![E-Book: how to post engaging content [content idea list]](http://onlineyougrow.com/cdn/shop/articles/cov-marketing-plan-2_3058986c-3f4f-4ee7-86c1-1c45a54bbbe3.png?v=1715865572&width=1100)
Facebook and Instagram are not just for likes and fun—they're powerful tools that successful e-book authors use strategically to attract readers.
We know you're busy writing and the thought of managing social media might feel like another burden.
But here's the deal: you don't need to be a marketing expert or spend a fortune to make it work. Just a few minutes a day can bring a couple of new readers to your e-book.
To help you out, we have built a free list of content ideas - also, for a full action plan, please check our strategy pack for e-book authors.
Get the content idea list made for e-book authors
A lot of e-books manage to post engaging content on social media. Here is a free tool to to get you started.
Content that always work well for an e-book
We have meticulously analyzed numerous e-book marketing strategies to create our E-Book Marketing Strategy Pack - here are the tactics that consistently drive results.
| Content Type | Why It Works to Boost Your E-Book Sales |
|---|---|
| Engaging Cover Designs | Eye-catching covers can grab potential readers' attention, making them more likely to explore and purchase your e-book. |
| Author Behind-the-Scenes Videos | Sharing the writing process, inspirations, and personal stories builds a connection with your audience and fosters trust. |
| Reader Testimonials | Positive reviews and testimonials from readers provide social proof, encouraging others to buy your e-book. |
| Limited-Time Discounts | Offering special promotions and discounts can attract new readers looking for a good deal. |
| User-Generated Content | Sharing content created by readers (reviews, fan art) engages the community and adds authenticity to your brand. |
| Collaborations with Influencers | Partnering with book bloggers or influencers can introduce your e-book to a broader, targeted audience. |
| Upcoming Release Announcements | Promoting upcoming e-book releases can build anticipation and attract readers eager for new content. |
| Seasonal and Holiday Promotions | Highlighting seasonal themes or holiday specials can attract readers looking for timely and relevant content. |
| Interactive Content | Polls, quizzes, and Q&A sessions engage followers and create a sense of community, encouraging them to purchase your e-book. |
| Exclusive Excerpts | Sharing sneak peeks or exclusive chapters can intrigue potential readers and motivate them to buy the full e-book. |
| Daily Writing Updates | Regularly updating followers with your writing progress keeps your e-book top-of-mind and builds anticipation. |
| Author Spotlights | Featuring stories about your journey as an author creates a personal connection and humanizes your brand. |
| Writing Tips | Sharing writing tips and tricks can engage aspiring authors and readers who are interested in the craft of writing. |
| Sustainability Initiatives | Highlighting eco-friendly practices or charitable contributions appeals to socially conscious readers. |
| Reader Spotlights | Featuring loyal readers creates a sense of community and makes others want to be part of that group. |
| Contests and Giveaways | Running contests and giveaways can increase engagement and attract new followers, many of whom may convert into readers. |
Some e-books make 5x more profit than you!
We have studied the strategies of the best e-books in the world. Replicate them now!
How can e-book authors make great content on social media?
What to Prioritize
You probably know it already, but high-quality visuals are essential for your e-book.
Readers judge a book by its cover. Make sure the cover design is eye-catching, the layout is clean, and the images are high-resolution.
Also, update your content regularly to keep your audience engaged. It doesn’t have to be daily, but find a schedule that works for you and stick to it. We have prepared a free content calendar for you.
Of course, respond to reader comments and messages quickly. People appreciate interaction and it makes them feel valued. Don’t just be another “bland” author.
Show the real side of your writing process. Behind-the-scenes photos, author stories, and reader shoutouts can create a personal connection with your audience.
If you want to keep your readers excited, highlight any special offers, new releases, or exclusive content. Make sure your followers know what’s new and exciting.
Finally, share positive reviews and testimonials. Social proof is powerful and can help attract new readers.
What Doesn’t Matter as Much
Overly polished content does not really matter. Your posts don’t need to be perfect. Authenticity can be more engaging than highly produced content.
Also, don’t feel pressured to jump on every social media trend. Focus on what fits your e-book’s “image” and what your audience likes.
If you have a low budget to market your e-book, don’t immediately go for paid Ads. Organic reach can still be effective with good content and engagement. You will find tons of tactics and strategies in our strategy pack for e-book authors.
How to Do It Fast and Efficient
First, spend a few hours once a week creating visuals, drafting posts, and planning content. This way, you’re not scrambling daily.
Use Scheduling Tools - tools like Buffer or Hootsuite can schedule posts in advance, saving you time.
Repurpose and use the same content across different platforms. A cover reveal on Instagram can be a post on Facebook or a tweet on Twitter.
Encourage readers to share their own photos and tag your e-book. This is what we call “User-Generated Content”. Reposting these can save you time and build community.
