Your book’s title is its first impression, a beacon in a sea of countless options. It’s the core promise that you make to your reader.
And, it’s one of the most powerful tools in your book marketing toolkit.
So, it needs to be captivating, informative, and memorable to both entice readers and accurately represent your work.
Crafting the perfect title can feel like wrangling a mischievous imp. The options are endless. Any author will tell you… ‘Titles are tough!’
Yet, to have a successful book, it is so important to get right.
While challenging, it’s also an author imperative that requires mastering – whether by you or through enlisting professional help. So, authors, please spend the time necessary to ensure yours is befitting of all the time and effort you’ve expended on writing the book.
I’ve put together some quick title tips here, but if you’re keen dig even deeper into what makes for a captivating title, you can email me at Linda@growthgarden.au with ‘Titles are Tough’ in the subject line and I’ll send you this handy e-book that is even more helpful! It includes:
|
For now, here’s your title ‘cheatsheet’!
Creating an enthralling title for your non-fiction book is crucial for attracting readers. Here’s are some tips to consider BEFORE settling on yours:
Who are you trying to reach? What language and concepts resonate with them?
Consider their level of expertise in the subject matter.
What problem does your book solve? What value does it offer?
The title should hint at the transformation or outcome readers can expect.
Avoid overly complex or ambiguous language.
Shorter titles are often more memorable and impactful.
Incorporate keywords that your target audience is likely to search for online.
This can improve your book’s discoverability.
A subtitle can provide additional context or clarify the book’s focus.
Use it to expand on the main title and provide more specific information.
Get feedback from your target audience.
Run A/B tests on different titles if possible (e.g., on social media).
Ensure the title isn’t already in use (especially in your genre).
Check for domain name and social media handle availability.
(adding ‘book’ can open up your options here)
Being too generic or vague.
Using overly technical jargon.
Making the title too long or difficult to remember.
Using cliches.
Is your book serious, humorous, or inspirational?
The title should reflect the overall tone of your writing.
Generate a list of potential titles.
Refine your list until you have a few strong contenders.
Rank your options, this creates greater rationale for each
Be mindful of your instinct, often your ‘gut feel’ is telling.
Let the titles sit for a while, and then review them with fresh eyes.
Benefit-Driven
“The Productivity Code: Unlock Your Hidden Potential”
“Financial Freedom: A Proven Path to Wealth”
Intriguing/Curiosity-Driven
“The 5AM Club: Own Your Morning. Elevate Your Life.”
“Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones.”
Authoritative/Expert
“The Leadership Handbook: Essential Skills for Success”
“The Data-Driven Marketer: Strategies for Growth”
Problem-Solving
“Overcoming Burnout: Strategies for Sustainable Success”
“The Stress Solution: Simple Techniques for a Calmer Life”
How-To/Instructional
“How to Write a Bestseller: A Step-by-Step Guide”
“The Art of Negotiation: Strategies for Winning Deals”
The perfect title is a marriage of creativity, strategy, and understanding your audience.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to tackling the tough title challenge and crafting one that unlocks the door to reader engagement and book sales!
Growth Garden Website: https://www.growthgarden.au/
Growth Garden Email: linda@growthgarden.au
Linda’s LinkedIn https: //www.linkedin.com/in/lindajohannesson/
