Recently a new author asked me how she should handle autographing her 
books. It took me back to when I had published my first book, remembering how awkward it felt to sign copies. I also thought about my first business—a bookstore—where we flipped through used books in search of autographs (the equivalent of a literary jackpot!). Some were short and sweet with just a name, while others had more personal inscriptions.
Here are some simple tips to help you prepare to autograph your books!
1. Decide where to sign.
I like to sign my books on the title page, which is where most books are autographed, though you can also sign the inside cover. In some cases, you may want to sign the front cover, though this is rare and would probably only be appropriate for a coffee table book or something that will be on display.
2. Personalize your message.
In most cases people want the book inscribed to them personally, though sometimes it’s intended as a gift so be sure to ask, “Should I sign this to you?” Use their first name and always ask for the spelling since even common names can have unusual spellings.
If you have time, try to personalize your message in some way: “It was great meeting you at the XYZ conference” or “I enjoyed learning about your business…”
3. Choose a signature phrase.
Ideally you should have one to three phrases that you write each time you sign a book so you don’t have to think too hard! Your message can also be memorable and should fit within the space allotted.
When I’m not pressed for time, I sign my books: “Wishing you abundant joy and success.” If a line of people are waiting I simply write “Best wishes.” Here are some others:
All my best
Thanks
In gratitude
To your health
Much appreciation
Warm wishes
Best regards
Onward
Your friend
Etc…
4. Make sure your name is legible.
Consider the fact that someday your book could be a collector’s item! Even if it isn’t, do you want to leave any doubt that you’re the one who signed it? If needed, practice writing your name so that it is at least partially legible. You should also sign first and last name unless your name is Madonna or Cher.
5. Add a date (optional).
Admitedly I usually omit the date—mostly because I can never remember what day it is! But recipients will appreciate it when you date your inscription.
6. Use a good pen.
I’ll never forget the day I was signing books and the only pen I had on me was one of those cheap stick pens I picked up from a hotel room. Though it got the job done, I didn’t feel like it demonstrated how serious I am about my work.
For those of you who autograph the cover or inside cover, a good Sharpie will probably be your best choice. For everyone else, do yourself a favor and invest in a nice pen. It doesn’t matter if the ink is blue or black, if the barrel is thick or thin, just choose something that you love and that makes you feel like an author! (Oh, and make sure the ink dries quickly!)
The information was exactly what I needed to know. I will have a book signing next month. The title is: On Becoming A Healthier Church: Managing “Your Stress.
Thank you very much!
So glad it helped. Good luck with your first book signing!
Thx so much! This was helpful! My book is for children and is called “Another Monkey?
A heartwarming story for ages 3 to 8 about love, gift-giving, and sharing.”
My 6 grandkids each drew a monkey. They will be book signing too.
Any suggestions for us?
This was exactly what I needed at this time. about to invest in a good pen! Thank you!
I’m grateful for this information. I just published my first book, “The Joy of Walking by Faith, “ to leave a legacy for my children, grandchildren, and extended family members. I’m a retired educator. Many friends are asking for a book signing event in the next weeks or months. I had no idea the significance of it. I appreciate this valuable information.
Thank you for great information! Just published my first book, “Baby Bernie Bison’s Big Day”, in a series of 3 children’s books. I will have a signing opportunity and sale at the Harlow Bison Ranch and so this is timely for me. Thank you!
On point, exactly what I need to know! I just published my first book, retired and did not want to be a Walmart greeter It took me three years but I did it–title, “The Neighborhood Scandals, Sins in the Sanctuary’, which is non-fiction.
Much Appreciation!
Thank you for sharing this information. it will allow me to sign my book with confidence. I am planning my first book signing and this information will helps. The title: “wojourney” stories of strength, struggle, and the Spirit of womanhood.
am a first time author and my handwriting is so terrible I’m so worried,what it’s going to look like
I’ve written 141 books over 43 years of being published and believe me, readers will be so excited to have a book signed by the writer, they won’t care about handwriting! Book signings are often hectic & noisy, and occasionally being distracted, I’ve misspelled a name someone has just spelled out to me! The first time I just about died inside, but managed to cross it out, write the correct one and told the reader that they now they know my deeply kept secret—that I’m not perfect. I always get a laugh & suspect they leave with not only an autographed book, but a story to tell.
