I’ve read stats that range from 600,000 new books per year in the US alone to 2.2 million published worldwide per year. These are fiction and non-fiction books, traditional and self-published, paper and electronic. A new book may barely get noticed.

So how does a writer who isn’t well known get noticed?

I wish I had an easy answer. Genre and topic can make a big difference. Romance is one of the best selling genres as well as non-fiction books about celebrities. Timing and luck may play a part in getting a book/writer noticed, along with the writer’s personality (extrovert or introvert), his budget, or her contacts. And then there’s attitude.

I have a bad attitude. In today’s highly competitive field, my hatred of marketing is not good. I want to write, but I don’t want to be shouting, “Buy my book!” Yet, I must do some marketing.

What I have found works for me:

Having a bookmark with me at all times.

Mine include my contact information (name, website, email), that my books are available on Amazon, and that I write romances and mysteries. I list several of my book titles (along with a short log line for each), and include a couple thumbnail cover images. My bookmarks are printed on both sides on good quality paper and in color.

1. Relatively inexpensive (Vistaprint.com, UPrinting.com)
2. Can include a lot more information than a business car
3. Stand out and have a practical use, too

Entering contests.

As long as the entry fee is reasonable and the contest has a decent reputation, I feel this is a way to introduce me and my writing to new readers. (Most contest entries are read by at least 3 judges.)

1. In the past, some contest judges have become fans of my books.
2. If the book makes it onto the short list, the book’s title and my name are publicized by the contest.
3. I can use being a finalist or winning a contest for press releases and on social media.

Speaking to book or writing groups.

Over the years I’ve contacted libraries and bookstores and let them know I will speak for free to book groups or writers’ groups. I give the contact person a list of possible topics I can speak on, ranging from how to get published or changes in the publishing industry to how I researched a particular book. Also, when I meet someone who mentions belonging to a book group, I ask what type of books are selected. I’ve often found talking with someone about her book club leads to me being invited to speak to the group.

1. Most libraries will allow me to sell my books when I’m there as a speaker.
2. I gain name recognition when the library or book store publicizes my talk.
3. Readers are interested in hearing what it’s like to be a writer or how I came up with a story idea.

Having a spouse or significant other who supports your career.

My husband is always bringing up that I am an award winning writer who has had 30 books traditionally published. He shares that my books have been sold in over 25 countries and translated into more than 18 languages. His latest endeavor is a magnetic sign on the side of his truck and my car. I don’t know if it will increase sales or help me get noticed, but it has been good for a chuckle.