological Impact of Zero Cost (and How it Can Work for Authors) appeared first on Written Word Media.

Whether you’re a coach, a consultant, a memoirist, or a niche expert with a story to tell, we’re sharing real-world advice to help you rise above the crowd and actually connect with your readers.

Here’s a recap of the key insights from Sarah’s session. Grab your favorite highlighter and notebook — there’s gold in here.

Don’t Start with “Bestseller” as Your Goal

Yes, bestseller status is shiny. But chasing it often leads to short-term, unsustainable strategies. Instead, try to:

• Start with the end in mind. What do you really want your book to do? Generate leads? Build your brand? Get you speaking gigs?

• Write with purpose. Your book isn’t just about you — it’s for your reader. Focus on the transformation you’re offering them.

“Your book might be about you, but it’s not for you.” – Sarah Bean

Know Your Reader — Like, Really Know Them

Spoiler alert: Your reader isn’t everyone.

Move beyond vague demographics. Instead, dig deep:

• What are your readers struggling with?

• Where do they hang out (online and off)?

• What have they tried already that didn’t work?

• How do they talk about their problems?

The better you understand your readers, the more your book will feel like it was written just for them.

Nail Your Hook — Before You Write a Word

Your “hook” is the magnetic message that makes people say, “I need this book.” And it should answer this sequence:

• A: What’s the problem your reader is facing?

• B: What’s your unique solution?

• C: What’s the outcome of the outcome?

For example, a book on financial freedom isn’t just about budgeting — it’s about the freedom to travel, to quit that 9–5, to finally sleep well at night. That’s what you’re really selling.

Use Your Book’s Assets as Sales Tools

It’s not just your content that matters — it’s how you present it.

• Title & Subtitle: Short, memorable, and SEO-friendly.

• Cover: It needs to pop as a thumbnail. Think contrast, clarity, and emotion.

• Table of Contents: Each chapter title should spark curiosity and highlight a benefit.

Your Amazon “Look Inside” preview? That’s prime real estate. Use it to sell the transformation.

Get Platform-Ready: Build Your Author Assets

Want to attract media, endorsements, or influencers? Then prep like the pro you are. Here’s Sarah’s checklist:

Website (even a simple one)
Social media presence
Lead magnet + mailing list
Editorial + reader reviews
Media kit
Videos of you speaking or presenting (yes, even on Zoom!)

Be ready when opportunity knocks — and have your virtual “headshots in the car.”

Leverage Other People’s Audiences

Don’t just build your own audience — borrow others (ethically, of course).

• Create a “dream list” of influencers, podcasters, and community leaders in your niche.

• Follow and engage with them before you pitch.

• Look for ways to offer value (share their content, recommend their work).

• When you reach out, be clear on what you want: a blurb, a podcast invite, a social post.

It’s a long game — relationships come first, the ask comes later.

Final Takeaway: Build First, Then Brag

Authors often think: “Once my book is out, I’ll start marketing.” But your marketing needs to start before the first word is written. Don’t wait for opportunity to knock. Set out the welcome mat. Robert Belle did just that. A numbers guy by trade, Robert is an accountant who dared to do something unexpected — he wrote a book about creativity. His goal? To help other professionals (yes, even the spreadsheet-loving ones) reconnect with their creative spark and let it fuel their careers.

His book, Blow the Lid Off: Reclaim Your Stolen Creativity, Increase Your Income, and Let Your Light Shine!, didn’t just sit quietly on a shelf. Because Robert had put in the prep work — building a website, creating resources, and thinking deeply about his message — he was ready when a major opportunity came calling: a TED Global Talk.

Not just TEDx. The big leagues.

And because he was prepared — because he built it — his talk was selected, went live, and garnered over two million views in its first year. His book sales surged. His inbox started filling up with leads. And most importantly, his message got out there.

The moral of the story? Your book is a calling card. But your brand — your platform, your prep, your perspective — is what opens the door.

So write the book. Build the funnel. Polish the pitch. Even if the “what’s next” feels uncertain.

Because when the moment comes — and it will — you’ll be ready to shine.

Bonus Resource from Sarah

Want to dive deeper? Download the free audiobook version of Self-Promote and Succeed by Book Launchers founder Julie Broad at selfpromoteandsucceed.com/audio.

Want More Content Like This?