Don’t worry, you deserve to have a wonderful time because, hey, you did something so many people who dream of being a writer never manage to complete—.YOU WROTE A BOOK!
If I may call you JoAnn-
JoAnn, i just got my first book in the mail. I’m nervous about not spelling a name correctly and not catching it before giving it to my little readers. But as you say, it’ll give them a story to tell! Happy writing and safe travels!
Thank you for this information. I haven’t autographed any books yet, but was thinking ahead; my thoughts were the inside cover, but I believe the title page would be more appropriate.
“The Homemaker Helper Series”
The book signing was a success! Thank you again!
Excellent, congratulations!!
Very helpful. I’m self-publishing my novel, Back Kicks And Broken Promises, through Abbott and may need to sign a few copies. You never know right?
Congratulations on your novel and I bet you’ll have lots of fun signing those books! Good luck!
Hi Stephen, I hope you have much success with your novel,and book signings. Best Regards, Kimberly
Thank you!
Practical common sense advice.
Buying a new pen tomorrow!
Thanks much for the useful information. I have yet to write a book, one of my essays would just published in This I Believe: Life Lessons. Thus far each copy I have autographed has been done differently–simply because I really had no clear concept of how to do it. The guidance you provided is much appreciated.
So glad you found this helpful, Alicia! I almost didn’t even write this post because I wasn’t sure if it was needed. I appreciate your feedback!
I just completed my first book. I had no idea about any functionality of write a book or a book signing event. This was just the right information to get started on my first book signing. The name of my book, “torment’s of an Angel. Once again, thank you for the information…
I just completed my first book. I had no idea about the functionality of writing a book or a book signing event. This was just the right information to get started on my first book signing. The name of my book,”Torment’s of an Angel. Once again, thank you for the information…
So glad this just popped up on Google! Exactly what I needed.
My author name (on the novel) is my middle and last name. Normally, I sign documents with my first name, middle initial, and last name. Should I autograph the novel with my pen name?
Thanks for the great information! I’ll see you at the Oregon Book Fair.
I don’t have plans to attend the Oregon Book Fair, though it sounds like fun. Good luck!
First book signing coming up on January 28. I never did one, so am not sure how it works. Do they bring there own books? Do I have to have books there for them to buy? Can anyone tell me the procedures. Thanks Bill
Hi Bill, More than likely you will need to supply books to be sold. If you’re signing at a bookstore, they will likely take a 40% discount off your retail price and pay you 60%. I’d recommend getting in touch with your host venue to work out the details. Good luck!
This is great information! I just published a small book of my sock monkey images and poems, “Sock Monkeys Forever”, and will be doing my first book signing November 26th. I’m going to go buy a good pen!
Thank you for the tips!
Laurie
Congratulations on your new book, Laurie. Sounds like a unique topic!! Best of luck to you.
Thanks for your advice and good wishes! I will let you know how it goes!
I thought the correct spot was on the title page and I sign above my name. Incidentally my two books are The King of Orchard Street and Ruthie Deeply, pls feel free to check them out. Thank you for the info…
I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve been thinking about this. Thank you so much for the tips!
So thankful that I found this. Strange to think that we don’t know how to sign our own names when the time comes. I’m preparing for my first book signing in a few weeks for locals, friends and family in our very small community. Very nervous. I self published, “Adopting in America: The Diary of a Mom in Waiting.” Hope it goes well.
I found your site while searching for “where to sign your book”. I am signing my first sale of a children’s book I wrote entitled Punkin: A Dog Gone Story. I am excited to give a personal note to a budding reader! Thanks!
Thank you, Stephanie, for all the info! I have a reliable pen in hand as well as a backup, ready for my first book signing this afternoon for my just released novel, “The Spirit of Nora”.
