How to use Amazon’s Early Reviewer Program to build credibility

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As an author, getting reviews from real readers is crucial for building credibility and increasing book sales. Amazon’s Early Reviewer Program (ERP) is a powerful tool that can help you achieve this goal. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of the ERP, how to participate, and provide step-by-step instructions on how to use it effectively to build credibility for your book.

What is Amazon’s Early Reviewer Program?

Amazon’s Early Reviewer Program is a promotional tool that allows authors to request free review copies of their books in exchange for honest reviews from readers. The program is designed to help authors generate buzz around their new releases and increase visibility on the platform. By participating in the ERP, authors can get their book in front of a targeted audience of readers who are interested in their genre, increasing the chances of receiving genuine reviews.

How does the Early Reviewer Program work?

To participate in the ERP, authors must meet the eligibility criteria, which includes:

  1. New Release: The book must be a new release within the past 30 days.
  2. Amazon Exclusive: The book must be exclusively available on Amazon (Kindle Unlimited and Kindle Owners’ Lending Library excluded).
  3. Kindle Format: The book must be in Kindle format (MOBI).

Once an author meets these criteria, they can create a promotional code through their Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) account. This code can be distributed to reviewers, who can then redeem it for a free copy of the book.

Benefits of Participating in the Early Reviewer Program

Participating in the ERP offers several benefits for authors, including:

  1. Increased Visibility: The ERP helps increase visibility for your book on Amazon, making it more likely to appear in search results and recommendations.
  2. More Reviews: The program encourages readers to leave reviews, which helps to build credibility and improve your book’s overall rating.
  3. Targeted Audience: The ERP allows authors to target specific readers who are interested in their genre, increasing the likelihood of receiving relevant and honest feedback.
  4. Improved Sales: With more reviews and increased visibility, your book becomes more attractive to potential buyers, leading to increased sales.

How to Participate in the Early Reviewer Program

To participate in the ERP, follow these steps:

  1. Check Eligibility: Ensure your book meets the eligibility criteria mentioned above.
  2. Create a Promotional Code: Go to your KDP account and create a promotional code for your book.
  3. Set Up Your Book: Make sure your book’s metadata is complete and accurate, including keywords, categories, and a compelling book description.
  4. Request Reviews: Go to the “Promotions” tab in your KDP account and click on “Create a New Promotion.” Choose “Early Reviewer Program” as the promotion type and set the number of codes you want to distribute.
  5. Distribute Codes: Once the promotion is set up, you’ll receive a list of email addresses from interested reviewers. You can then distribute the promotional codes via email or through a blog tour.

Tips for Effective Use of the Early Reviewer Program

To get the most out of the ERP, follow these tips:

  1. Targeted Outreach: Focus on reaching readers who are interested in your genre or have reviewed similar books.
  2. Clear Instructions: Provide clear instructions on how to redeem the promotional code and what you’re looking for in a review.
  3. Honest Feedback: Encourage reviewers to provide honest feedback, even if it’s not positive.
  4. Engage with Reviewers: Respond to reviewers’ comments and engage with them on social media to build relationships and encourage further reviews.
  5. Monitor Progress: Keep track of the number of reviews and ratings received through the ERP and adjust your strategy as needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To avoid common mistakes when using the ERP, be aware of the following:

  1. Over-Aggressive Outreach: Don’t bombard reviewers with multiple requests or spam them with emails.
  2. False Promises: Avoid making false promises or guarantees about what reviewers will receive or gain from reviewing your book.
  3. Unsolicited Reviews: Don’t request reviews from reviewers who haven’t expressed interest in your genre or haven’t left reviews before.

Why Should You Use the Early Reviewer Program?

There are several reasons why you should use the Early Reviewer Program:

  1. Build Credibility: The program helps you build credibility by encouraging readers to leave reviews, which improves your book’s overall rating and increases visibility.
  2. Targeted Audience: The ERP allows you to target specific readers who are interested in your genre, increasing the likelihood of receiving relevant and honest feedback.
  3. Increased Visibility: The program increases visibility for your book on Amazon, making it more likely to appear in search results and recommendations.
  4. More Reviews: The ERP encourages readers to leave reviews, which helps to build credibility and improve your book’s overall rating.

Amazon’s Early Reviewer Program is a valuable tool for authors looking to build credibility and increase visibility for their books on Amazon. By following these steps and tips, you can effectively participate in the program and generate buzz around your new release. Remember to target specific readers, provide clear instructions, engage with reviewers, and monitor progress to maximize your results. With careful planning and execution, you can leverage the ERP to boost your author credibility and drive sales.

Additional Resources

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