Publishing your first book is an incredible achievement — but once the book is out, the work isn’t over. In fact, one of the most important parts of an author’s journey comes right after publication: engaging with readers, media, and the literary community. Two of the most common ways this happens are author interviews and book signings.

Both are exciting milestones, but they can also be nerve-wracking, especially if it’s your first time. Whether you’re stepping into a bookstore for your first signing or sitting down for an interview with a journalist or podcaster, preparation is key. Here’s how to get ready, feel confident, and make a lasting impression.

Understand the Purpose of Each Event

While both interviews and signings serve promotional purposes, they differ in format and expectations.

  • Author Interviews are usually about sharing your story — not just the book itself, but your journey, your inspiration, and your process. Journalists, bloggers, podcasters, or media outlets want to offer their audience insights about you as a writer and the themes of your work.

  • Book Signings are more personal reader interactions. The focus is on meeting fans, signing copies, and often answering informal questions. They might be part of a bigger event like a reading, panel, or launch party.

Knowing the goals of each will help you prepare your approach and materials.

Preparing for an Author Interview

1. Research the Interviewer or Platform

Before any interview, find out who’s interviewing you and the style of their platform. Is it formal or conversational? Do they specialize in books, or is this part of a broader cultural outlet?

Listen to or read some of their previous interviews. Note the kinds of questions they ask and the tone they set. This will help you anticipate their approach and prepare answers that fit the format.

2. Anticipate Common Questions

While every interviewer is different, some questions come up repeatedly:

  • What inspired you to write this book?

  • How did you get started as a writer?

  • What is your writing process like?

  • Who are your literary influences?

  • What themes do you explore in your work?

  • What do you hope readers take away from your book?

Prepare clear, concise answers — but don’t over-rehearse. You want to sound natural, not scripted.

3. Have a Few Stories Ready

Great interviews often include memorable anecdotes. Think of a few personal stories related to your writing journey, your book’s creation, or something unexpected that happened along the way. Stories make your interview engaging and help you connect with the audience.

4. Know How to Talk About Your Book — Without Overselling

You should be able to explain your book in a few sentences (think: elevator pitch) and also talk about it in more depth when asked. Focus on its themes, characters, or what makes it unique, rather than giving a full plot summary.

Avoid sounding like you’re making a sales pitch — you’re sharing passion, not pushing a product.

5. Practice, But Stay Flexible

Consider doing mock interviews with a friend or colleague. Practice answering questions and talking about your work. This will help you feel more at ease when the real moment comes.

Preparing for a Book Signing

1. Plan the Logistics

Whether you or your publisher is organizing the signing, clarify the details:

  • Date, time, and location

  • How many books will be available

  • Who is promoting the event (you, the bookstore, the publisher)

  • Whether you’ll be doing a reading or Q&A

Confirming logistics ahead of time helps avoid surprises.

2. Promote the Event

Even if the venue or your publisher is promoting the signing, you should also spread the word. Use your social media, email newsletter, website, and local networks.

Let people know what to expect — whether it’s just a signing, a reading, a chance to chat, or a special launch celebration. Personal invitations to friends and local readers can make a big difference in turnout.

3. Prepare What You’ll Say

You’ll likely be asked to say a few words at the beginning or end of a signing. Prepare a short introduction that includes:

  • Thanking the venue and attendees

  • Sharing a brief story or thought about the book

  • Expressing gratitude for readers’ support

If you’re doing a reading, choose a passage that’s engaging and representative of your book — but not too long.

4. Bring the Right Tools

At the signing table, make sure you have:

  • Plenty of pens (preferably archival-quality)

  • A sign with your name and book title

  • Bookmarks, postcards, or small giveaways (if applicable)

  • A guestbook or email signup sheet (if allowed by the venue)

These details help create a memorable experience for readers.

5. Think About Your Signature and Message

Decide ahead of time how you’ll sign the books. Will you write just your name? A short message? A custom note for each reader?

If you’re expecting a long line, a simple signature and quick thank-you work well. For smaller, more intimate signings, you might have time for personalized notes.

Managing Nerves and Making the Most of the Experience

1. Remember Why You’re There

Both interviews and signings are about connection — with readers, with media, with your community. They’re a chance to share your story and make your work meaningful to others. Keeping that in mind can help calm performance anxiety.

2. Be Yourself

Authenticity resonates. You don’t have to be the most eloquent speaker or the most outgoing personality. Just be sincere, open, and engaged.

3. Embrace the Unexpected

Sometimes interviews take a surprising turn, or book signings have unexpected moments — like a reader sharing how much your book meant to them. Go with the flow. These are often the most rewarding parts of the experience.

4. Reflect and Learn

After the event, take a moment to reflect. What went well? What would you do differently next time?

The more you participate in interviews and signings, the more confident and natural you’ll become.

Final Thoughts

Your first author interview or book signing marks a new chapter in your journey — the chapter where your work steps into the world and begins to connect with readers. It’s normal to feel nervous, but preparation makes all the difference.

Approach each event with gratitude, a willingness to share, and a sense of curiosity about the people you’ll meet. With time, these moments can become some of the most rewarding aspects of your life as an author.

And remember: every bestselling author once sat nervously in their first interview or at their first signing table. You’re not just promoting a book — you’re building a career.