The authors at LinkedIn in the Writers and Authors Circle have given me good advise on how to prepare for a book signing. Books Alive! is being held at a local college and I am attending it on February 2, 2013.
My favorite so far is the first one:
"All of your thoughts are good ones.Althought I don't know how you would make "eBook formats" on CD. I have gradually added things like my handouts and audio books, and just completed narrating, editing and burning my audio book. Do you have any reviews from readers yet? I didn't have a clue how to "do" my first signing either. I would recommend making sure you have at LEAST - books, business cards, bookmarks, a sheet quoting reader comments and maybe another setting out where your book is available, your contact info, blog and/or website info. I usually have many people approach my table, not buy, but want to know where they can get it. So they take a business card, bookmark or handout. A receipt book is a good idea to have on hand, but I have only used mine twice in a year. If your city requires it, you may need to post your business license. I dealt in cash for the first 9 months - until I got an iPhone and a Square card reader devise. (there are a few other good credit/debit card readers & plans). A book stand and business card holder are good to have also, although sometimes having cards spread out on the table. Don't forget to ask if the event is supplying you a table - you might have to bring your own. Don't forget a nice table cloth. A folding chair or camping chair usually works - you may be on your feet more than in your chair so wear appropriate shoes. Oh - and don't forget $ to make change - Hopefully you will get more advise from other authors. You will do GREAT!!! Just remember that this is your first signing - you will learn as you go. Don't fret if you don't have something beyond the basics. People seem to understand."Another good one:
"Be sure to come to the book signing with all necessary promotional materials, equipment, and supplies. Most importantly, be certain that an ample supply of books will be on hand. This may require that you purchase and bring the books yourself. You also need to have a generous supply of bookmarks, brochures, promotional photos, and other free promotional materials to hand out. You should also come with marketing materials that tell people how to order your book, should you sell out of your available copies.Order promotional materials and book copies in advance. If your signing is in a bookstore, make arrangements in advance for handling payment for copies you bring to the store versus those the store will have in stock. If you are selling the books yourself, make sure you have the ability to make change."
Here's one that focuses on personal appearance:
"This is an opportunity to put a face to the thousands of words your readers and potential readers can identify with. Look professional AND approachable--treat yourself to a manicure and trip to the hair salon. Take lots of pictures of the set up, you interacting with people, and you posing with readers for your website and future PR material. A vertical banner was a great investment for me. They work the old home movie screens and are compact and easy to carry (mine was 28" x 72" which retracted into the case which was 30" x 4" diameter). I found several online companies that produce these (cheapest was in Canada). Tablecloth is a must, although some venues provide a "drape" for the tables. Get a small easel or stand to prop up your book and flowering plant to add life to the table, if you have room and can carry it!""I brought 2 cases of books (48) but I didn't put them all out. At the end of the day I didn't want to be sitting there with stacks of books looking like nothing had sold! I usually sold about a dozen at these kinds of events, but saw an increase in sales. I also bought "Signed by the author" stickers which got people to buy books for friends."
