Can I Sell My Books to Waterstones? A Guide for Self-Published Authors

Introduction

Getting your book onto the shelves of a well-known bookstore like Waterstones is a significant achievement for any author. This goal can seem daunting for self-published authors, but it is possible with the right approach. This guide explores leveraging Waterstones self-publishing opportunities to sell your books through this prestigious retailer.

Understanding Waterstones and Self-Publishing

Waterstones is one of the UK’s largest book retailers, known for its extensive selection and support of diverse authors. For self-published authors, getting your book into Waterstones requires understanding their processes and meeting their standards.

Steps to Sell Your Books to Waterstones

1. Ensure Your Book Meets Professional Standards

High-Quality Content:

• Editing: Invest in professional editing to ensure your book is polished and free of errors.
• Proofreading: Carefully proofread your manuscript to catch any remaining mistakes.

Professional Formatting:

• Interior Layout: Ensure your book’s interior is professionally formatted. This includes proper margins, spacing, and consistent fonts.
• Cover Design: A high-quality, professionally designed cover is essential. It should be visually appealing and adhere to industry standards.

2. Obtain an ISBN and Barcode

ISBN (International Standard Book Number):

• Purchase an ISBN: Ensure your book has a unique ISBN, which is crucial for retail distribution.

Barcode:

• Generate a Barcode: Your ISBN should be converted into a barcode to be scannable at retail stores.

3. Print Your Book

Print Quality:

• Use Professional Printers: Opt for high-quality printing to meet bookstore standards. Consider print-on-demand services or offset printing for larger quantities.

4. Set Up Distribution Channels

Distribution Companies:

• Use Reputable Distributors: Partner with reputable book distributors like IngramSpark or Gardners, which Waterstones recognize. These distributors can handle the logistics of getting your book into stores.

5. Prepare a Marketing and Sales Plan

Sales and Marketing Strategy:

• Create a Press Kit: Include a professional author bio, book synopsis, cover image, and sample reviews.
• Promotional Plan: Develop a detailed promotional plan outlining how you will market your book. This could include social media campaigns, book signings, and press releases.

Approaching Waterstones

1. Contact Waterstones Directly

Initial Contact:

• Submit Your Book for Consideration: Waterstones accepts submissions from self-published authors. Visit the Waterstones website and follow their guidelines for submissions.

Provide Necessary Information:

• Book Details: Include details about your book, such as genre, target audience, and unique selling points.
• Marketing Plan: Highlight your marketing efforts and any promotional plans.

2. Utilize Distribution Channels

Leverage Distributors:

• Distributor Recommendations: If using a recognized distributor, they can recommend your book to Waterstones. This can increase your chances of being stocked.

3. Participate in Events and Promotions

Author Events:

• Book Signings and Readings: Organize book signings and readings at Waterstones locations. This increases visibility and can drive sales.

Promotions:

• Special Promotions: Engage in special promotions or offers through Waterstones to boost your book’s profile.

Maintaining Your Presence in Waterstones

1. Continuous Marketing

Ongoing Promotion:

• Keep Promoting: Continue marketing your book even after it’s stocked in Waterstones. Use social media, email newsletters, and other channels to maintain interest.

2. Monitor Sales

Sales Tracking:

• Track Your Sales: Keep an eye on your book’s sales performance. Use this data to adjust your marketing strategies as needed.

3. Build Relationships

Networking:

• Build Relationships: Cultivate relationships with bookstore staff and managers. A good relationship can lead to better display placements and more opportunities for events.

Conclusion

While selling your books to Waterstones as a self-published author requires effort and strategic planning, it is achievable. By ensuring your book meets professional standards, setting up proper distribution channels, and actively marketing your book, you can increase your chances of success. Leverage Waterstones self-publishing opportunities to reach a wider audience and make your book available through one of the UK’s leading book retailers.