If you’ve been pouring your heart (and money) into your book but the sales just aren’t showing up, you might be falling into a trap that’s become way too common: over-relying on online marketing and ignoring the power of in-person connections.
In today’s crowded publishing world, in-person marketing isn’t a “nice extra” — it’s a critical piece of the puzzle.
Ignoring it can quietly kill your book sales before they even get a chance to take off.
Here are four deadly mistakes that every author and publisher needs to watch out for:
1. Thinking Online-Only Launches Are Enough
It’s easy to fall into the mindset that a few Facebook ads, some Instagram posts, and maybe a pre-order link will launch your book into bestseller territory.
But here’s the truth: algorithms aren’t relationships. And relationships are what sell books over the long haul.
Why In-Person Matters:
Face-to-face moments create emotional connections that online ads can’t replicate. Meeting readers at events, doing signings, and showing up as a real person can turn casual interest into real loyalty.
How to Fix It:
Plan a few simple in-person events around your launch — even small gatherings count. Think local bookstores, coffee shops, libraries, or community centers.
2. Forgetting That Readers Buy Authors, Not Just Books
Readers don’t just buy a title — they buy into the person behind it. If they connect with your story, your energy, or your mission, they’re more likely to support not just this book, but every book you write.
Why In-Person Matters:
When readers meet you — hear your voice, your passion, your realness — they feel part of your journey. That bond sticks far longer than a social media scroll.
How to Fix It:
Use in-person events to tell your story. Share why you wrote the book, what drives you, what you hope readers take away from it. Authenticity sells.
3. Assuming Online Reviews Will Magically Multiply
Yes, online reviews are important. But waiting passively for readers to post them — without building real relationships first — often leads to disappointment. Most readers need a little nudge (and a real reason to care).
Why In-Person Matters:
At live events, you can ask readers personally to leave a review. When you build that human connection first, readers are more willing — even excited — to champion your book publicly.
How to Fix It:
At every event, make a friendly ask: “If you enjoyed the book, it would mean the world if you left a quick review online!” Make it easy by handing out a small card with direct links or QR codes.
4. Treating Marketing Like a One-Time Push
Many authors think the heavy lifting is done after launch week. Not true. Book sales are a marathon, not a sprint. And the authors who stay visible are the ones who keep selling.
Why In-Person Matters:
Consistent, local, real-world appearances keep you (and your book) alive in people’s minds. When your community sees you showing up — at events, fairs, libraries, or even book clubs — they start to see you as their author.
How to Fix It:
Create an ongoing calendar of appearances. Even one small event per month can keep the momentum alive and your sales steady.
Final Word: Real Readers. Real Results.
Online marketing is a must — but it can’t carry your book alone.
In-person marketing is what turns a book into a movement and readers into fans; opening the door to launch a one-time writer into a lifetime author.
Don’t just market online.
Show up. Be seen. Connect.
Your future readers are waiting — and they want to meet you in the real world.