You’ve done it. You’ve written a book. It’s been edited and proofread. The cover gleams. You feel a sense of accomplishment coupled with a twinge of fear. Will anyone read your book? How you get it in front of your future clients? You must have an online book launch, my dear.

Here are the five things necessary for a successful launch:

1. Great launch partners

Writing may be a solitary activity but launching is best enjoyed with friends—lots of them! You’ll want friends, family, and colleagues who agree to focus their marketing efforts on one specific day, your online launch day.

2. Set-up your launch partners for success

You’ve asked and they’ve said, “Yes!” In addition to expressing gratitude, you can help them help you by providing sample text for them to use as the basis for their email invitations to their lists. Also, you’ll want to give them branded graphics, Tweets, and Facebook posts to share.

3. Communicate

Sure, everyone’s stoked that your book is coming out. The truth is that no one is as excited as you (well, maybe your mom is). Help your partners stay engaged and excited by communicating with them throughout your launch day. Tell them how you’re ranking in the categories you selected. Ask them to preorder your book and take photos of them holding it, reading it, or opening their book box.

4. Celebrate

The process of preparing for and launching a book can take significant energy. Be sure to save some to celebrate with your launch partners, your friends, and family. Pop the champagne or sparkling cider and jump onto Facebook Live or a Zoom call to celebrate with your team.

5. Express gratitude

Thank your launch partners verbally and with a follow-up email or written note. Be visible on social media and give them a shout out. Include your editor, proofreader, publisher, and anyone who supported you on your publication journey.

Ninja tip: hire an experienced online book launch manager. If you’d like to chat with me about launching your book, schedule a virtual coffee date.