For book/ebook authors, publishers, & self-publishers

Book Postcards

What do you put on them? I figured I'd put my book cover on the front and the synopsis and ordering info on the back. It'd be used more as a promo piece that as a mailing.

I've seen others just use the cover on the front, their web address and the back side for the regular postcard stuff. What do you think works best?

I'm attaching the cover image to give you an idea.

Attachments:

jen-zen_OSD_cover2_sm.jpg, 23 KB

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Permalink Reply by Val D. Greenwood on September 28, 2007 at 1:34pm

On mine, I have my book cover on one side of the card, with the other side set up as a postcard (line down the middle). At the bottom of this side I have my e-mail address and the URL for my website. My return address is in the upper right corner. I use these as thank you notes--at every opportunity. I also put a copy of it--along with my brochure, my bookmark, and my business card--in every book I sell on my web site. (I offer this Just as an idea.) Your idea of a synopsis also sounds good. (newviewoldtestament.com)

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Permalink Reply by Julie Ann Shapiro on September 28, 2007 at 3:00pm

Val,
Thanks for your feedback. I hadn't thought of including my address or email address. I figured the web address might be enough. Good points.

Julie

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Permalink Reply by Marion James on September 30, 2007 at 4:37am

I agree with the idea of making it look like a postcard, with a line down the back. YOU MUST leave space for someone to write a message and put an address. THAT WAY THEY SEND YOUR INFO ON TO SOMEONE ELSE. Ok, it is less efficient viral marketing than using the internet where someone can forward your info to everyone in their address book in one foul swoop, but both the initial recipient(s) of the card, and the final recipient(s) get to read all about you.

You don't get that pass-it-on effect with just a flier.

Bookmarks have the advantage that they are a more permanent reminder. If someone likes it, they will use it for a time until it gets tatty.

Other ideas for people to use your promo material and not just bin it:
I like to have a credit card sized year calendar in my purse to refer to .... you could do one with your book(s) on one side and a calendar on the reverse.
Magnets are great for holding up notes. I could always do with another SMALL fridge magnet. If it advertised your book I would see it every time I go to get a snack!