As a former bookseller, this post brought back some fond memories of our author readings/signings. One highlight was hosting Steve Allen, who, after a lifetime of autography, had a very consistent autograph. I’ve always wondered if celebrities have one signature they use for public autographs and another for their legal documents and money transactions. [Here’s an Identity Theft plot!]
May I add a suggestion to the list of do’s/don’ts?
Before autographing unsold copies, check with the bookseller first. Booksellers often overbuy for an event as it is better to return a few copies than not have enough. Some publishers won’t accept returns of signed copies, which would leave the bookstore with an out of balanced inventory. Also, if the booksellers does want signed copies, find out how many, and unless specifically requested, do NOT date your autograph. While a date may be meaningful to the customer, or to the collector of a first edition/printing on its release date, dating the autograph ultimately dates the copy as no longer being “new” if it is still sitting on the shelves a week, month or even year(s) later.
Excellent tips–thank you for adding those!
Might not dating the book give it antiquarian value?
Thanks for the information, it was timely. I just completed my first of three devotional books, in the series of ‘Experiencing God’s Plan -Together. For parents/friends to stay connected with their university children/friends while they are away from home. I have not had my first book signing as yet, so this was exactly what I needed to know. Thanks and God bless.
Congratulations on your book, Janet. Sounds like a great series. Best of luck to you!
Thank you Stephanie for the great tips. I have yet to organize my first book signing. What would you recommend?
Author of “What Is Love? Perspectives On Love”
Fadi
Thanks, Stephanie! I was delighted that my Google search for “How to autograph a book” came directly to your post. I haven’t had any formal book signings yet, but a woman asked that I autograph her copy of Don’t Give Up on That Dog! I didn’t have a clue, so your tips were very helpful.
Since this is an individual book buyer, is it okay to include the date? Another thought was to create a paw print stamp so I could also stamp the title page with our dog’s actual paw print. Do you think this is a good idea?
Hi Denine, I think the stamp idea is cute and would be fun in addition to your signature. Adding a date is really just a matter of preference so if you want to do that and it’s for an individual, then by all means you should. Good luck to you!
Hi Stephanie,
I found my way back to your post, and see that you responded. Thank you! I’m preparing for my first book signing in May, so I needed a refresher 🙂
Best regards,
Denine Phillips
Stephanie, good day
Sitting early morning in Vancouver Canada, looking for direction, this website is great!!
Your message, notes and guidance is direct and typical of an excellent leader.
Thank you, this will help me completing the process of a world untill 6 months ago, totally foreign to me.
Thank you for the compliment and best of luck to you!
Thank you so much. My book One Land Two stories is out this week.
It is not my first but others were academic.
This one is very different, receiving much attention I am asked to sign it numerous times. This was very helpful and thoughtful.
Thank you,
Shaul
Thanks, I published my book last year. Your tips are great and I am glad I did almost what were suggested. Christine Ong, Singapore
My book: Nyonya Kebaya Intricacies of the Peranakan Heritage
Hi, thanks for advice. I have my first book signing in May and will use your tips. By the way, do you usually have refreshments at book signings? Would the store do that or would I do that? thank you. gail
You can talk to the store about refreshments, but they typically don’t offer anything. You may want to feature some candy or something at your table to entice people. Good luck!
Thanks so much Stephanie, I’ll go get that pen now….thanks for the tips “All the best..”
Stephen
Prior to ordering (for myself) a stock of my book, “Around Damascus Township”, the publisher asked if I would be using my books for signings, and I replied “yes”. Now that signings are happening, the publisher insists that I sell the merchants’ supply of books before my own. There was nothing in the contract stating this, and nowhere else was this mentioned. What is protocol, if any? Thanks for your help.
Hi Barbara,
Hmmm. It’s usually up to the merchant, not the publisher, to decide how book sales will be handled. Though the bookstore or hosting venue will likely want to sell their own stock first or purchase books directly from you. The publisher shouldn’t really be involved in that decision unless they are involved in setting up these appearances for you…?
Best wishe,
Stephanie
Hi Stephanie!
