Episode 295 - Unlocking the Power of Book Awards with Hannah Jacobson
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Hannah Jacobson discusses UNLOCKING THE POWER OF BOOK AWARDS, including changes within the book awards landscape, particularly the increasing acceptance of indie-published works; practical tips on selecting and submitting to the right awards; how to leverage wins for maximum benefit; the value of receiving and incorporating feedback from award entries; and how authors can share their award journey with readers to build engagement, even if it doesn't end in a win.
Hannah Jacobson is the founder of Book Award Pro, the industry-trusted platform for getting reviews and awards. The company operates the world's largest database of legitimate book accolades, serving thousands of authors globally. As a recognized authority on literary accolades and prestigious book recognition, Hannah also serves an Advisor to the Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi) and the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA).
Episode Links
https://facebook.com/bookawardpro
https://www.instagram.com/bookawardpro/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/bookawardpro/
Mentioned in the interview:
https://selfpublishingadvice.org/author-awards-contests-rated-reviewed/
Summary
In this episode of The Indy Author Podcast, Matty Dalrymple talks with Hannah Jacobson, founder of Book Award Pro, about the world of book awards and how independent authors can leverage them to enhance their book's reputation and visibility. They explore the significance of book awards, the evolving landscape, and practical strategies for authors considering this route.
Understanding the Attraction to Book Awards
Hannah shares that her fascination with book awards began at an early age, driven by a childhood curiosity about books with Gold seals. This passion translated into her current career, helping authors navigate the complexities of book accolades through Book Award Pro. The platform has become an authority, offering authors a way to strategically enter book awards that can bolster their professional credibility and discoverability.
The Importance of Book Awards for Indie Authors
The episode discusses how the landscape for indie authors has shifted significantly, especially over the past decade. More prestigious book awards, like the Pulitzer Prize, now accept self-published works, opening doors for independent authors to gain recognition alongside traditionally published counterparts. Hannah notes that the quality and professionalism of indie books have increased substantially, leading to a broader acceptance in the awards arena.
Selecting the Right Awards
Hannah advises authors to be strategic when selecting awards. Not all awards are suitable for every book, and factors like the book's genre, publication date, and specific award criteria must be considered. Authors should also align their award strategies with their personal goals, such as seeking recognition for an entire series or targeting niche categories like romantic science fiction. These choices can enhance marketability and reader reach.
Overcoming Challenges in the Awards Process
Matty and Hannah discuss the barriers that indie authors might face, such as limited awards accessibility and the challenge of excess choice. Hannah suggests maintaining a steady submission pace, perhaps targeting one award submission per month to avoid overwhelming oneself with the process. This approach also allows authors to adapt to feedback and refine their submission strategy over time.
Budgeting and Financial Considerations
Budget is a vital consideration in award submissions. Authors need to assess their spending capacity and evaluate the potential return on investment that winning an award could offer. It's crucial to consider features like bonus benefits that some awards provide, such as editorial reviews or publicity boosts, which can add value beyond the award itself.
Making the Most of Award Wins
An award win can significantly enhance an author's profile if leveraged correctly. Authors are encouraged to update their bios, book descriptions, and even cover designs to reflect their award-winning status. Hannah highlights the power of subtle but impactful changes, like updating an email signature to include award-winning credentials, which can lead to increased book sales and visibility.
Timing and Submission Strategy
Timing can be a strategic factor in award submissions. The sweet spot is often three months before publication, allowing authors to potentially launch with an award-winning title. However, even older titles can benefit from awards if matched with the right opportunities. Hannah emphasizes that always having awards open for any stage of publication is key.
Identifying Red Flags in Award Programs
Hannah offers guidance for spotting potentially problematic awards. Authors should look for clear guidelines, responsive communications, and transparency about judging criteria. Prominent awards should actively promote their winners, as visibility is a crucial aspect of the value they provide to authors.
Closing Thoughts
Hannah explains how Book Award Pro simplifies the book award process, helping authors find legitimate awards that fit their needs and handle professional entries. The episode ends with both guests encouraging authors not to be daunted by the process and instead view it as a valuable journey that can open up new pathways for reader engagement and professional growth.
This podcast episode is packed with insights into the strategic opportunities book awards present to indie authors, encompassing everything from initial submission to maximizing the benefits of a win. The conversation is an invaluable resource for authors seeking to understand and navigate the complexities of book awards.