If you’re an author, you probably dream of finding new readers — but the idea of “selling” might feel intimidating or exhausting. Here’s the truth: You don’t need a giant stage, a fancy booth, or a massive ad budget to grow your book sales. Sometimes, the best opportunities come when you’re doing something completely ordinary — like standing in line.
Yes, even a simple moment at the grocery store, coffee shop, post office, or DMV can turn into a meaningful connection — and even a sale.
The best part? You don’t have to push, pitch, or pressure. You just have to show up, be open, and stay ready. Here’s how to turn everyday lines into surprising wins:
1. Be Open and Approachable
When you’re standing in line, it’s tempting to scroll through your phone and tune out the world — but resist that urge. Instead, look around, smile, and be open to small talk.
Simple ways to start a conversation:
- Compliment someone genuinely (“That’s such a cool bag!”)
- Make an observation (“This is the slowest coffee line in town — but totally worth it!”)
- Share a small laugh or eye roll about the wait (people bond over shared experiences).
Why it matters:
People naturally respond to friendliness. Real marketing starts with real connection. When you’re approachable, you invite curiosity — and curiosity is the first step toward building interest in you and your book.
2. Share Your Author Identity Casually
Once conversation starts, you have a golden opportunity to mention you’re an author — but it should always feel natural, not forced.
How to weave it in smoothly:
- “I’m squeezing in errands before getting back to writing my next book.”
- “I just dropped off some copies of my novel at a local bookstore.”
- “Actually, I write mystery novels — everyday places like this give me the best story ideas!”
Pro Tip:
Practice a short, easy description of your book — a single, intriguing sentence that sparks curiosity without sounding like a sales pitch.
Example:
“It’s about a small town where everyone’s secrets start surfacing after a mysterious disappearance.”
3. Always Have a Way to Help Them Find Your Book
If someone shows even a little interest, be ready to make it super easy for them to check out your book later.
Your everyday author toolkit:
- Business cards featuring your book cover, tagline, and a link or QR code.
- Bookmarks with a memorable quote and your website.
- Digital links saved on your phone — even your lock screen can display a QR code!
Why it matters:
People have the best intentions — but life moves fast. By handing them something tangible or making it easy to scan a link on the spot, you dramatically increase the odds they’ll actually follow through.
Bonus Tip:
Add a small incentive on your card — like “Visit my site for a free bonus chapter!” — to create even more motivation to check you out later.
4. Keep It Light and Non-Salesy
Not every interaction needs to lead directly to a sale — and that’s okay. Your goal is to plant seeds, not pressure people.
Mindset shift:
- You’re not begging someone to buy your book.
- You’re sharing your passion and giving them a chance to be part of your story.
- You’re connecting, not convincing.
Remember:
Even if someone doesn’t buy today, they might recommend you to someone else, look you up later, or remember you when they’re looking for their next great read. No interaction is wasted when it’s genuine.
5. Celebrate Every Connection
Whether you sell a book immediately or just brighten someone’s day, every positive interaction counts. Keep track of the small wins — they build momentum over time.
Ways to celebrate:
- Share a quick post about a fun connection you made. (“Met a future reader in the coffee shop line today!”)
- Keep a “connection journal” to remember where your readers are coming from.
- Thank people for their interest — even if they don’t buy right away.
Why it matters:
Marketing can sometimes feel slow — but every little ripple matters. When you stay grateful and excited, you stay motivated — and that energy draws people toward you.
Final Thought:
Standing in line might feel like a waste of time — but for a proud, prepared author, it’s a world of possibility. You don’t need to be loud or aggressive. You just need to be open, be ready, and be proud of the story you’ve created.
Smile. Start a conversation. Share your passion. Stay ready. You never know whose day — and whose bookshelf — you’ll end up on.