Summary:
Have you ever noticed that it seems like these days everyone is a “#1 bestselling author?” If so, you’ve probably also wondered how this can be true. If it seems suspicious to you, you’re right!
Truth is, you can gain “bestseller status” without actually selling books. This is true because there are numerous ways to “game the system” and virtually every bestseller list is “gamable.” The unfortunate outcome is that bestseller status does not hold the gravitas it once did.
The good news is bestseller status is only one component of a successful book, and you don’t need to put energy and money into manufacturing phony bestseller status to knock it out of the park…
In episode #135 of The Author’s Corner, Robin reveals the truth behind the bestseller status that so many authors claim. She also discusses some of the ways people game the system, and shares some ideas about what author success looks like.
Key takeaways:
- Why everyone seems to be a bestseller these days
- How Amazon changed the bestseller game
- The average number of books you have to sell to make a bestseller list
- Why bestseller status doesn’t mean as much anymore
- Strategies that some people use to game the system
- How to determine if bestseller status is really important for you
- And more!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
About Robin Colucci:
Robin Colucci is the principal founder of World Changing Books. With over 3 decades of experience in journalism and the publishing industry, she is a multi-hyphenated professional—she’s a guide, mentor, and strategist for thought leaders ready to see their expertise and ideas become a lasting legacy that changes the world.
Under Robin’s expert guidance, World Changing Books has helped authors—from CEOs, astronauts, and Nobel laureates to emerging voices—secure over $6.3 million in advances in a mere 4 years. These authors have successfully landed deals with “Big 5” publishers, won prestigious awards, and earned bestseller statuses everywhere from Amazon to The New York Times.
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