Empowering Authors and Bookstores in the Digital Age

 Anmol Ratan Sachdeva runs Rupantran that launched bizlite as the first product that helps anyone get online in just 10 minutes. Currently, bizlite is helping 200+ small businesses,consultants, writers, and freelancers, in networking, marketing and growing their online footprint. Here’s more.

AABP: Could you tell us more about your vision and how your company can help?

Anmol: Our primary goal is to empower new authors who often struggle to gain recognition and financial success in the traditional publishing world. Our solution is to help authors take control of their own success by leveraging digital mediums, social media, influencer marketing, and merchandise sales to increase their revenue and gradually build their following/fan base.

AABP: How do you help authors get online and stand out in the digital space?

Anmol: We assist authors in creating digital cards, which serve as an online presence and a way to connect with their audience. Additionally, we offer unique merchandise products like NFC bookmarks, VR experience merch, etc., allowing readers to access exclusive content, author interviews, or even purchase merchandise with a simple smartphone tap.

AABP: How can authors effectively use these digital cards to promote their books?

Anmol: Digital cards are incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways to promote an author’s work. At Bizlite, we make the creation of digital cards as simple as counting to ten. You just sign up and get one within 10 minutes. Once an indie author has their digital card link + QR, they can use it for promotions. One effective approach is to include QR codes on everything from posters and book insides to bookmarks and promotional materials. When scanned, these QR codes can direct readers to digital profiles with links to their social media, ongoing offers, exclusive insider deals, and even exclusive content related to the book.

AABP: What about influencer marketing?

Anmol: By collaborating with influencers who have a strong following in the literary world, authors can gain exposure to a wider audience and build a loyal fan base.

AABP: How can merchandising help authors?

Anmol: Merchandising presents a huge opportunity for authors to stand out and build a unique brand identity that integrates physical and digital worlds. By offering merchandise that resonates with their stories and characters, authors can create a deeper connection with their readers and establish a loyal fan base. Additionally, by leveraging the power of community and universe-building, authors can create a sense of belonging and engagement beyond their books’ pages. There are technologies like NFC and VR/AR which can be used to create interactive products and merchandise that can go viral and bring incremental revenue for the authors.

AABP: Do you think this approach will appeal to OTT platforms, and how can authors leverage technology and various platforms to gain attention for their books?

Anmol: OTT platforms are always on the lookout for fresh and engaging content, and books that have a strong visual element and a dedicated fan base can be very appealing. By using merchandised products, collabs, and platforms like social media, authors can create a sense of excitement and anticipation around their work that can translate into interest from OTT providers.

For example, an author who has built a large following on Instagram through a series of character illustrations and teaser snippets may catch the eye of an OTT platform looking for new content to adapt. Similarly, an author who has created a rich and immersive universe through their merchandise and digital promotions may be a prime candidate for a transmedia adaptation that spans books, video games, and streaming content.

AABP: How can bookstores benefit from your approach?

Anmol: Bookstores play a crucial role in the publishing ecosystem, and we believe they can also benefit from our strategies. By promoting repeat sales through QR and NFC bookmarks, bookstores can encourage customers to keep coming back for more. They can also build a sense of community by hosting events, book clubs, and author signings, which can be enhanced by offering exclusive merchandise. By creating a unique and engaging experience for customers, bookstores can increase customer loyalty and drive sales.

AABP: What’s next for your company?

Anmol: Right now, we’re focused on improving the bookmark segment and have just launched NFC bookmarks for book clubs, stores, and even authors looking for community building. In the near future, we plan to expand our range of merchandise offerings and partner with more bookstores to create immersive experiences for readers. We’re also working on launching an author market-ready kit that lets authors launch their own merch range with a small investment to promote online and get attention. Our ultimate goal is to create a thriving ecosystem where authors, readers, and bookstores can all benefit from the power of storytelling.