I am amazed by the number of people who came out to cheer me on or buy my book at my most recent book signing for my book about Transylvania.I was even more pleased to note that many people knew about Transylvania — and not about vampires, who were not from Transylvania. A few people were originally from Brasov, and it was a delight to greet them. I can say "Buna Ziua" with a more correct pronunciation thanks to a local Romanian gentleman who not only got a good laugh at my rather valiant first attempt at speaking it, but took me under his wing so that I might be able to speak Romanian — at some point in time.
Part of a successful book signing comes from experiences such as these, and also a willingness to learn more about Transylvania. It's not as if I don't know anything (I know a lot about the Saxons), but rather, I continue to share and learn from others.
Because this is a niche market, most people who did buy a book were either history buffs or knew of Transylvania, or myself as an author. Many didn't know much about me, but they loved the concept of my book. A few wondered about publishing in general. With all this experience, there are a few points I'd like to share.
1) Have fun: I know you've probably heard this already, but really have fun. There were possibly 100 people who approached the author table, but only about 20 percent bought a book this time, but next time they see me, and know I'm a local author it will make a difference.2) Say Hello, and how are you?: Most people who came to look at my book came because I engaged them. I said hello and asked them how they were doing. I'm not generally a person who does this, but it works.
3) Don't get discouraged: I was happy with what I sold, so I can't complain. I might wish for more books sold, but there is always next time. A number of people were very interested, but they weren't out looking for a book at that moment. When they see me next time, they might get it. That's a powerful thought.4) Remember your smile: Smiling goes a long way. I heard more than a few people comment I was smiling. I asked the manager who said, it does make a difference to potential buyers that you are smiling at them, so why not?
5) Know and Learn: Yes, I know things about Transylvania. I still can learn a lot more things. So here's to my new reader! They are already asking for more from my writing. Because of my readers, In Search of The Lost Ones
will be a success.
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