Sometimes marketing just feels…blah.

Another Facebook update. Another updated business card. Another newsletter that you wonder who’s even reading.

A great way to spice up your marketing efforts is to go the “inside-out” route. And no, I don’t mean wearing your clothes inside-out. Though, if that sounds fun to you, go for it.

I’m talking about looking at the already-existing elements of your book—or even you—that are perfect for a marketing project.

Examples:

In May 2012, author Katie Ganshert released her debut novel, Wildflowers from Winter. On her website, Katie invited readers to write their own “wildflowers from winter” stories—times when they were in a “winter” season of life, but caught glimpses of God at work even in their difficult circumstances. Tons of bloggers participated!

Or, check out what author Beth Vogt did on the three-month anniversary of her book’s release. Her novel, Wish You Were Here, includes a hero who has traveled all over the world—and sends postcards to another character. So, throughout the month of August 2012, Beth held a “Where in the World is Daniel” contest on her website each Tuesday and Thursday.

In my own story, I feature a homebuilding TV show host—sort of a female Bob Vila type. You better believe I’m already thinking of ideas for my own This Old House-like YouTube videos!

It’s just a matter of turning your book inside out, looking for those fun elements which are ready-made for some marketing mania. And then…simply have fun!

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Marketing Coordinator, Melissa Tagg

Former reporter and native Iowan Melissa Tagg writes contemporary romance heavy on the hilarious. She won the 2010 Frasier Award and finaled in the 2010 ACFW Genesis contest. In addition to her homeless ministry day job, she is My Book Therapy’s marketing/live-events planner. Visit Melissa at www.melissatagg.com where she waxes eloquent on faith, fiction and frivolity. Contact her at: marketing@mybooktherapy.com.