HubPages' Author Deborah Brooks and Her First Book Signing

Saturday (tomorrow!), February 2, 2013, from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., a special event will take place in the life of one of our very own great poets and writers here at HubPages, Deborah Brooks, or as I call her, one of my sweetest and dearest friends here on HP, Debbie.

There is nothing more exciting, that I can imagine, for a writer to have a novel published. This is the case here. Debbie’s book, “Brooke,” has been published! Let us all give Debbie a great big well-deserved CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Debbie is having a book signing tomorrow at the 2013 Local Authors Expo, hosted by the Birmingham Public Library in Birmingham, Alabama! I was looking forward to attending the event in support of one my sweetest and dearest friends here at HP; however, sadly, I will be unable to attend.

I just know in my heart, Debbie’s book will be well-received.

Book signing events are oh so important. For those writers who have not yet had the joy of their first book signing event, the following tips may be helpful on how to best reach out to the public at events like the Local Authors Expo. These tips were provided by the head of Public Relations of the Local Authors Expo. All writers should make note of these excellent tips for when your very special day arrives too!

• Remember to smile when people approach your table. People like to feel welcomed.
• Make your table stand out. Instead of just having books, have a sign or something interesting that will pull people to your table. If so, add it. Even having a bowl of peppermints or candy is a nice touch. Also have handouts ready to share about your book or writing.
• Stand when you are talking to a fan or potential buyer. When you sit, it can come across as you are too casual.
• Try to stand even when someone is not at your table. When you stand, you appear more inviting.
• Try to avoid looking at your phone, a book or laptop to pass the time. Be focused on the attendees. Be engaging but not pushy. Be conversational.
• If someone asks you a question on how you got into writing, share your story. People love to know how to get started.
• Have ways to make change or make charges if you plan to sell your books.
• Have a quest book to sign so that you may get people’s names and email addresses. If you send out email updates or have a blog, ask people to sign up for them. If you are on Twitter, ask people to follow you. If you have a Facebook page, ask people to like it.
• Promote, promote, promote. Let your friends, co-workers and family know you’ll be at the expo. Advertise it on Facebook, Twitter and other social media outlets. Send people emails, reminding them of the event. Ask them to come support you and the other authors. Remind them the expos is free.
• Be sure to have plenty of business cards to give to attendees. If you will be doing a book signing later on this year, let fans know.
• Be open to attending someone’s book club and discussing your book. Let fans know.
• Find out about book clubs in your area and invite them to the expo.
• Have plenty of pens for your table. Be sure to bring paper to take notes or take someone’s information.
• Remember to have fun. People are coming out to see you!

I have no doubt in my mind that Debbie already knows all of the above and will be her usual most beautiful, friendly and professional self!

Debbie, please know your light shines ever so brightly here on HP and now is far-reaching. I am so very proud to call you friend, and may God bless all of your endeavors tomorrow. I will be thinking of you.

If you (those reading) were like me, I was surprised at a couple of these tips, i.e., standing in lieu of sitting, as I’ve always seen authors sitting. So, there you go. I am clueless.

Let’s spread the Hublove to Deborah Brooks. You are a superstar!

Enjoy your special day tomorrow.

God specializes in things fresh and firsthand. His plans for you this year may outshine those of the past . . . He's prepared to fill your days with reasons to give Him praise.

Joni Eareckson Tada