A Gregarious Afternoon at BAM

I have set a goal of becoming gregarious. I looked up the word in the dictionary. The first definition was living in herds or flocks and that certainly didn't apply. The second was fond of the company of others; sociable. Aha! That's the one.
The reason for my gregariousness is the book signings. Up to now, I've sat quietly hiding behind my stacks of books, shy and self-conscious. Me, of all people! A crackerjack real estate saleswoman! Except in that case I was dealing with other people's property. Pushing my own stuff is truly difficult. Makes me uncomfortable and self-conscious. I'm a good observer/learner. I've been watching others. One fellow shook everybody's hand within reach. Another author did everything but tap-dance on the table. Both attracted due attention.
Using this new-found system of expression, Secuestro signing at Books-a-Million, Hammond, was considered by all involved a successful afternoon. Tristan Gill, the manager, couldn't have been more helpful. He set a Secuestro poster outside and one inside, and placed me at a table right by the door, a stack of books before me. Michelle, Jason, and Elena, the clerks, kept stopping by to check on our progress. The coffee bar is excellent. The young lady there drew a book from under the counter and said, "Mr. DiMaio said be sure to get you to sign this for him." That was a nice start to the afternoon. Mary P. was by my side. It's hard to brag on your own work, y'know? Better if somebody else does it.
For three hours, we had a solid stream of visitors. Some bought books, some already had books they wanted signed, and others just stopped to chat. Some strangers told stories that touched my heart. Without exception, everyone wants to visit Cuba.
Book signings can either be successful or big flops. I've had both, but I'm learning the system. You don't want to be pushy, but you can't be a shrinking violet, either. For those in my same situation, here
is what I've learned:
1) A month or two in advance call the bookstore. Ask for the manager. Ask for a book signing. (they're usually very agreeable). Set the date.
2) A week before check make sure they have books. In my case sometimes this has been problematic, as the bookstores have had problems getting books from the distributors who say they have problems getting them from the university press.
3) A week before start e-mailing your list with the place, date and time. Ask any club you belong to, to please mail the members. Most are really nice about doing this for you. Use the media: Facebook; Twitter; whatever.
4) Arrive 15 minutes prior to the hour. Set up posters. Spread the paraphenalia: book markers, calling cards, flyers, whatever you have.
Fill a bowl with candy mints for the kids. Have a good ink pen handy.
5) Always ask how they spell their name: there's Catherine, Katherine; Ann, Anne; Mary, Marie. Get it wrong and the purchaser is not happy.
6) When the time is up, gather your stuff; thank the managers and helpers. Later, I e-mail or slo-mail a thank you. People like to be appreciated for their efforts.

I've decided the only solution is not to think about the sale of the book or you'll get terribly frustrated. Think about the joy of writing it.