How to Market aSelf-Published Book

Focus on free channels that compound: optimize your Amazon listing, build a mailing list with a reader magnet, pitch podcasts and blogs in your niche, take part in reader communities without spamming, and run an advance reader program for early reviews.

It depends on the book. Genre fiction usually does best with Amazon Ads, a mailing list and series momentum. Nonfiction and business books often do best with podcasts, speaking, and the author's professional network. In every case, a strong cover and description come first.

Ideally about three months before release, so you have time to finalize the listing, recruit advance readers, set up an eBook pre-order, and book media. If the book is already out, you can still start now with a relaunch.

KDP Select is a 90-day program for Kindle eBooks that adds your book to Kindle Unlimited and gives access to Kindle Countdown Deals and free promotions, in exchange for keeping the eBook exclusive to Amazon. It often suits genre fiction; authors who want wide eBook distribution usually skip it.

Spend only what your royalty math supports. Start small, measure results against your royalty per sale, and increase spending only on channels that earn back what they cost.

It can for some genres and authors, especially where readers actively discuss books, but it takes consistent time. For most authors, one well-chosen platform plus a mailing list works better than trying to be everywhere.

Not for Amazon customer reviews. Amazon doesn't allow reviews in exchange for payment or required in exchange for free copies. Paid editorial reviews from trade review services are a separate category and are not Amazon customer reviews.

Some channels, like ads and promotions, show results within days. Others, like a mailing list, podcasts, or series momentum, build over months. Plan for at least 90 days before judging a strategy.