Strategies for Authors on Leveraging BookTok: Boost Your Book's Visibility on TikTok
TikTok, a platform renowned for dance challenges, comedy skits, and other short-video content, has spawned a new subculture: BookTok. This rapidly growing community within TikTok caters specifically to book enthusiasts and has proven to be an effective platform for authors to promote their work and increase book sales.
At its core, BookTok functions as a space for users to share book recommendations, reviews, and literary discussions, often in the form of short, engaging videos. Content creators hold up books while discussing their plot, sharing opinions, or participating in book-related challenges, all backed by creative editing techniques, music, and visuals. The TikTok algorithm favors content that users enjoy, connecting users with similar interests, including authors and readers. According to TikTok, the #BookTok hashtag boasts over 77 billion views globally and connects a vibrant, international community of book lovers.
Authors have experienced remarkable success on BookTok, with some gaining thousands of followers and increased book sales in a short period. For instance, indie authors Jayne Rylon and Lila Dubois amassed 10,000 followers in just four months and now focus their promotions entirely on TikTok. A single video with 2,000 views boosted Jayne's book sales by five times. Key to success on BookTok lies in consistency; regularly creating and sharing content with the community is essential for growth and visibility.
In response to the platform's impact on the book industry, TikTok is considering delving into the publishing world. Parent company ByteDance has filed a trademark application for a new book-publishing entity called 8th Note Press. While TikTok is unlikely to distribute books directly, it may serve as a conduit to drive users towards a potential book app. Some authors have already received publication offers and contracts, showing promise for those seeking traditional publishing deals.
Newcomers to the BookTok scene may find it challenging to navigate the platform and establish their presence. Here's a breakdown on how to create a BookTok account and grow your audience:
- Download the TikTok app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, then sign up using your phone number, email, or other social media accounts.
- Set up your profile by uploading a profile picture, video profile picture, relevant name (e.g., "author"), username (e.g., your genre or "author"), pronouns, bio (a short description of who you are), and any organizations you support. Link your Instagram or YouTube accounts for content repurposing.
- Create your first video by following the given guide to create TikTok videos, and consider introducing yourself in the first video to start experimenting with the platform's tools.
Once you've created your account and regularly posted content, you'll be well on your way to success in the BookTok community. Aim for 1,000 followers to be able to post links to external websites, and embrace the platform's creative freedom. With TikTok's unique features, engaging video potential, and vibrant community, authors can seize the opportunity to reach a broader audience and boost their book sales.
Engaging with fashion and beauty trends is not the only way to gain traction on TikTok. The book-loving community within the platform, known as BookTok, caters specifically to readers and authors, offering a space for sharing book recommendations, reviews, and literary discussions using short, engrossing videos.
With an increase in book sales through successful promotion on BookTok, aspiring authors may now find the platform as valuable as a fashion-and-beauty or lifestyle influencer for marketing their books.
