Successful Scripts For Ads. Or how to make those few words work for you.

Successful scripts for ads.

Or how to make those few words work for you.

During my very short visit to RT in Atlanta I had the opportunity to sit in a BookBub panel that aimed at demystifying a good, successful script for an ad — or what should be included in a book ad that will assure sales.

It was a good panel even though both young reps seemed to have had way too much coffee for breakfast. They spoke a million miles an hour and were super bubbly. That said, the information they imparted was interesting and hopefully useful once I decide to try my hand on an ad.

Here are some pointers deriving from their own A/B Tests:

Accolades sell. But some more than others. Author’s quotes sell more than a publication quote (i.e. An adventure to remember-J.K. Rowlings vs. An adventure to remember-The New Yorker)

Editorial reviews and ratings help.

Using comparable titles and/or authors are sellers (i.e. This book is a delight for fans of– or Perfect for fans of –)

Ending with a positive statement seems to be highly effective (i.e. a sexy, uplifting read or a powerful, captivating tale)

Identifying the hooks and the tropes also seem to be of major importance (i.e. best friend’s sibling or cowboys)

Absolutely NO violence in the blurb (yes, even if there is some in the actual book)

The use of adjectives also make a difference but only if it refers to a character trait, not a physical (i.e. the devilish duke vs. the handsome duke)

Location, location, location. Even in the world of book advertising the setting of the book is a seller, so do mention that the book is set in Maine or the moon in the script.