Register for our next Speaker Series! Each month we host live Speaker Series sessions with book marketing and self publishing experts. Anyone can join the live sessions and Gold & Platinum Members can watch the recordings any time!

The post How to Stand Out in the Crowded Nonfiction Market appeared first on Written Word Media.

Events like this give us the chance to listen, learn, and share—to hear firsthand what’s working (and what’s not) in the ever-evolving world of publishing. Whether it’s a seasoned pro launching their next bestseller or a debut author diving into book marketing for the first time, these conversations remind us why we do what we do: helping authors reach readers.

If you’re new to Future of Publishing and Writer MBA, think of it as part conference, part intensive training—100% focused on building sustainable author careers. In their keynotes, founders Russell Nohelty and Monica Leonelle reflected on how their niche—direct sales, Kickstarter campaigns, special editions, and other non-traditional strategies—once operated on the fringes of publishing. Now? There’s an entire conference dedicated to these approaches, packed with authors successfully leveraging them.

Let’s be honest—being an author today is both exhilarating and overwhelming. AI is shaking up the industry, direct sales are booming, and marketing strategies are shifting constantly. It’s a lot to navigate. That’s why this conference exists: to cut through the noise and focus on what actually works.

But the real magic? The conversations. The conference was intentionally designed to provide what authors need—other authors sharing real experiences and learnings.

Here are our five biggest takeaways from Future of Publishing / Writer MBA 2025.

1. Special Editions: The Fandom Factor
2. Direct Sales Are Exciting—But Not Straightforward
3. AI: A Tool, Not a Takeover
4. Translations Are an Opportunity—But Not a Shortcut
5. Authors Need Community—Now More Than Ever

1. Special Editions: The Fandom Factor

One of our favorite conversations was about special edition books—because wow, do readers love them! It’s no surprise, the books are beautiful with covers made from luxury materials like velvet or vegan leather. Shiny foil pages, sprayed edges, and full-color illustrations are placed throughout these special books. The books work well as trophies for your Zoom background, conversation starters, and even (gasp) reading! 

From foil stamping and velvet covers to full-page illustrations and leather-bound editions, premium books are more than just a trend—they’re a way to deepen reader loyalty.

There’s a variety of vendors to get these books created. At Future of Publishing, there were a variety of vendors who displayed their ability to make special editions. Specifically Bookvault, The Inkfluence, and IngramSpark all showcased special edition products. Bookvault and IngramSpark help with fulfillment in addition to printing. Better pricing can be gained by using vendors like The Inkfluence, who outsource the production overseas, but the tradeoff is lead time (expect 75+ days from start to finish), and you’ll need to handle fulfillment yourself.

The margins can be higher on these special editions due to the quality of the product and the increase in reader demand. This presents an opportunity for indie authors who are used to razor-thin margins on Print-On-Demand books. 

If you need money to get one of these books printed, Kickstarter is a popular funding option, but results vary, and bringing your own audience is key to making this option work. For authors with a strong fanbase, these special editions can be a fantastic way to increase revenue, but they work best when paired with a strong marketing plan.

2. Direct Sales Are Exciting—But Not Straightforward

There’s no doubt that authors are taking control of their sales like never before. More and more are setting up Shopify stores, running Kickstarters, and building email lists to sell directly to readers. Authors are excited about the benefits of selling directly—they get to keep their customer data and a greater percentage of each sale.

The energy is there, but so are the challenges:

• Many authors struggle with services WooCommerce, Shopify, and Klaviyo—they’re learning as they go and that learning curve can slow down speed-to-market and add monthly costs.
• Reviews on direct sales pages are tricky (Amazon reviews can’t legally be copied to a Shopify store, for example), so authors are sometimes ‘starting over’ with respect to reviews on their direct stores.
• More platforms like Bookvault, Curios, and IngramSpark are stepping up to help authors with the challenges involved in direct sales.

We love seeing this shift, but it’s clear that direct sales require serious organization. Authors are becoming small e-commerce companies and it takes work to get that right. The authors who are thriving here are treating their books like a business—planning ahead, tracking data, and staying laser-focused on what works.

