Book sector digital marketing training programme

Application information

The Coalition for Books is delighted to open the application process for its digital marketing training programme. This is a bespoke programme developed in conversation with the sector, for the sector. Delivered by digital marketing training experts The Classroom it aims to tackle online challenges and opportunities and enable book sector professionals to position writers from Aotearoa alongside international brands and titles.

Please read the information below carefully. Please note applications for this programme are now closed.

About the programme

The programme offers a new, heightened level of professional development in book sector digital marketing. It will be delivered over a six month period, in a mixture of in-person and online sessions (timetable below) and provides a longer-term, deep-dive training that the Aotearoa book sector has not had before.

The course will equip you and your organisations with the tools and capability to improve your digital impact, your book or ticket sales, and your visibility. It aims to increase opportunities for publishers, event organisers and writers.

A core objective is to enable attendees to reach new readers and gain fresh audience insights. The programme also aims to support attendees in their efforts to reach a range of readers and audiences from diverse communities – in authentic ways.

Participant numbers are restricted to 20 (selection criteria and process information is set out below). Alongside expanded capability and skills, this cohort will develop strong interpersonal connections and collectively learn about ways to amplify individual campaigns across Aotearoa.

Key details to note

  • Successful applicants will pay a one-off registration fee of $300*

  • For participants based outside Auckland, The Coalition will contribute towards travel costs (airfare and accommodation) for each of the one-day Auckland-based workshops (max per person of $500 per workshop)

  • Participants commit to attending ALL sessions

  • Numbers are restricted to 20 (see selection criteria below)

  • A digital suite of course materials will be accessible to all members of The Coalition for Books at the conclusion of the programme

*The Coalition has received funding from the MCH Regeneration Fund to research and deliver the majority of this training. A registration fee will be used to cover the shortfall.

Selection process and criteria

  • Applications will be assessed by an independent panel of book sector leaders and marketing professionals

  • Preference will be given to book professionals who have marketing as a key component of their role

  • We particularly welcome applications from Māori book sector professionals

  • Successful applicants will be notified by Friday 20 October 

How to apply

Please apply by filling in the form available here (note applications are now closed)
The application deadline is 5.00 pm Wednesday 4 October 2023.

Timetable

Course content

The course will feature a wide range of digital marketing strategies and tools that specifically target readers and book enthusiasts as well as aid with the identification of new audiences. This will include content that supports innovative ways to reach a range of audiences and readers throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.

Attendees will have the opportunity to improve their marketing across a broad range of platforms. The course will offer end-to end support through in-person and online sessions, complemented by one-on-one tailored support specific to individual attendee needs.

A core course component focusing on engaging with Māori audiences in Aotearoa and considerations book sector professionals need to understand and be aware of when it comes to digital marketing will be delivered by Dawson Marama, CEO of Toi Hourua.

Topics include:

  • Considerations for identifying and engaging with new, diverse audiences on social media

  • How to ensure your social media accounts are optimised

  • How to develop an effective social media strategy

  • How to run effective social media ads and apply analytic tools for measurement and refinement

  • How to use AI in your marketing

  • How to optimise your content for search engines and your own site and platform use for discoverability

  • How to apply analytic techniques to your website traffic and design.

The programme will be delivered by digital marketing training experts The Classroom. Learn more about The Classroom here.

The Coalition for Books acknowledges support from the Manatū Taonga Regeneration Fund for this initiative.