by Bianca Raven

Created on: August 23, 2008

Once your book is on the market, how do you keep it there as long as possible?

It's easier than you think!

So many new authors forget the importance of promotion, focusing instead on the writing process. But success in publishing has a lot to do with sales figures. Let's face it - publishers are in the business of making a profit for themselves and they can only do this if their authors keep selling books!

The way it works is simple. If you sell all the books your publisher printed and it's still selling well, the publisher will print more and keep it on the market.

If an author's books stop selling, then a publisher might take those books off the market. Nobody likes to see this happen, so let's look at ways you can keep your books ON those shelves and selling well.

1. Create a Buzz

Reviews help readers to know what your book is about. Good reviews can mean the difference between someone buying your book or leaving it on the shelf.

There are plenty of places on the 'net that will review books. Submit your book to as many as you can and get those reviews rolling.

When you have a few positive reviews, ask permission from the reviewer to use that review as a testimonial to put on your own website. These positive comments, along with positive reviews can really see your sales sky-rocket.

2. Increase Your Sales Options

If your book is available for sale in chain bookstores only - how do you reach readers who DON'T visit chain bookstores? The answer is to broaden your sales options.

Online bookstores are gaining in popularity every day. Get your book listed on Amazon or other online bookstores. Link to your book's sales page from your own website or perhaps ask friends to link to it as well.

Another great option is small independent bookstores. Approach the manager and see if they'd like to stock your book on their shelves as well.

3. Change formats

If your book is available in print only, check your publishing contract and see if the electronic rights are available to you. If they are, get your book out in electronic format as well. Some people prefer to download their books - others prefer print books.

If you offer both options, you've potentially increased your sales and gained a new reader at the same time.

4. Promote Your BackList

Many new writers don't hear the term "BackList" very often - but it's vitally important in your publisher's eyes. If you have more than one title, then your new book is the New Title, but your older work becomes your Back List.

If a reader buys your

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