3. AI: A Tool, Not a Takeover

Of course, we had plenty of AI conversations—and the consensus was consistent:

• AI-enabled services for narration and translation should unlock those markets for authors by bringing costs down substantially. Expect more authors to be able to enter foreign markets and release audio in the near future.
• Some authors are experimenting with custom AI assistants (think “Ads Expert GPT” or “Creative GPT” to give multiple perspectives).
• Skepticism is still strong. Most authors aren’t using AI for actual writing, but they are testing it for admin tasks, productivity, and marketing.

Our take? AI can save time—but it won’t replace the human touch that makes books special. The authors who use it best are the ones who know when (and when not) to lean on it.

4. Translations Are an Opportunity—But Not a Shortcut

We had some great discussions about bringing books to international markets, and Melissa Storm gave us the intel on what that actually looks like:

• Germany is the second-largest book market after the U.S. representing a big opportunity—but it is also a competitive market, so make sure to plan marketing in addition to translating your book.
• Spanish translations should target Spain, not Latin America (the dialect differences matter!).
• AI translation tools like ScribeShadow and DeepL are getting better, but human translators are still the gold standard.
• Expect to pay about $.01 to $.05 per word for translation depending on the market.

Our takeaway? Translations can open up new revenue streams—but only if done strategically.  If you want to enter a new market, do so with a plan and intention. Set a budget for the translation, the cover redesign, and the marketing so you set yourself up for success. It’s not a “set it and forget it” process.

5. Authors Need Community—Now More Than Ever

This was, hands down, one of the biggest themes of the event:

• Authors need support. Publishing is overwhelming and often lonely. Sometimes, authors don’t need a new tool—they just need support from their fellow creatives. The conference was a great way for authors to meet each other and find support. There were exercises to help the historically introverted writers find each other and share notes.
• One of the themes of the conference was that each of us has ‘locks’ or problems and that other people have ‘keys’ that can help us. By finding each other, the keys unlock the locks and enable success. 
• The most successful authors we met have accountability groups—just 2-3 trusted peers who can trade notes, share solutions, and help keep themselves on track.
• Writing cohorts and mentorship programs are in demand—authors want structure and support.

This hit home for us. At Written Word Media, we always aim to be more than just a service—we want to be a partner for authors. These conversations reinforced just how important that is.

Spotlight on Free Promos 

At the conference, Ferol Vernon, our COO, delivered an insightful and data-driven talk on “Free Promotions: The Secret Psychological Impact of Zero Cost and Why It Works.” With his signature blend of expertise and approachability, Ferol broke down why the word “free” is far more than just a pricing strategy—it’s a powerful psychological trigger that influences reader behavior in profound ways.

He shared compelling data and real-world case studies from some of the world’s biggest companies, showing how “free” drives profitability for them and relaying how the indie author community can use these same techniques. He spoke about how free book promotions can drive massive downloads, boost an author’s visibility, and create a ripple effect of reviews and long-term sales. Whether you’re launching on Amazon, selling direct, or experimenting with Kickstarter, the psychology behind “free” remains the same—it’s a secret driver for massive attention, drives downloads, and builds long-term reader loyalty.

Final Thoughts

What makes events like this one so special isn’t just the panels or the insights—it’s the conversations.

It’s sitting down with an author who’s feeling stuck and helping them find clarity.

It’s hearing from a writer who used one of our email promotions and finally hit their sales goal.

It’s a reminder that, no matter where you are in your career, you’re not alone in this journey.

The publishing world is changing fast—but with the right knowledge, tools, and community, authors can stay ahead.

Whether you’re:

• Experimenting with AI
• Selling direct to readers
• Scaling your marketing strategy
• Building long-term success

…staying plugged into events like this is key.

And as always, Written Word Media is here to support you.

Our email promotions and ads help authors reach more readers—without the stress. Because in an ocean of books, we want to shine a light on yours.

The post Key Takeaways from Future of Publishing / Writer MBA 2025 appeared first on Written Word Media.

Beth is a leadership and executive coach with over 20 years of experience helping people stay resilient through life’s challenges. Her Benatti Resiliency Model has helped thousands of professionals overcome stress, avoid burnout, and keep their passion alive—even when the going gets tough. She’s also the author of Career Recharge: Five Strategies to Boost Resilience and Beat Burnout, so she knows a thing or two about bouncing back. Beth recently shared her proven strategies with us and they aren’t just for corporate execs or managers—these are tools you can use as an author to stay creative, productive, and engaged, even when the writing life gets hard.