So glad to have found your blog. It’s excellent!
I have just published my first children’s book: Caterpillar’s Dream.
Wondering how I could offer autograph copies online (besides offering those on our website). Would love to hear back.
Thank you!
Roitman Trillo
Hi Roitman, I’m not sure I understand your question… If you want to sell autographed copies via your website, you could always autograph book plates (stickers) to be included with purchases. Is that what you’re asking?
My books first came out electronically before I also offered paperback. Now that I’m having a signing someone asked how I was going to sign their Nook. (Tongue-in-cheek) I thought about it and came up with this idea. I made postcard sized copies with the cover on one side and the back blurb on the other with a space for addressing to mail, or just sign for locals, or I can sign one of each, scan and send electronically for my overseas readers. Everyone has liked this idea so far. Good luck to all of you book-signing authors.
Great idea, Sandra!
Hi my name is Constance
I have my first book signing coming up. My book is Beside Me by Nirel.
Your tips have helped me alot. Thanks
having my first book signing in august thanks for all your info and the tips. think they are sure helpful
My first book of poems is being published in Oct. 2012. This is very helpful to read through. I am sending signed copies to endorsers now – any tips for signing for endorsers? Like what to say? Thank yous? thank you, Louise
Hi Louise,
Here’s another post I wrote on how to get endorsements for your book–hope it helps! https://authoritypublishing.com/book-marketing/how-to-get-testimonials-for-your-book/
I’ve just published my first novel, a contemporary romance titled, “Incidental Happenstance,” on Amazon. As I have buyers around and even out of the country, it has been suggested that I sign book plates to include for those who request them. The size of the book is 6X9. What size would you suggest the book plates be so as to have enough room to write a little message? Should the title be printed on the book plate, and would you suggest any other artwork be included? A border, perhaps?
I think the easiest option is to purchase sticky name badges that are perforated so you can easily pull one off the sheet, sign it, and send it off. A border might be a nice touch, but not necessary as the recipient will be most interested in your signature and note!
Well that answer crosses another big job off my long list! Thanks so much!
These book signing tips are very helpful as I am on the verge of having my first signing scheduled soon. But I have a few questions if I may. My book “A Beautiful Husky needs a home” , that was reviewed by Betty White, has been out for a couple months, and I am totally green and somewhat fearful how to approach book stores for signings. My book is designed for children but written for families considering getting a new pet, it is also the official book (major funding contributor) of a pet health charity I have started. For the giveaways, would it be appropriate to bring Charity related items? The charity Runa’s R.A.C.E. Fund (R.R.F.), promotes pet adoption, posts pet health tips and disease warning signs, and has a blog and online store. I am also trying to link up with other charities that are rescues in a cross promotion on the website “Shelter Links” page. I was also thinking of having fliers made with the pet tips and or the shelters R.R.F. has already linked with. Would this be a good move? Or should I just stick to “book” things? I am learning as I go and by the seat of my empty pants pockets. Thanks,
Cherie AKA Runa’s MOM
I think it’s a great idea to work with related charities and find ways to cross promote. Successful book promotion definitely involves thinking outside of the box so keep trying new activities. As for approaching bookstores, there is nothing to fear. Even the big box stores are usually receptive to local authors. Just make sure to walk in and ask for a manager. Good luck to you!
Thanks for taking the time and actually thinking to write this for those of us that follow in your footsetps. It is better to think ahead than wait to look stupid or even worse, screw up books.
Sepmper Fi Stephanie
Perry McMullin, THE CROSS AND THE SWORD
thanks for the tips, I was thinking inside cover but title page might be better, also, the few I have signed I had trouble finding the right pen, so I may try a sharpie,
Thanks,
Ann Howie Hood
“Put it Back”
Children’s book
I have a question. For my Novel “Chris Lynheart” I’ve been designing my own alphabet and language to use for a land that I came up with, and I just finished the first book of my series this morning (minus all the editing and sending off to a publisher, ETC)
So if I were to sign a book, could I use it in the language I created? Personally, I think that would be very original. But I’m new to writing and this is my first book.