Use apps like Canva for quick and easy graphic design, or Lightroom for photo editing. These tools can make your content look professional with minimal effort.
Low-budget content ideas for e-books on social media
Our team has curated this comprehensive list of highly specific, budget-friendly content ideas tailored for e-book authors, complete with practical tips to keep costs down and effectively leverage social media.
You might want to incorporate some of these ideas in the marketing plan for your e-book.
| Content Type | Tips to Make It More Affordable |
|---|---|
| Smartphone Book Covers | Use natural light by positioning your book near windows during daytime. Enhance photos with free apps like Snapseed or VSCO. |
| Reader Testimonials | Ask satisfied readers to leave a quick video testimonial on their phone. Offer a free chapter or exclusive content as a thank-you. |
| User-Generated Content | Encourage readers to share their favorite quotes or photos of your e-book by offering a monthly raffle for those who tag your book on Instagram. |
| DIY Writing Tips Videos | Film short, simple writing tips or behind-the-scenes looks at your writing process using a smartphone and a basic tripod. Use free editing software like iMovie or OpenShot. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Stories | Use Instagram Stories or Facebook Live to give a real-time look at your writing day or introduce your characters during slow hours. |
| Daily Writing Prompts | Design simple, eye-catching graphics for daily writing prompts using free tools like Canva. Include a brief description and an inspiring image. |
| Author Spotlights | Feature fellow authors with a casual photo and fun facts about them. Use your smartphone and a natural setting in your writing space. |
| Simple Polls and Questions | Engage followers with free Instagram or Facebook polls about their favorite genres or suggestions for future books. |
| Local Book Club Promotions | Collaborate with local book clubs by offering a small discount or exclusive content. Cross-promote each other's content to reach a wider audience. |
| Community Involvement Posts | Post photos and short stories about your participation in local literary events or partnerships with community organizations. |
| Reader Spotlights | Highlight loyal readers with their favorite quotes or reviews. Take a quick photo and share a short story about their experience with your e-book. |
| Homemade Book Photos | Create attractive settings using inexpensive items like tablecloths, props, and decorations from dollar stores. |
| Sustainability Tips | Share eco-friendly practices such as using digital formats or recycled paper. Create simple infographics with free tools like Canva. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Writing | Record short clips of your writing process, such as brainstorming or editing. Compile them into a quick video using free tools. |
| Simple Contests and Giveaways | Run social media contests where participants like, share, or tag friends to win a free e-book. Use prizes that are cost-effective like a free chapter or exclusive content. |
| Seasonal Writing Posts | Highlight seasonal themes or settings in your writing using natural light and your smartphone camera. Share the story behind the theme to add interest. |
Copy the tactics of the best e-books in the world!
There are e-books that make way more money than you do. We have studied their tactics. Get them now!
Exceptionally creative and innovative content ideas specifically for e-books
Investing in high-quality social media content for your e-book can be a game-changer. Many authors overlook this, giving you a golden opportunity to stand out, capture readers' attention, and build a dedicated following.
| Content Type | Why It Could Attract a LOT of Readers |
|---|---|
| Live Author Q&A Sessions | Hosting live Q&A sessions where you interact with readers and discuss your e-book can create a sense of community and attract a global audience. |
| Interactive 360° Book Previews | Offering virtual 360° previews of your e-book, including behind-the-scenes looks at your writing process, can provide a unique experience and entice people to purchase. |
| Limited Edition Content | Creating buzz with limited edition or exclusive chapters available for a short time can generate excitement and urgency, attracting new and repeat readers. |
| Exclusive Book Club Access | Offering an exclusive book club experience where readers can discuss the e-book with you can create a memorable experience and word-of-mouth promotion. |
| AR Book Integration | Implementing augmented reality (AR) technology in your e-book where readers can see 3D representations of scenes or characters can enhance the reading experience and attract tech-savvy readers. |
| Themed Reading Events | Hosting themed reading events, such as a mystery night or a historical fiction evening, can provide a unique and immersive experience, attracting groups and special occasions. |
| Writing Challenge Contests | Organizing writing challenge contests (e.g., writing a short story in under an hour) can create viral moments, attracting aspiring writers and readers. |
| Collaborative Writing Projects | Partnering with other authors to create collaborative writing projects can introduce your e-book to new audiences and create a buzz in the literary community. |
| Story-Driven Social Media Posts | Sharing in-depth stories about the inspiration behind your e-book, the research process, or your personal writing journey can create an emotional connection with readers. |
| Interactive Plot Decisions | Allowing readers to vote on plot decisions via social media polls can make them feel involved and eager to read the final product they helped shape. |
| Eco-Friendly Publishing Initiatives | Launching and promoting eco-friendly publishing initiatives, such as using sustainable materials or donating a portion of sales to environmental causes, can attract environmentally conscious readers and media attention. |
| Book Signing Tours | Organizing virtual or physical book signing tours in different locations or at local events can expand your reach and attract new readers who may purchase your e-book later. |
| Subscription-Based Content | Offering a subscription service where readers receive monthly exclusive content, such as short stories or behind-the-scenes looks, can create a loyal reader base. |
| Immersive Writing Workshops | Hosting workshops where readers can learn advanced writing techniques from you can attract aspiring writers and create a sense of exclusivity. |
| Flash Mob Reading Events | Organizing flash mob reading events in unexpected locations can create viral content and attract adventurous readers looking for unique experiences. |
Content that never works well for e-books on social media
Don't waste your time and resources on these strategies. We've seen many e-book authors make these mistakes, and they won't help you stand out from the crowd or attract new readers to your e-book.