Why Resilience Matters to Authors

As authors, you pour yourselves into your work, often battling deadlines, writer’s block, and the ever-persistent imposter syndrome. According to a Gallup study, only 32% of people feel engaged in their careers. Yikes! For younger folks, aged 18 to 29, nearly half report experiencing symptoms of burnout. Sound familiar?

But fear not, we’re here to help reverse those burnout symptoms and get you back to feeling excited about your passions.

The Five Pillars of the Benatti Resiliency Model

Beth’s approach to resilience is built on five core pillars, and spoiler alert, they’re as applicable to us wordsmiths as they are to anyone else:

1. Well-being – Small changes can have big impacts. Even something as simple as taking a few moments for deep breathing or enjoying a brief walk can help reset your brain and boost productivity. (Fun fact: dark chocolate helps release feel-good brain chemicals. Permission to indulge granted! )
2. Self-awareness – Know thyself. Whether it’s understanding your triggers or knowing when to say “no,” being self-aware is critical to resilience. Take stock of what gets your creativity flowing and what might be zapping your energy.
3. Brand – Your personal brand as an author is all about how you show up to the world, both online and offline. Are you letting your strengths shine through? Your brand should be authentic, intentional, and aligned with your long-term goals.
4. Connection – Writing can be a lonely journey, but staying connected with your writing community (or just your support system) is crucial. Whether it’s bouncing ideas off a fellow author or simply catching up with a friend, human connection fuels resilience.
5. Innovation – This one’s for all of us creative types! Keep your brain flexible by trying new things—whether it’s picking up a new writing style, engaging with a different genre, or simply changing up your writing routine. Innovation keeps the spark alive.

Resilience is Like a Sailboat

Yep, resilience is like a sailboat. You can’t always control the wind, but you can adjust your sails. As writers, we often face storms—bad reviews, creative slumps, or rejection letters—but it’s all about adjusting your approach and staying the course.

Practical Takeaways for Writers

Here are a couple of key strategies to help maintain resilience in our day-to-day lives:

• The Pause Breath – If you’re ever feeling overwhelmed, try this: inhale for four counts, hold for two, and exhale for four. It’s a simple, quick way to calm your mind before tackling that next chapter.
• Connection Strategy – Once a month, make a point to reconnect with two people in your network. Building and maintaining relationships is a critical part of staying resilient.
• The Friday Five – Every Friday, spend five minutes reflecting on your week: what were your wins, what can you work on, and how will you approach next week? It’s a mini-reset to keep your writing journey fresh and focused.

In Conclusion

Resilience isn’t just about pushing through—it’s about adapting, recharging, and giving yourself the tools to thrive in the long term. Whether you’re just starting your writing journey or you’ve been at it for years, these strategies are practical, actionable, and designed to help you stay engaged and energized. Writing is a marathon, not a sprint, and having the right tools to avoid burnout and bounce back from setbacks can make all the difference. Want more? Check out Beth’s free Resilience Benchmark and assess yourself on the five strategies of the Benatti Resiliency Model. Keep writing, stay resilient, and remember—your story matters!

Want More Content Like This?

Register for our next Speaker Series! Each month we host live Speaker Series sessions with book marketing and self publishing experts. Anyone can join the live sessions and Gold & Platinum Members can watch the recordings any time!

The post Boost Resilience and Beat Burnout appeared first on Written Word Media.

2024 has been a year of challenges and triumphs for authors. The publishing world continues to evolve, bringing new opportunities alongside obstacles. Whether you navigated shifting algorithms, tackled your first book launch, or balanced writing with life’s many curveballs, we’ve seen your determination shine. 

Writing is not just an art; it’s an act of bravery. And this year, you proved (again) just how resilient and inspiring authors can be .

Here’s what 2024 looked like for you, our author community:

Stories told, worlds created: Thousands of books were launched into the hands of eager readers this year. Your stories made readers laugh, cry, escape, and connect.

Goals achieved: We saw many of you hit personal milestones—whether it was completing that long-dreamed-of trilogy, earning a bestseller badge, or simply finishing that first draft (no small feat!).

Community built: This year, authors came together stronger than ever. From attending conferences like NINC, 20Books Vegas, and Self-Publishing Show Live (SPS) to online forums and local meetups, you created a network of shared knowledge and encouragement.

