For many authors, receiving feedback from readers in the form of a review can be an invaluable tool. Reviews help to build an author's reputation, increase visibility and credibility, and provide a source of motivation to continue writing. However, getting readers to leave a review can sometimes be a challenge. In this article, we will explore some of the ways that authors can encourage readers to leave a review.
1. Ask for a Review
The simplest and most straightforward way to encourage readers to leave a review is to ask. This can be done through an email, a message on social media, or in the author's bio or website. Asking for a review can be as simple as saying "If you enjoyed the book, I would be grateful if you could leave a review on X review site".
- Example: One Indie romance author adds a short line at the end of every book: “If this story made you smile, please consider leaving a review on Amazon—it helps me more than you know.” That one sentence generated hundreds of reviews.
2. Provide Incentives
Another way to encourage readers to leave a review is to provide incentives. This can be in the form of a giveaway, a discount on future books, or a special bonus chapter. Offering something in return for a review can motivate readers to take the time to leave a review, and it also shows them that their feedback is valued.
- Example: A thriller author gives readers a free bonus novella when they leave a review and email him the screenshot. This small incentive helped him build thousands of reviews in his early days.
3. Make it Easy
Making it easy for readers to leave a review can also be an effective way to encourage them to do so. This can be done by providing clear and concise instructions on how to leave a review, including links to the review sites, and by making the process as seamless as possible. The more effortless the process, the more likely readers are to leave a review.
- Example: One children’s author includes a button in her newsletter that says, “Click here to leave a quick review on Goodreads.” With one click, readers go straight to the right page.
4. Personalize the Request
Personalizing the request for a review can also be an effective way to encourage readers to leave a review. This can be done by sending a personalized message or email to each reader, thanking them for their support and asking if they would be willing to leave a review. Personalizing the request shows readers that their feedback is valued and that their support is appreciated.
- Example: Instead of sending a bulk email, one writer personally thanks his top fans on Facebook Messenger. Many of those readers leave glowing reviews simply because he asked them directly.
5. Engage with Readers
Engaging with readers can also be a great way to encourage them to leave a review. This can be done by responding to comments and messages, answering questions, and actively participating in online communities related to your book. Engaging with readers shows them that you care about their opinion and that you value their feedback.
- Example: One YA fantasy author hosts a weekly Q&A on Instagram. Readers who feel heard are the same ones who happily leave reviews when her new books drop.
6. Make it Fun
Finally, making the process of leaving a review fun can also be an effective way to encourage readers to do so. This can be done by creating a challenge or competition, such as a "Leave a Review Day" where readers are encouraged to leave a review in exchange for a prize. Making the process fun and interactive can motivate readers to leave a review and also make the experience more enjoyable for them.
- Example: One mystery author runs a yearly review ralley where each review counts as an entry into a signed book giveaway. Readers love the challenge, and the author gains dozens of reviews at once.
In conclusion, encouraging readers to leave a review is an important part of building an author's reputation and increasing visibility and credibility. By asking for a review, providing incentives, making it easy, personalizing the request, engaging with readers, and making it fun, authors can encourage readers to leave a review and reap the benefits of receiving valuable feedback.