I think that’s an interesting twist, Dalton. I say go for it!
I havnt published any book yet but thanks am sure it will help. Thanks again.
Thank you for some great & helpful tips for autographing my first novel, Real Gold.
After 3 years my book has finally been published and I have a series of book signings
Thanks for all the helpful advice
I sign my books with
See you at the Races!
Iron Mate Mark
Mark Kleanthous
Athletes and now an author of “The Complete Book of Triathlon Training”
450+ Triathlon Competitor
I found the above information most helpful
I have a book signing next month. It took me nearly four decades to get a publisher to go for it and it is such a pleasure to be one of those seeking this advice. I love the helpful hints. Next month is time for my first royalty check and I can’t wait to see if I broke even on the expenses of using manuscript illustrations. [$100 each} and if I get ahead of the author’s advance. The book is certainly being offered in enough locations. .
Congrats on your book, Erik!
This was incredibly helpful, thank you. I’ll keep this in mind in case I may ever need to use this information. My first book is still being edited by a student editor. I don’t even have a publicist yet.
Thank you very much for the tips! It is a very good tips indeed for new writers. This helped me at my autograph session. Thank you again!
Thanks for all of the great pointers. This indeed makes me feel better about being a new author on Amazon. The title of my true story book is: PULPIT GANGSTER, Life Inside a Cult.
I have a book signing tomorrow in Harrisburg, PA. My debut memoir, ‘Braving Time’ was published in late 2012 by Balboa Press, so I’m new to all of this. Your article was most helpful. Many thanks!
Just the right information, at the right time. Thanks.
Sylvie Fox, author of Puppy Love
Thanks so much for writing this. My first book has just been published and although I’m not doing any official ‘book signings’ at the moment (mostly due to ill health) lots of family and friends are asking for personalised signatures on their copies.
They were nice enough to buy their own book and then bring it to me, but I was a bit stumped about what was right and what made sense for signing it. Your advice has really helped. I read elsewhere that you should add the date and thought it looked a bit impersonal, so I’m glad it’s a choice thing.
I think I’ll be taking your advice and doing a nice little personal message and then my name. It’s less stressful. Now I’ve just got to figure out what the personal message is… 😀
OMG! Stephanie, this has been absolutely fantastic information. I could never thank YOU enough… Can’t wait until I personally put it to use. I haven’t had a book signing myself yet, unfortunately due to health issues. However, can’t wait until I’m able too.
My Memoir “With Death Before Us” was released in Dec. 2012. And have worked on a book signing in Maui for next yr. when I’ll be there again. It’s the true grit of what a close family goes through when the father, husband fights for life. It’s filled with Love, positive attitudes, perserverance, spititualty, and the importance of being an educated advocate. Written with the feeling that If the book helps just one other person, it was well worth the blood, sweat and tears through the writing, that took 12 years to complete. Thank you again for the insight, and your sharing of this valuabale information. May God Bless YOU! I wish you the VERY BEST…
Congratulations on your book, Mary Lou!
I like to sign my name next to the printed words on the title page, if I’m just signing.
If I’m personalizing or dedicating I use the blank page prior.
And as suggest, I always use a green, fine tip, sharpie marker to match my brand.
These have been great tips and very helpful in autographing my Golf Rules series books.
Thank you for the information.
Richard E Todd
Author, Speaker, Golfer
http://www.TheGolfRules.com
This was very good information! I wrote my first book and was worried about how and what to write at the book signing.
Thank you so much. This is what I was looking for. … Going to my first book signing tonight, in Mongolia.
I have a book to sign titled: FRANCIS, THE POPE OF MERCY. Thanks for this insight. Best wishes.
Hi Stephanie,
Thank you so much for the tips. My book is, Journey of A Gamblers Wife and buyers are asking me to sign and i wasn’t sure what message to write.
Your tips are very helpful.
Thank you
Bella Sharma
Perfect answer to a simple question……thanks.