| Content Type | Why It Never Works for E-books | Do This Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Generic Stock Photos | They lack authenticity and can make your e-book appear unoriginal or untrustworthy. | Use real images or custom illustrations that reflect the unique content and tone of your e-book to create a genuine connection with your audience. |
| Overly Promotional Posts | Constantly pushing promotions can feel spammy and turn off potential readers. | Mix in engaging content like behind-the-scenes stories, reader testimonials, and interactive posts to keep your audience interested. |
| Unrelated Content | Posting content that has nothing to do with your e-book confuses followers and dilutes your brand. | Keep your content focused on your e-book, writing process, related topics, and events to maintain relevance and interest. |
| Low-Quality Videos | Poorly shot or edited videos can reflect badly on your e-book's quality and professionalism. | Invest in basic video equipment or hire a local videographer to produce high-quality videos that showcase your e-book positively. |
| Political or Controversial Posts | These can alienate parts of your audience and lead to negative backlash. | Stick to neutral, positive content that focuses on your e-book, writing journey, and unique offerings. |
| Too Many Hashtags | Overusing hashtags can look desperate and reduce engagement by making posts look cluttered. | Use a few relevant, targeted hashtags to increase visibility without overwhelming your audience. |
| Automated Replies and Messages | They can come off as impersonal and frustrate readers looking for genuine interaction. | Respond personally to comments and messages to show that you care about your readers and value their feedback. |
| Overly Staged Photos | Photos that look too perfect can seem inauthentic and less relatable. | Use natural lighting and casual settings to make your photos feel more genuine and inviting. |
| Constant Self-Promotion | Only talking about your e-book can bore followers and reduce engagement. | Share user-generated content, collaborate with other authors, and highlight community involvement to diversify your content. |
| Negative or Defensive Responses | Responding poorly to criticism can damage your reputation and discourage potential readers. | Address negative feedback calmly and constructively, showing that you are willing to improve and value reader input. |
| Ignoring Social Media Trends | Being out of touch with current trends can make your e-book seem outdated and unappealing. | Stay updated with social media trends and incorporate them creatively into your content strategy to keep your audience engaged and excited. |
| Excessive Posting | Posting too frequently can overwhelm your followers and lead to unfollows. | Maintain a consistent but moderate posting schedule, ensuring each post adds value and keeps your audience looking forward to your updates. |
| Complex or Confusing Promotions | Promotions that are hard to understand can frustrate readers and deter participation. | Offer simple, clear, and straightforward promotions that are easy for readers to grasp and engage with. |
| Ignoring Comments and Messages | Not engaging with your audience can make them feel undervalued and reduce their loyalty. | Regularly respond to comments and messages to build a strong, interactive community around your e-book. |
Make your e-book more profitable
We have studied the strategies of the best e-books in the world. All their tactics are explained in our pack!
Why social media can be a big pay-off for your e-book
We understand that as an e-book author, you might feel hesitant about diving into social media marketing.
The world of social media can seem foreign and filled with confusing jargon. You might believe that it's more suited for big publishing houses rather than independent authors like you.
The day-to-day demands of writing, editing, and promoting your e-book are already overwhelming, leaving little time for additional tasks like social media.
It's common to think that social media marketing is an expensive endeavor, one that your tight budget can't support. Plus, the sheer number of social media platforms can lead to indecision and skepticism, especially if previous efforts haven't yielded the results you hoped for.
That's why we've created a "marketing pack" specifically tailored for e-book authors like you.
Our pack addresses all the issues you might face, offering simple, cost-effective strategies that don't require a marketing expert or a big budget for your e-book. These documents are straightforward and easy to understand, cutting through the jargon and focusing on what really works for independent authors on social media.
We provide clear, actionable steps for creating engaging posts, building a loyal following, and boosting your e-book's visibility online.
With our marketing pack, you can invest in your e-book's success without feeling overwhelmed or uncertain.
Your e-book could make more money!
Most e-book authors don't know how to grow their business. Let us teach you the right strategies.
