On the Publishing for Profit stream of the Self-Publishing with ALLi podcast, Joe Solari investigates why Amazon book launches no longer deliver lasting results. He explains how the algorithm now favors steady reader engagement over quick sales spikes—and how understanding this shift, along with the rise of AI-powered search, can help authors thrive in the new publishing landscape.
Listen to the Podcast: Why Amazon Book Launches Fall Flat
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About the Host
Joe Solari assists authors in developing successful businesses as the managing partner of Author Ventures LLC. In his role as a business manager, he supports his private clients, who collectively achieved gross royalties of twenty-two million in 2023, with an average pre-tax profit of 44%. This remarkable success results from implementing disciplined business strategies and maintaining an unwavering dedication to enhancing the customer experience.
What could be criticized or added?
The hyperbole of “launch death”: As I said, launching isn’t dead, it’s just changed. A strong start is still important for gathering initial data, feedback, and getting on “Also bought” lists. It’s just that now this start has to be qualitative rather than quantitative.
Lack of specific “How?”: The podcast does a great job of explaining “What?” and “Why?”, but barely touches on “How?”. The listener is told to “build an audience” and “train the algorithm,” but no specific instructions are given (e.g., “use targeted advertising on Facebook with the goal of ‘engagement,’” “collaborate with authors in your micro-niche,” etc.).
Conclusion: This text is a must-read (or must-listen) guide for any author who wants to succeed on Amazon in today’s reality. It requires a change in thinking, but those who embrace this new model will have a huge advantage over those who continue to chase outdated tactics.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)