Unlock the Power of Market Research: 6 Best Tips for New Authors
“Research is creating new knowledge.”- Neil Armstrong
Aspiring authors, do you want to know a little secret to elevate your book from floundering in obscurity?
It’s a secret hidden in plain sight, though few new authors harness its power. I’m talking about market research.
Yes, good old-fashioned research. Not exactly exciting, is it? It’s easy to think of research as the drudgery you’re forced to endure before getting to the “fun stuff” of actual writing.
But that’s where many new authors go wrong. Savvy writers know research is ANYTHING but drudgery. It’s one of the most powerful, pivotal success factors for crafting books that captivate audiences and launching a writing career.
Intrigued? In this third article in our series on the power trio (marketing, research, and creativity), we explore the immense power of comprehensive market research, audience analysis, keyword optimization, and more. You’ll discover insider techniques even bestselling authors wish they’d known from the start.
Embarking on writing your first book is an exciting journey, but one requiring extensive preparation if you hope to resonate with readers. This is where research comes in. While often overlooked, high-quality research holds immense power for crafting stories and producing good non-fiction. Research provides invaluable insights. Immersing yourself in comprehensive research enables creating stories finely tuned to your target readership. It enhances the entire book, from concept to marketing and publication.
If you dedicate the time, market research holds the keys to publication success.
Let’s get started harnessing its power!
1. Understand Your Target Audience
The foundation of impactful writing is intimately knowing your intended reader. Key demographics like age, location, gender, income level, education, interests, and passions reveal what content will resonate.
For example, romance author Jasmine Rose targets women aged 30-55 looking for inspirational stories with characters overcoming life’s obstacles. This knowledge shaped her book’s empowered yet relatable protagonist.
Popular genres and topics among your audience also hold clues. Analyze reviews and engagement for bestsellers in your category on sites like Goodreads. Listen to book podcasts and join your genre’s online groups. Market research spotlights what prospective readers crave so you can deliver it.
2. Research the Competition
Studying successful books and authors in your genre provides invaluable insight into the themes, pacing, tropes, and formulas that enthrall readers.
Deconstruct what hooks readers in popular book openings and keeps them rapidly turning pages. Take note of common pitfalls and flaws readers complain about. Observe how authors establish unique voices. This analysis reveals proven frameworks as well as opportunities to improve upon what’s been done and fill unmet needs.
For instance, after an in-depth competitive analysis, novelist Henry Wu crafted a detective thriller combining the edgy protagonists readers loved with a more innovative, puzzle-centric mystery structure many requested.
3. Research Trends & Demand
The book world is fast paced. Grounding your concept in current trends and consumer demand is key.
Keyword research using tools like Google’s Keyword Planner gives invaluable data on search volume and demand for topics. Study what’s trending in your genre on social media and at industry events. Aim to ride the wave of reader interest, not fight against it. SemRush also has a paid keyword planner with a free trial.
For example, Amanda Russell’s research revealed surging interest in complex fantasy worlds inspired by Dungeons and Dragons. Her book melded this popular trend with her unique voice.
4. Research Ideal Platforms
Where does your audience discover and purchase new books? Focus your efforts on those high-traffic platforms. For many genres, Amazon reigns supreme. Research optimizing your Amazon author page and Kindle categories. If your book fits BookBub’s audience, study how to pitch it for a coveted Featured Deal. Goodreads Giveaways also drive discovery.
Know the prime sites and stores your readers frequent and ensure your book is visible there.
5. Choose the Right Keywords
Optimizing your book for keywords readers are searching for propels discovery. Use free tools like Kindle Scout’s keyword research options to identify high-demand terms and questions in your niche. Use these keywords prominently in your metadata, cover copy, and targeted content.
The right keywords position your book to be found by eager readers. Research unlocks the terms that speak to your audience. For more on keywords, Increase eBook Sales—Keywords & Categories.
6. Researching on a Budget
Limited funds need not hamper research. Savvy authors stretch budgets further through:
- Free trials of paid tools like BookBrush’s market research reports.
- Informal focus groups and surveys to get reader perspectives.
- Data from bookish social media groups and reviews.
- Library databases for accessing market research papers.
With creativity, extensive insights are accessible without breaking the bank. The key is allocating time to research consistently, even in small blocks. But just don’t overdo it.
You know that saying “measure twice, cut once”? My friend Amelia took it to heart when researching her first romance novel. She surveyed over 500 readers on their favorite tropes and pored over Harlequin sales data for weeks, determined to craft the perfect storyline. In the end, Amelia nailed the concept but spent so much time researching she had no time left to actually write the book! We still chuckle over her getting so lost in the research weeds. Over-researching is real. As much as data offers invaluable guidance, at some point you have to step away and start creating. Research informs writing but should never replace it.
The Power of Market Research
For new authors, research is a vital ally, providing a roadmap to resonate with readers. Immersing yourself in audience insights, genre analysis, market trends and platforms allows creating perfectly tailored books and campaigns. Don’t underestimate research’s immense power to enhance your writing and marketing success.
We hope you’ve found the market research tips helpful and motivating. We hope they’ll equip you with the insights and tools needed to help you succeed as a new author.
A writing career is a path of continuous learning and improvement. But you don’t have to go it alone. We’re excited to continue the journey with you, providing guidance and encouragement every step of the way. Our aim is to provide insights and practical advice to help you navigate the writing world with confidence.
Don’t wait. Start today!
How can we help? To let us know, please fill out our contact form. Happy writing!
Here are your actionable steps to harness market research:
- Identify target reader demographics and interests
- Study successful books in your genre for insights
- Use free keyword research tools to identify high-demand topics
- Research optimal platforms and categories to maximize visibility
- Set a consistent research schedule to stay on top of trends
The world eagerly awaits your ideas. With market research power on your side, you can craft the book of your dreams and get it into the hands of enthusiastic readers. Now get out there and start researching.
FAQs
Should I hire an expensive market research firm?
Not usually needed for fiction authors. Free tools and informal focus groups often provide sufficient data.
When should I start doing research?
Ideally before writing your manuscript, but it’s never too late to gain reader insights.
What if research says my idea won’t sell?
Consider tweaking your concept to better align with demand, but don’t abandon your vision.
Can’t I just research as I write?
Ideally do upfront research to craft the entire manuscript aligned to your audience.
How much time should I devote to research each week?
Aim for 2-3 hours minimum weekly. Consistent research investment pays off exponentially.
