The Common Characteristics of Bestselling Books and Authors

Moving a book from mediocre sales to the bestseller lists takes a combination of things including the right positioning of the book, accurate and complete metadata, and social media presence. For nonfiction authors, online presence and platform are critical to reaching this level of success, per Trident Media Group literary agent Mark Gottlieb. History shows that there is a direct correlation between social media following and book sales. For fiction writers, getting on bestseller lists usually comes down to the writing itself. Having a solid online presence and platform are an added bonus, Gottlieb says. He sees many fiction authors find success by identifying underserved audiences or by writing to trends in the market. If you are going to try to ride the wave of popularity for a genre or subgenre, Gottlieb recommends coming in early - you don't want to be on the tail end of a trend. Better yet, he says, is to make your own waves!

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  • I have just published a book and want to have some signings and get it in the market.  It is non fiction memoir and biography.  What is the best way to do this?  

  • I am an author (The Power of I Believe, A book of motivation, encouragement and inspirational thoughts after a stroke, a Christian-themed book written to help stroke survivor & I’m Motivational Speaker for post-stroke recovery and education, training, leadership, religion.

     

  • An update:

    An Honest and Courageous Advocate for Stroke Survivors

    I was asked to set up a table to promo my book at, National Aphasia Awareness Month, 15th annual Aphasia day, Saturday, June 17, 2017, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, 355 E Erie St, Chicago, IL formerly known as Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago.

  • PRODIGAL SOLUTIONS launched In January 2017! A World Class Authorship & Motivational Speaker: My positive attitude and motivating spirit to help others overcome their struggles after a stroke to be able to speak, again. Using reflections focus on the power of God, the power of faith, and the power of the mind.     

  • Thanks Mark. That was very helpful. I will make my own waves.