Getting Off the Social Media Hamster Wheel: Sustainable Book Promotion
Let’s be real: posting every day, chasing algorithms, and burning out while yelling “Buy my book!” into the void?
It’s not working.
At least not for most authors—and definitely not for the long haul.
You don’t need to be everywhere all the time.
You need a strategy that actually works for you—and doesn’t eat your writing time alive. 🐹💨
Here’s how to build book promotion that’s sustainable, aligned, and doesn’t require selling your soul to the scroll:
🧭 Start With Your Strengths
Hate making videos? Don’t do it.
Love writing emails, creating Pinterest boards, or giving live talks? Lean in.
You don’t have to be on every platform. You just have to show up consistently where you feel most comfortable and your readers are likely to be.
🔁 Shift From Constant Promotion to Consistent Presence
The goal isn’t to constantly pitch—it’s to consistently connect.
Try this rhythm:
– 70% value-driven content (behind-the-scenes, tips, quotes, reader engagement)
– 20% personal (life updates, humor, what you’re reading)
– 10% promotional (book news, events, buy links)
Let people want to hear from you. Then, when it’s time to sell, they’re already listening.
📬 Build an Email List (Seriously)
Social media platforms come and go.
Your email list? That’s yours.
Even one email a month can keep your readers engaged—and you don’t have to fight an algorithm to reach them.
Offer a freebie or bonus content as a sign-up incentive, and focus on quality over quantity.
📚 Think Beyond the Feed
There are so many ways to promote your book without relying on daily posts:
– Book clubs & libraries
– Podcast interviews
– Local events or school visits
– Cross-promos with other authors
– Guest blog posts
– Goodreads giveaways
– Amazon ads or BookBub deals
Pick 2–3 that fit your personality and your bandwidth, and go deep instead of wide. 🎯
🧠 Batch & Schedule
If you do use social media, don’t live in it.
Spend one day a month planning content. Use scheduling tools to post. Then check in a few minutes a day to respond or engage. That’s it.
You’re a writer, not a full-time content creator. Protect your creative energy.
❤️ Build Relationships, Not Just Reach
Followers come and go. Readers who feel seen and valued? They stick around.
Answer comments. Share your journey. Be honest. Be you.
Connection is the most powerful marketing tool you have—and it doesn’t require viral trends or 12-hour screen time.
Bottom line?
Your worth isn’t tied to your follower count.
Your success doesn’t hinge on trending audio.
And your book deserves more than burnout.
📣 Build a promotion plan that nourishes your audience and your creative self.
Need help making a solid promotion plan that fits YOU? Schedule a mentorship call today!
