You’ve done the hard part, writing the book. Maybe you’ve drafted it solo, or maybe you tackled it through memoir ghostwriting or partnered with a professional on tight deadlines. Either way, your manuscript is complete, proofread, polished, and ready for the world.
Now the question is: how do you get people to actually read it?
That’s where marketing comes in, and if you’ve signed with or are considering ebook publishers UK, you’re probably wondering what sort of ebook publisher marketing support you can actually expect. Spoiler alert: not all support is equal.
In this blog, we’ll walk through the types of marketing assistance publishers typically offer, what you can do to make the most of it, and how to prepare ahead of time. Whether you’re aiming for a bestseller or building long-term visibility, understanding the role of your publisher and your own is essential.
The Reality of Publisher Marketing Support
Let’s be honest, most publishers won’t do all the work for you. Even the best ebook publishers in the UK often expect authors to play an active role in marketing. Unless you’ve signed with a Big Five house (and sometimes not even then), you’ll likely receive basic support and be responsible for amplification.
That said, ebook publisher marketing support can be extremely valuable if you know how to use it.
Here’s what it often includes:
Launch Campaigns and Promotional Coordination
At the very least, a publisher worth their salt will help organise your launch. That typically includes:
- Coordinating your ebook’s launch date
- Promoting it through the publisher’s website or newsletter
- Timing promotional pricing, countdown deals, or free downloads
- Listing your book on platforms with proper tags and eBook metadata optimisation
You’ll want to sync your own promotions with theirs. For example, if your publisher has scheduled a Kobo promotion, you can time your blog tour or social ads to coincide.
If your book falls under niche or B2B categories, like business leader ghostwriting, timing is even more important to catch specific market waves.
Advertising Campaigns (If You’re Lucky)
Some publishers offer paid ad support, such as:
- Amazon Ads (KDP campaigns)
- Facebook or Instagram ads
- BookBub Featured Deals (though rare)
- Google Ads for genre-specific targeting
These campaigns can be a massive boost, especially when optimised well. But don’t expect a big ad spend unless you’re a proven seller or your book has wide appeal.
That’s where understanding ebook publishing trends 2026 UK helps, publishers are investing more in books with strong metadata, clear genre hooks, and engaged author platforms.
Email Marketing and Newsletters
Some publishers have mailing lists ranging from hundreds to tens of thousands of subscribers. Getting your book featured in one of these can lead to significant spikes in visibility, especially when bundled with discounts or giveaways.
These lists are often segmented by genre, so if you’ve worked on a tightly defined niche book (say, memoir ghostwriting or a children’s story), ensure the publisher places it in the right category.
Just make sure your cover, blurb, and metadata are up to scratch. Remember: you get one shot at a first impression.
Social Media Promotion
Many ebook publishers in the UK maintain social media accounts on Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and LinkedIn. Depending on the agreement, they might:
- Announce your book release
- Share visuals or audiograms
- Tag you in posts
- Participate in launch parties or hashtag events
While this exposure is helpful, it’s usually not enough on its own. Be ready to repost, respond, and engage with their audience. Social media works best when it feels like a collaboration, so start early and align your messaging with theirs.
Trade Exposure and Platform Promotion
Reputable publishers often have relationships with retailers like:
- Apple Books
- Kobo
- Google Play
- Independent ebook stores
This can help with:
- Securing homepage features
- Inclusion in themed sales (e.g., Black History Month, Sci-Fi Week)
- Better ranking in niche ebook distribution channels in the UK
If you’re writing in a trend-aware category like ghostwriting ROI or tackling emerging nonfiction, this is a chance to position yourself as part of the conversation.
What You Shouldn’t Expect
Let’s set some realistic boundaries. Most ebook publishers will not:
- Build or manage your author website
- Handle daily social media posting
- Arrange book signings (unless in hybrid deals)
- Guarantee press coverage
- Hire influencers or secure TV interviews
Which brings us to a key point…
How to Maximise Your Publisher’s Marketing Support
Even with a good team, the burden of visibility still falls on you. But with the right strategy, you can complement their efforts and boost results.
1. Build a Reader Funnel
Capture emails with a lead magnet (free chapter or bonus content), and link it:
- In your ebook
- On your website
- Via socials
2. Use Their Timeline to Fuel Yours
If the publisher plans to push your book on a certain week, prep accordingly. Queue blog posts, podcast appearances, or social contests to align.
3. Track What Works
Keep a record of what promotions drive actual clicks or sales. Whether you’re selling via Amazon, Kobo, or directly, watch your dashboard closely.
Don’t Neglect the Basics
Before marketing can begin, your manuscript needs to shine. That includes:
- Clean formatting with proofreading checklists
- Error-free content using proofreading tools 2025
- Markups reviewed with proofreading symbols
- Understanding when to hire a proofreader (hint: before submission!)
- Adhering to best practices for proofreading in self-publishing
Don’t lose momentum over avoidable typos or sloppy structure. Even the best campaigns can’t fix a poorly edited book.
Choosing the Right Publisher Matters
Not all publishers offer marketing help, and some charge extra. That’s why it’s critical to choose ebook publisher options that clearly outline what’s included.
If you’re deciding between traditional vs ebook publishing, remember:
- Traditional routes may offer wider marketing reach but slower timelines
- Digital-first or hybrid publishers may give you more control, but you must bring your own audience
Evaluate how much marketing you’re prepared to do, and choose a partner who meets you halfway.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to ebook publisher marketing support, the rule is simple: the more you’re prepared, the more you’ll benefit.
Even if your publisher isn’t splashing your book on billboards, their support with launch strategy, newsletter features, or promotional timing can give you an edge, especially when combined with your own efforts.
At Lincoln Writes UK, we help authors make sense of publishing. Whether you’re planning a release, looking for the right ebook publishers UK, or building visibility post-launch, our team provides expert guidance every step of the way.
You wrote the book. Now let’s get people reading it.