How We Partnered with You in 2024

This year, we took huge strides in our mission to help you connect with your ideal readers and make marketing simple.

Here are a few highlights:

Building bigger audiences for you: We partnered with RetireHub and Bookclubs to open up completely new audiences of readers for authors. These partnerships help us connect your books with genre-loving readers you might not reach otherwise.

Empowering you with direct links: We introduced the ability to include direct links to your author store in our Freebooksy, Bargain Booksy, and Red Feather Romance newsletters. By connecting readers directly to your personal storefront—alongside traditional retail links—we’re giving you more control over your audience and your sales. This update came straight from your feedback, and we’re thrilled to help you connect with readers on your own terms.

Adding promo partners to save you time and money: We’ve teamed up with seven promo sites (from Hello Books to Book Barbarian) making it easier than ever to quickly build promo stacks and include multiple platforms in your marketing efforts. These new partnerships allowed us to create 80 (yes, eighty!) new Promo Stacks this year to help you share your titles with more readers. 

Expanding Subscriber Surge Giveaways (SSG): In 2024, we expanded our Subscriber Surge Giveaways, helping more authors grow their email lists with engaged, genre-specific readers. Directly connecting with readers is one of the most important ways to build a sustainable author career, and SSG gives you the tools to foster that connection and keep readers coming back for more.

Revolutionizing Book Launches with NewInBooks!: We completely revamped our NewInBooks Book Launch Packages to provide authors with a more tailored experience. From one-on-one access to dedicated book launch specialists to expertly crafted promotional strategies, we’ve designed these packages to deliver not just better results, but the right results. Whether it’s driving sales, generating buzz, or reaching the top of your category, NewInBooks has everything you need to launch your book like a pro.

Everything we’ve done this year has been driven by a simple goal: to help you spend less time on marketing logistics and more time doing what you love—writing great books.

Looking ahead to 2025…

As we close out the year, we’re doubling down on our mission to be your one-stop shop for book marketing. We want to make it easy and accessible for authors at all stages of their writing careers to connect with readers.

Expect to see more partnerships, expanded tools, and services designed to make marketing seamless, effective, and even a little fun (yes, fun!). We believe every author deserves a shot at building an audience, and in 2025, we’ll continue working hard to make that happen.

But for now, let’s take a moment to celebrate everything you’ve accomplished this year. YOU are the heart of the Written Word Media community, and we’re so proud to be part of your journey.

Thank you for trusting us with your books and for inspiring us every day with your creativity and perseverance. We can’t wait to see what you’ll create in 2025.

The post Celebrating Your Stories: A Look Back at 2024 📚 appeared first on Written Word Media.

If the chaos feels like it’s catching up to you, don’t worry: you’re not alone. Today we want to tell you about a proven way to turn that chaos into calm. Enter the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS)—a framework designed to help you build a thriving, organized business while keeping your sanity intact. Let’s dive into how EOS can organize your author career so you can achieve your goals, not just keep your head above water.

Why Authors Need Systems (Spoiler: It’s Not to Kill Your Creativity)

Writing is an art, but being a modern author? That’s a business, and businesses need systems. Systems aren’t about stifling creativity—they’re about clearing the clutter so creativity has room to stretch out. Systems aren’t your enemy—they’re your secret weapon.  With systems in place, you can focus your brainpower on being wildly creative.

Here’s how systems can save your time and sanity:

• Reduce decision fatigue: Why waste energy figuring out where you left that beta reader’s email when you could use that brainpower to craft a vivid plot twist?
• Streamline daily operations: A system for marketing campaigns, writing schedules, and admin tasks keeps you moving forward.
• Stay consistent: Systems make it easier to maintain the habits that lead to success, like publishing regularly or engaging with your audience.

What is EOS?

The Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) was created by Gino Wickman and introduced in his book Traction. It has traditionally been used by tech startups and small businesses to get organized and fuel growth. Guess what? As a modern author you are a small business, and the EOS principles apply perfectly to authors who are serious about their craft and career. 

EOS for authors is built around four pillars:

1. Clarify your vision so you know where you’re heading.
2. Set achievable goals that bring you closer to that vision.
3. Track your progress with meaningful metrics.
4. Solve problems effectively when they arise.

