In this episode, Jodi speaks with Ashley Shepherd, an author and book marketing strategist, about the often-overlooked but powerful strategy of leveraging preorders for self-published books. Ashley breaks down the distinction between preorders and presales, the benefits for self-published authors, and her preferred method of hosting preorders on websites to maximize profit and control. The conversation highlights timeline considerations and best practices for business owners writing books.

 

Time Stamps: 00:00 Ashley: Author, consultant, helps authors market books.

03:53 Self-publishing: Control, profit through preorders, financial relief.

07:48 Host own preorders to enhance profitability, experience.

13:25 Complete illustrations before launching children's book preorder.

16:24 Extend launch period; appreciate pre-order customers.

18:10 Real-time insights aid group process, gather feedback.

22:58 Business insights and motivational affirmations from friends.

24:47 Using algorithms to easily reach audiences online.

Keywords: Write Publish Market podcast, business owners, CEOs, authors, book marketing, self publishing, pre orders, pre sales, book launch, developmental editing, preorder period, book launch experience, Amazon KDP, self published authors, traditionally published authors, direct sales, Stripe payment processor, crowdfunding, shipping errors, handwritten cards, private podcast, upsells, down sells, trip wires, SEO, customer data, business model, affirmations, motivation, imposter syndrome, social media

Resources Mentioned:

Ready Set Write Challenge: www.jodibrandoneditorial.com/readysetwrite

Uncloned Marketing by Audrey Richmond

A Bunch of Dope Affirmations for My Homies by Alex Nemo Hands

About Our Guest:

Ashley Shepard is a self-publishing consultant and book marketing strategist based in the metro Atlanta, GA area. As the owner of Shep Publishing House, Ashley helps self-published authors get from the page to the people™with efficient and effective marketing strategies. 

 

Client wins include selling 100 books sold in a week, $10,000 made in presale revenue, speaking gigs secured, book launch parties sold out, and much more. Shep Publishing House focuses on helping authors connect with their audience to publish profitably.

 

With a background in literacy, teacher coaching, and staff development, Ashley is able to explain complex marketing and publishing ideas in simple terms to help authors and entrepreneurs reach their goals. Unlike most book marketers and publishers, Ashley has the unique quality of being a best selling author herself. This insight helps her to make realistic suggestions and effective options to support client needs.

 

LINKS:

Book Site: www.ProfitableSelfPublishing.com

Main Site: Www.ShepPublishingHouse.com

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ShepPublishing

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ShepPublishing

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ShepPublishing

Instagram: www.Instagram.com/ShepPublishing

LINK TO FULL EPISODE (RAW) TRANSCRIPT:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1CbBIufwLht6YA16q615jc4jeNFCi4XuhvTHgeXqoIRQ/edit?usp=sharing