I know I need help with marketing, but I’ve heard so many mixed stories—some authors say they wasted money, others say hiring a marketer changed everything. I don’t even know where to begin. What should I ask before hiring someone? Are there red flags or must-haves I should know about? I want to do this smartly, but I don’t know what questions to ask to avoid making a costly mistake.
Sage-Beacon Answered question
Before hiring a book marketer, ask these five critical questions:
- What experience do you have with books in my genre?
– Look for case studies or specific outcomes, not just general marketing work. Ask for references from authors they’ve supported. - What services do you offer—and which are most effective?
– Avoid vague promises like “increased visibility.” Ask how they achieve results: ads, newsletters, social campaigns, etc. - Do you require a long-term contract?
– Be cautious with agencies that require large upfront retainers. Start with a short-term trial when possible. If not possible, ask to test the concept for a small fee before committing to a long-term relationship. - How will success be measured?
– Clear KPIs (key performance indicators) might include email signups, ad ROI, reviews generated, or rank improvement with an indication of what is reasonable to expect. - Will I retain access to all accounts and data?
– You should always have control over your Amazon ads, email lists, and analytics. Be very cautious if providers are telling you only they can make changes or own data.
Professional Tip:
The best marketers are transparent, data-informed, and willing to collaborate. Avoid anyone who “guarantees” bestseller status.
Sage-Beacon Answered question