For the next sections, read through each pillar with an open mind. At the end of the article we’ll get to the tactics of how to actually implement EOS. We have a link to a spreadsheet you can copy and start filling out. 

Step 1: Define Your Vision—Your North Star  

Your vision is the foundation of everything you do. Without a clear vision, it’s easy to get stuck in the weeds of daily tasks and lose sight of your bigger goals. Don’t just think about your vision, write it down. 

Use the Vision Traction Organizer (V/TO) to clarify:

• Your mission: Why do you write? What impact do you want your stories to have?
• Your long-term goals: Where do you see yourself in 3, 5, or 10 years? Think beyond the next book. What does life look like in a decade?
• Your unique value: What makes your stories, voice, or approach to storytelling stand out? i
• Your process: How will you consistently deliver quality work to your readers?

Here’s a concrete example:

• Mission: To be a prolific writer, and make a living doing what I love.
• 10-Year Goal: To publish 20 novels and generate $100,000 annually in book revenue.
• Unique Value: Unique world-building and diverse characters that resonate with modern readers.
• Process: I write every day from 7am-10am, and pay attention to my readers’ reviews.

Now here’s another example from a writer with a totally different approach:

• Mission: To make readers understand the beauty of my hometown, Black Mountain, North Carolina.
• 10-Year Goal: To publish 3 books set in Black Mountain while still keeping my day job.
• Unique Value: I know the town better than anyone, and it’s my life’s work to write about it.
• Process: I write at the local coffee shop on weekends, so I’m surrounded by locals who inspire me.

The point of the previous examples is that it doesn’t matter what your mission is, what matters is that you write it down and stay true to it. Once it’s written down it becomes a powerful way to guide your action.

It’s often helpful to think about these questions in a quiet place and journal to help uncover the answers. Everyone’s journey and motivation are different, and that’s okay. The important part is figuring out your unique vision, and putting pen to paper.

Step 2: Set Your Big Goals (A.K.A. Rocks)

Big dreams are built on small, actionable goals. EOS calls these goals “Rocks.” Why Rocks? Think about trying to fill a jar with sand, pebbles, and big rocks. If you start with the pebbles and sand, you will never get the big rocks to fit, but if you start with Rocks, you can add the sand and pebbles afterwards to fill in the jar. Focus on the big stuff first. 

Each quarter, choose three SMART Rocks:

• Specific
• Measurable
• Attainable
• Relevant
• Time-bound

Good Rocks:

• Write 30,000 words for your next novel by March 31. 
• Schedule and run two promotional email campaigns using services like Written Word Media’s Freebooksy and Bargain Booksy.
• Hire a virtual assistant to manage social media.

Bad Rocks:

• “Become a bestseller” (great aspiration, but not actionable for one quarter).
• “Write more” (too vague—set a word count instead).

Step 3: Track Your Progress—Know Your Numbers

Goals only get achieved if you track them, and tracking is half the battle. Create a scorecard with 5–10 key metrics that align with your goals. For authors, these might include:

• Weekly word count
• Newsletter sign-ups
• Sales and Kindle Unlimited (KENP) page reads
• New reviews
• Time spent on writing vs. admin tasks

Tracking can be a great way to stay motivated. Watching yourself hit your numbers is exciting and satisfying. Less is more here, if you can only think of 3 numbers to track, then just track 3! Don’t get stuck, just pick a few important ones and start monitoring them. 

Step 4: Solve Issues

Rarely do things stay on course perfectly week after week. Life happens. Your pet bunny might chew your internet cable and shut down your entire home office for a few days (maybe that’s just me). That’s why EOS includes structured problem-solving. If a goal is off track, ask:

• Identify the problem: What’s not working? (e.g., “I keep missing my word count goals.”)
• Find the root cause: Why is this happening? (e.g., “I’m spending too much time on social media.”)
• Take action: What can you do to fix it? (e.g., “Set a timer for writing and limit social media to 30 minutes per day.”)

EOS calls this process Identify, Discuss, Solve (IDS). As a solopreneur author, you can skip the Discuss step. The important part is not to dwell on the problem, but to move swiftly to a ‘solve’ so you can make progress.

