The Power of Connection: Why Engaging with Readers Matters at Events

There’s a big difference between simply showing up to an event with a table full of books and actually connecting with the people who walk by. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just dipping your toes into the world of book events, one thing remains true: how you interact with readers at your table can make or break your success that day—not just in sales, but in building genuine relationships.

 

 

Talking To Readers vs. Talking At Readers

 

It might sound like a subtle distinction, but the difference between talking to readers and talking at them is everything.

 

Talking at readers usually looks like this:

 

• Launching into a summary of your book the second someone makes eye contact.

   

• Dominating the conversation without asking questions or inviting dialogue.

   

• Pushing a sale, rather than helping them find their next favorite read.

   

We’re passionate about our books. We want people to know how amazing they are. But this approach often feels impersonal or even overwhelming to potential readers. Remember, they’re not just buying a book; they’re deciding whether to invest time and emotional energy in your story.

 

Talking to readers:

 

• Making eye contact and saying something that will draw them to your table. This can be as simple as asking them if they read the types of books your write.

   

• Once you've qualified them as reading the genre you write, ask them open-ended questions: “What kinds of books do you usually enjoy?” or “Do you have a spice level preference?”

   

• Tailor what you say based on their responses. If someone says they read romance, but prefer mystery and you have a romance that has a strong mystery subplot, steer them toward that book.

   

• Listening as much as you speak. While you may do a lot of talking, you should also be listening not only with your ears, but with your eyes as well. A person's body language can tell you as much as their words.

   

When you talk to readers, you’re engaging them to participate in a conversation. You’re seeing them not as a sale, but as a person—and people remember how you make them feel.

 

At the end of the day, events are about human connection. Readers don’t just want to hear about your book—they want to hear from you. They want to know the voice behind the words. And when you speak to them instead of at them, you’re giving them a reason to care.

 

So the next time you’re behind that table, don’t just be a salesperson. Be a storyteller, a listener, a fellow book lover. That’s what turns a casual chat into a meaningful connection—and maybe even a lifelong reader.