Create buzz for your book. Write press releases and send them to your local media. Make appearances on your public access television station. Do this before you start visiting bookstores.
Decide whether you want the bookseller to buy the books outright or sell them on a commission basis. Offer a return policy so the bookstore doesn't have to wonder if your book will sit on the shelves for years.
Place your book with a distributor such as Ingram or Baker & Taylor. You'll make less profit, but your book will be placed in multiple bookstores across the country.
Have high-quality promotional materials, such as bookmarks and posters, created for the book. Give these to bookstores and offer to provide more whenever they need them.
Send complimentary copies of your book to staff buyers at Christian bookstores. Follow up with a call or personal visit to gauge their opinion. Buyers see lots of books and can't carry them all.
Offer incentives to both booksellers and book buyers. Insert coupons into your books for future discounts. Tell booksellers you'll be happy to arrange a book signing at their store, and you'll do all the work yourself. You'll draw more customers into the store who will buy other books.
Purchase display stands and offer them to the bookstore with the book. They will promote the book by making it more visible and will free bookstore shelf space.
Hire an agent to promote your book. Choose someone with good marketing skills, a pleasant personality and knowledge of the Christian book market.