Staying Accountable (Even as a Solo Author)

Accountability isn’t about pressure—it’s about support. When you share your goals with someone, you’re more likely to stay motivated and celebrate your wins. Accountability is a cornerstone of EOS. But what if you’re a team of one? Share your goals with someone—a writing group, a trusted friend, a spouse, or even Written Word Media! Tell your goals to anyone who will listen. You can always email your Rocks or goals to accountable@writtenwordmedia.com for encouragement and follow-through. 

We are here to support you!

Make EOS Work for You 

EOS is great, but use it in a way that works for you. Whether you’re juggling two kids and a pet bunny, or focused solely on your next bestseller, you can adapt EOS to fit your needs. It’s okay to start small:

• Set one vision-based goal. (Example: Publish 1 book in 2025.)
• Choose three Rocks for this quarter. (Example: Write 30,000 words, schedule two email promos, and track weekly sales.)
• Track one metric that matters. (Example: Weekly word count.)

And remember, if you need marketing help, Written Word Media is here for you with proven services like Freebooksy, Bargain Booksy, and Reader Reach Ads. We can take some of the marketing weight off your shoulders so you can focus on writing your next masterpiece.

Ready to get organized? Ready to achieve goals? Let’s do it! Download the EOS for Authors template here.

Final Thoughts: Stay Sane, Stay Successful

Systems don’t just make your author business more efficient — they make it focused, fun and successful. EOS is a system that can help you stay on track and keep the chaos at bay. Take a deep breath, grab that Vision Traction Organizer, and start planning your author’s success story.

Need an accountability partner or have questions? Drop me an email at accountable@writtenwordmedia.com. You’ve got this!

The post How to Get Organized in 2025: Growing Your Author Business Without Losing Your Mind appeared first on Written Word Media.

1. Know Your “Why”

One of the most important questions every writer needs to ask themselves is “What’s your why?” Why did you start writing in the first place? It could be a desire to share stories, to leave a legacy, or even to escape the daily grind. Whatever it is, hold onto that and let that drive your motivation.

In Michael’s case, a near-death experience shook him into action. But don’t worry, you don’t need a hospital stay to find your motivation (and hopefully you never will!). Just remember: Your “why” is your secret weapon against the dreaded writer’s block.

2. Tools Are Your Friends

Ever felt like Microsoft Word is fighting you every step of the way? Try to find a writing tool that feels like an extension of your fingers. The key is to find the app that fits you best—then master it. Here’s a game-changer: use your phone. Yep, you read that right. If an idea comes to you while grocery shopping or walking the dog, go ahead and type out a few sentences or even dictate a chapter. If you’re someone with a hectic schedule, consider mobile writing apps like Scrivener, Word, or Google Docs to sneak in writing time whenever, wherever.

Bonus tip: Scrivener is $20 for iPhone and iPad. If you’re tired of fighting with your desktop, this could be the best $20 you’ll ever spend!

3. Time Management for Writers

Time management can be broken down into three categories:

• Add time: Find extra moments in your day by automating tasks (robot vacuum, anyone?) or waking up earlier.
• Edit time: Cut down on the social media scroll and redirect those minutes into writing.
• Delete time: Reconsider hobbies that don’t contribute to your writing life. Could video games take a back seat for a while?

The key takeaway: you don’t need endless hours to write more. It’s all about reclaiming lost time.

4. Silencing Writer’s Block (For Good)

If you’ve ever stared down a blinking cursor and thought, “I have nothing to say,” you’re not alone. Here’s some hard-hitting advice for tackling writer’s block: Know your enemy.

Writer’s block comes from three main sources:

• Fear: Are you imagining or remembering something that’s causing anxiety? (Hint: If a saber-tooth tiger isn’t in the room, your brain might be playing tricks on you.)
• Lack of inspiration: Sometimes the creative well runs dry. Reading, people-watching, or doing something out of the ordinary can help refill it.
• Life: Life gets in the way sometimes, and that’s okay. Recognize when it’s time to step back, handle your life, and return to writing with renewed energy.

If you’re ready to take the next step, we highly recommend checking out Michael’s books, Be a Writing Machine and Be a Writing Machine 2. With 150+ reviews on Amazon, these best-sellers are packed with strategies to help you write smarter and faster.

Want More Content Like This?

Register for our next Speaker Series! Each month we host live Speaker Series sessions with book marketing and self publishing experts. Anyone can join the live sessions and Gold & Platinum Members can watch the recordings any time!

The post Be a Writing Machine appeared first on Written Word Media.