Brian Marggraf

Many of my blog followers responded positively to that post. I’d say the Guerrilla marketing approach is working just fine for me. After a marketing session in Manhattan or online, and usually within a few hours or days, there’s a spike: the book sells faster, more blog and Twitter followers, Facebook likes go up, etc. I Don’t have exact numbers, but the public interest increases exponentially for a time, then drops back down to normal levels. Out of all the tactics I employ, by far the most effective one is engaging people and talking to them about my book. Whether it’s on the subway, in a coffee shop, or in Central Park, if someone is reading a book or using a kindle, iPad, or any other e-reader, they’ll be approached. I say hello, offer a promo item (a business card or a small zip-lock baggie with book info inside), and give them a quick pitch. This kind of marketing can be challenging and time-consuming, but it’s also very useful in expanding your following.

The BEA was amazing. So many people, and most of them potential readers. I really worked the crowds hard on the two days I was there. The first, Thursday, was mostly industry folks, publishers, agents and the like. That was the more challenging day. I was often ignored by attendees, some turned away, some scoffed, but I kept at it. Security ran me off twice, so it’s a good thing I brought a change of clothes. The second day was much better. That was a Saturday. There were thousands of readers, and most of them were open to learning about my book. I made a lot of connections and gave out about two thousand promotional items. Overall, handing out cards, wearing my Indie Hero shirt, posting stickers in the vicinity of the convention center and in the bathrooms, and talking to people, it was a very successful event for me.