I just published my first book “Walt, a story of fathers, sons, and roadtrips”
Hi Bella,
My name is zaira Illanes and I just published my 1st children’s book. Sadie’s Adventures: Sadie learns to swim. Is on Amazon now! 🙂 I wrote the story, illustrated and published it myself. I came across your tips right after my 1st book signing, It’s funny because when I got busy at the book signing my mind went blank..lol. My fiance tells me I looked lost and my face turned white..lol. I just wanted to be personal on the signing but I guess the nerves got to me. Over all the book signing was a success.
Thank you so much for your tips, Attentive zaira Illanes.
I found your information on this topic to be most helpful! I am a new author for a collection of poems Living in Poetry-Poetry in Living and when personal requests for autographed copies were received, I was uncertain of the most appropriate message and location to place the autographs. Intuitively, I thought perhaps a short personalized positive message with unique signature on the inside cover page might be the better approach, but I could also understand how some may prefer signing on the title page. However, it would appear that signing the inside cover page may provide more writing space and protect fading of the ink quality, etc., over time. However, ink fading over time may be a non-issue with use of a quality pen as you suggested. I am grateful for your tips.
I just finished my third book, and first fiction novel. It is a mystery novel and I’m going set up some book signing events. I was concerned about the type of pen to use and where to sign. You provided me with good information. The name of the book is The Mosquito Bites and will be available for purchase July 1, 2016. Thanks for your insight.
Thanks for sharing this information! I just published my new children’s book, Walter The Pumpkin, in July and people are asking for signed copies. Your information will help me create memorable signatures. Much appreciated.
Thank you so much for your helpful tips. I am a new author and preparing for my book signing for my new release entitled Golden Nuggets – A Prophetic Teaching Series.
I really appreciate the information you put into this article. I am a new author who just self published a few days ago and offered signed copies, not really knowing what to expect.
In the first three days I sold 25 signed copies and numerous other printed copies through Amazon and my publisher, as well as a large number of paid downloads through Kindle.
My book is;
ART GLASS – Breaking Glass To Make Money: A Beginners Guide To Making Money With Art Glass – Copper Foil And Lead Work Explained
Book details here: http://www.creationsbyelder.com/node/113
Thank you again for the very useful information.
Hi, my name is Constance.
I have my first book signing in early September and have been struggling with
how to prepare for that event. I came across website today and have found it to be a God send. My book BESIDE ME, by Nirel is the story of my life’s journey but focuses on the blindness of living in an ever escallating abusive relationship and the extremes necessary to escape that to find peace. While a deep and disturbing subject matter it actually is an easy and often fun read, described by friends as having me sitting beside them when reading it. Hopefully it will illuminate someone in similar circumstances to get out sooner than I did.
Your site has helped immensley in preparing for my first signing.
Thank you.
Thank you for the information. I will host my first book signing for my first book, The Unbreakable Cord. I wasn’t for sure where to sign it and your information was very helpful.
Stephanie,
As a new author writing my first novel (Historical Fiction), I was looking exactly for this type of information. In fact, your article appeared first on Google! Thank you so much for this sound advice. I am certain it will assist me during my journey.
Thank you for the information Stephanie. This is the first book I’ve had published and I did find autographing to be a little awkward. Where to sign? What to say. I write under a pen name and am not sure whether to use my name or the pen name. The title of my book is; The Revenge of the Witch The Clarke Family Journal of Death.
I have just completed my first book! “A Badge to Kill.” This was all really helpful as I’m deciding where to have my book signing and what to do! I feel more confident and versed where I can exhibit grace and an awesome experience for my readers! Blessings to everyone!
Thanks for the information. I will be signing my first mystery novel, Murder off the Grid, at a book fair next week, and I wasn’t sure how to handle autographing.
Thanks for this. I put a signed copy of my book up for auction and was about to mail it out and was wondering where to sign it.
Just wrote and had published my first book…..Across the Miles – A True Fairy-tale Love Story. The transcribed letters my now wife and I wrote the last nine months I was in Germany with the Army and she was my mother’s boss in the bank in So Cal.