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As an author seeking a larger audience, there are many ways to increase awareness and book sales online, even if you have a tight budget. In fact, there is so much information available regarding Internet marketing, that it can be overwhelming.

Here are three simple tips to help you sell more books online cost-effectively.

1. Look for free marketing tools.

If you are a self publisher, be sure to take advantage of the free tools available on the various publishing sites you are using. There may be free links, mentions in newsletters, space to post photos, reviews and testimonials, and more.

For example, when you list a book at www.jexbo.com, you can print free bookmarks containing information about your works. These bookmarks can then be distributed in your local community, at events and event posted on appropriate, community-notice boards or in local stores.

Be sure to look for free website posting as well. To significantly increase sales, you will need to create a website. And with the many cost-effective or free services available today, it doesn't need to be difficult or time-consuming.

'Having an online presence is a major factor in book promotion, and a new site can be created quickly by using one of the many services available for new authors and entrepreneurs,' says Melanie Rembrandt, CEO of Rembrandt Communications', LLC and author of '7 Steps to Startup PR Success.' 'By preparing a website, it is possible to provide information to consumers, build awareness and sell books around the clock.'

And as you write your online copy, focus on the unique benefits of your book and provide customer reviews for credibility. Also add information about your expertise, background and/or hobbies. The more data you can provide that sets you apart from others, the better.

2. Join online communities.

Once your site is working, look for online communities where your target audience hangs out. Join these groups or consider advertising on them. Avoid conversations focused on sales. Instead, provide valuable information, ask for suggestions and always include a link to your site when possible. This will help to establish credibility and a certain level of expertise in your area.

In addition, look for online organizations that may be willing to post reciprocal links to your site. This can help build search-engine optimization and additional awareness.

'Build links by finding sites that are somehow related to you or which have an audience that matches the one you are after and ask them for a link, 'says Danny Sullivan, Search Marketing Expo West (SMX West) Conference Chair, eMarketing Association . 'However, avoid participating in automated link exchange programs that aren't going to create the targeted linking that you need.'

By conducting a little research, and getting involved with the right communities, you can learn more about your customers and get valuable feedback to improve overall sales.

3. Offer valuable information.

Consider giving your site visitors a free booklet, newsletter or other content. You may even offer special, signed versions of your book, webinars pertaining to your book genre and expert interviews. And if you are able to capture e-mail addresses by offering free information in return, you will start to form your own base of potential customers.

"By providing customers with additional information at no cost, you create a remarkable experience that helps you stand apart from the competition,' says Daniel Gaugler, marketing director at PrintingForLess.com, an award-winning Inc. 500 business that helps authors print their books. 'Plus, it creates positive word-of-mouth that cannot be purchased."

These are three quick tips to help you get through the online marketing clutter and start selling more books now. If Take the time to find the right resources to help you, get involved with appropriate online communities, and offer valuable information. And you will be well on you way to online book sales success! For more tips and information, visit www.jexbo.com.