It doesn’t matter if you write fiction or non-fiction or if you’re a best-selling author or a mid-list author, this information applies to ALL writers. There are three things you need to do. Actually, there are a zillion things you should do to promote your work but these are mandatory (if you want to succeed).
1. Create a website that is effective; a place where your readers and the media can learn all about you and your titles. Make sure the media has a way to reach you whether it be an email link or a comment box and that the media is aware that you are aware for interviews. Your author website should not be an area where you try to save money. Hire a professional who will create a professional site. Be sure to post lots of good content and reply to comments in a timely manner. Give it a makeover periodically. Be sure to create a bookstore on your site or links to online booksellers.
2. Take advantage of good book resources. I’m talking about Goodreads, LibraryThing, Shelfari, and Amazon. You can create an author profile on Amazon and add your website link to it, as well as book trailers. This is a great way for readers to connect with you. The same is true with Goodreads, LibraryThing, and Shelfari. What I like about these sites is that they are used by readers! Unlike posting on Facebook or Twitter or other social media, this audience is 100% book lovers. And you can reach them by opening an account and stocking your virtual shelf with your titles. But don’t stop there. Add your favorite books and books that you are currently reading. Add reviews and join discussions. In other words, be active! But do NOT use these forums to push your books. It is fine to make sure that folks know you are an author and what books you have written, but these are not sales outlets. These are places for you to connect with readers, to establish a relationship, and make folks aware of your work. Period.
3. Social media. I am almost ashamed to talk about its importance given that I am SO bad about this. But if you’re going to use social media to promote yourself, you need to do it consistently. Do as I say, not as I do! This means making a commitment to two or three, such as Twitter and Pinterest, and then being faithful to that commitment. Don’t try to do all social media as this is just setting yourself up for failure–or creating the biggest time suck ever! If you’ll do it, then I’ll try to do better…
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