What Is Netgalley: New User Guide
Love reading and thoughts on books? Want to get early access to the best new books? If so, Netgalley is the place to be! With so many new releases hitting the shelves, publishers are eager to connect with readers who can help spread the word. That’s where NetGalley comes in. What is Netgalley? It’s a platform that connects book lovers with free advanced reader copies (ARCs) in exchange for honest reviews. Whether you’re just starting your bookish journey or looking to grow your influence, this article will show you how to use NetGalley get early access to books and kickstart your path as a book influencer.
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Big Picture
NetGalley is a digital platform that connects publishers and authors with book reviewers. It’s one of the easiest ways to start reading new books before they’re released. Publishers (from big names to indie presses) upload their latest titles, and reviewers (aka Members) can request access to read and review them. Once approved, you can download the e-galley directly to the NetGalley app or your Kindle or Kobo. Audiobook galleys are available to be accessed through the NetGalley app, as well. It’s a fantastic resource for anyone looking to grow their bookish presence or simply stay ahead of the curve.
How to Apply to NetGalley
Joining NetGalley is easy and totally free! Just click the “Become a Member” button and fill out your profile with a few key details. You’ll be asked to share where you plan to post your reviews, so be ready to link your Instagram, TikTok, Goodreads, blog, or any other platform where you talk about books. The stronger your profile, the better your chances of getting approved for the titles you want!
How to Optimize Your NetGalley Account
Once you're approved as a NetGalley member, it’s worth taking a few extra minutes to fully optimize your profile. A strong profile can make a big difference in getting approved for the books you want. Start by adding details about your reading preferences, including your favorite genres (called categories on NetGalley), authors, tropes, and themes. Then, follow any publishers you’re interested in working with to show your enthusiasm and stay updated on their latest titles. Finally, be sure to link all your review platforms (Instagram, TikTok, Goodreads, blog, etc) so publishers can see where you’ll be sharing your thoughts. A strong, well-rounded profile sets you up for success! Here's a quick snapshot of my Bio in case you need some inspo.
How to Get Started with NetGalley
Now that you’re officially a NetGalley member, it’s time to dive in! The best place to start is the Read Now and Listen Now section, where publishers have made certain titles instantly available. That's right, no approval needed. Look for books that match your favorite genres or themes and start building your review history. These early reviews help boost your feedback ratio, which makes a big difference when you begin requesting titles that require publisher approval. Read Now (and Listen Now) titles are the perfect low-pressure way to get familiar with the platform and start building credibility.
How to Improve Your NetGalley Feedback Ratio
Your feedback ratio (books approved vs. books reviewed) is a big deal on NetGalley. It’s one of the first things publishers look at when deciding whether to approve your requests. Trust me, I know how tempting it is to request all the books, but going on a Netgalley requesting spree can seriously tank your percentage. Instead, keep a running list of books you’re interested in and only request a few at a time (try using their new List function). Popular titles often have limited copies, so it’s better to be selective and focused.
The key is to review what you request. I personally use a spreadsheet and Google Calendar to track approvals, pub dates, and when to post reviews. It keeps me accountable and organized. (Get a copy in my Freebie Vault when you sign up for my newsletter!)
Bottom line: get a system in place early so you can stay on top of your TBR and keep that percentage healthy!
Other Helpful NetGalley Tips
Good news! NetGalley offers plenty of resources to help you get the most out of your account. Be sure to explore the NetGalley Member Knowledge Base, a hub full of helpful articles on everything from perfecting your profile to managing your feedback ratio. Once you're approved as a member, don't miss the Book Advocate Toolkit—a members-only guide packed with tips on optimizing your account, writing great reviews, and growing your presence. It’s an incredibly useful resource, especially if you're hoping to build your bookish platform while getting access to great reads!
A Final Thought
NetGalley is a great starting point for aspiring book influencers, but don’t overlook publisher influencer programs! These often offer access to physical galleys and finished copies straight from the source. I’ve put together a comprehensive guide to publisher programs to help you navigate these programs and take your book content to the next level!
Before You Go
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