Book Marketing: From Humble Dolt To Sleazy Salesman
Many hopeful authors daydream about writing and publishing a book, yet they don’t ponder the afterworld. And by afterworld, I mean the evil, dreaded, and terrifying land that is MARKETING.
This was me before:
Image credit: Microsoft Clip Art
This is me now:
Image credit: thecarconnection.com
Marketing is so foreign to me that I don’t even like to talk about it. Makes me feel dirty. But some of you have asked me to describe what followed The Seneca Scourge’s release, so I’ll tell you my steps thus far.
To me, marketing falls into two groups:
- Online Marketing
- Face-To-Face, Make-Me-Puke-From-Fear Marketing
Since my paperback remains at the printer, I’ll focus on online marketing of my e-book for now. Note: this is my own personal bread-crumb trail, not a how-to marketing tutorial.
Online Marketing
- Blogging
- Well, duh, you know about this already. But I haven’t done blog tours. It doesn’t seem fair to ask a fellow blogger to interview me or write a book review on his or her site when I don’t reciprocate in kind; I worry doing so would change the focus of my blog. Of course, I always enjoy discussing other bloggers’ books on my site, but I do this because I want to, not because it’s a back-scratching payoff.
- But for the record, three bloggers devoted entire posts to my novel—whether in the form of a book review or interview—without my even having asked: butimbeautiful, Joy in the Moments, and Reading Today. The fact these bloggers did so speaks more to their generous characters than any words I could proffer.
- Twitter
- I use Twitter primarily to engage in a ridiculous fashion with other tweeps, punctuated by an occasional health-promoting tidbit to remind followers I am an adult. Any tweets about my book tend to be in a humorous vein, although I will shamelessly retweet others’ kind words—I’m not an idiot, after all. Oh, wait, I am. Well, regardless, I prefer to promote demurely rather than shoot off tweet after tweet of book twaddle nobody cares about. Admit it—like white noise for the eyes, we all glaze over those.
- Facebook
- I know, I know, I need to join. Can someone please lend me the time? What will I post about? What more can be said that hasn’t already polluted my blog or Twitter? Maybe health morsels in a fun fashion. What do you think?
- LinkedIn
- I’m on it. I neglect it. Connect with me if you like.
- Forums
- I’ve been a member of forums in the past, mostly fitness or medically oriented, though I recently joined a book forum. I’ve stepped up my interaction on these sites and maximized my profile, including adding a blog-linking signature to the bottom of each comment. Yes, this is cheesy, but I do enjoy the interaction, and once other members have suffered my bits of drivel, they can choose to click or not.
- Author Sites
- Amazon? Check. Goodreads? Check. Barnes & Noble? Won’t let me.
- About.me
- Reviews
- Ah, yes, don’t we all want ‘formal’ reviews? I have two in the works. Hopefully. There are never any guarantees.
- Professional Contacts
- Like the whore I am, I sent out e-mails to well-connected colleagues who subsequently spread the word. I did the same with family, though those e-mails probably made it as far as the trash can.
- Alumni
- I e-mailed an ‘update’ to my various alma maters. They love to know what their graduates are up to. No one said it couldn’t be to toot my marketing horn.
- Advertising
- Haven’t done any of this yet, but I might look into it. If anyone has suggestions, I’m all ears.
So there you have it. Once the paperback is out, I’ll step up local marketing (book signings, notification to local newspapers, handing out bookmarkers, interviews). That should be fun for an introvert.
Advice for me? Admonishments? Did you fall asleep?
Related articles
- 4 Online Marketing Tactics Every Writer Should Use (dangerouslee.biz)
- Best of the Web Book Marketing Tips for the Week of October 1, 2012 (amarketingexpert.com)
197 Responses to “Book Marketing: From Humble Dolt To Sleazy Salesman”
I feel your pain. …those pictures made my day, though.
Good to know. Thanks for stopping by! Long time no see.
I looked at those photos and laughed out loud. I know what you mean, I feel conflicted about marketing my writing too, but I know it’s important. You don’t have to worry though, you always come across as earnest and good hearted, never sleazy. Based on what I read of your marketing efforts, it appears you have your bases covered!
Thank you! That’s nice to hear. But soon the face-to-face stuff will start. I have a book signing next month in New Hampshire (my mom set it up for me for when I go visit her–talk about a built-in marketer). Now I just need that dang paperback…
As a social media manager who has a self-published author as a client once…it’s HARD. But Facebook can be very useful because there’s SO MANY PEOPLE. A fan page can work almost as well, or even better than a website.. I don’t know if anyone gave this advice already. I’m only half a coffee in to my morning, I can’t handle 200 comments. I,m also feeble minded.
In short, keep your branding consistent across all platforms. LinkedIn has company pages you can build and add links/images (LinkedIn is boring, but you can direct traffic from there to more dynamic places like twitter). You’ll need time to make social media work. It’s daily.
I could write you a small novel on this. But I won’t. SOEXCITINGTHATYOUHAVEABOOK!!
You are so right–social media is daily. I feel like some days, that’s all I do. I enjoy it, but I really must get my creative writing done, too.
I actually have a hot date with Facebook this afternoon. I’ve put it off for too long. So your comment came at the perfect time, as it motivated me to keep this sign-up ‘date.’ Thanks so much for your advice. To get free advice from people who work in the area is one of the many wonderful perks about blogging. And congrats on being Freshly Pressed!
Thank you! Lemme know when you get set up on FB, and I will shout it from the roof tops.
Thanks!
I am the world’s worst self promoter, so this was all good information for me. One day I might have occasion to use it.
Glad it was helpful for that day when you release your best seller and need to do a little marketing. Then again, if you have a best seller, you probably don’t need any marketing tips at all…
Doesn’t sound so bad! I finally started the book and would read through the night if my eyelids weren’t always so heavy. Quite the page-turner!
Thank you! Glad you’re enjoying it.
I don’t know that you’re really missing out by not using Facebook… unless you would be one of those people with 400 friends. Then you’re missing out, but mostly it’s just a place where people brag about having worked out. “I just worked out and I feel so euphoric!” I always feel like responding with, “I just ate gummy bears and drank a glass of wine, and I feel euphoric too!” Except I would never actually say that because I too am an introvert. So I have a love/hate relationship with people knowing what I’m thinking; it generally works on a need-to-know basis.
And I too sweat when I think about things like book signings. That was actually my first thought when I read the word marketing… I genuinely like people one on one, but large groups of people are terrifying.
Thanks for your thoughts on Facebook. I suspect I’ll have a similar experience, but I’m going to sign up for it tomorrow, anyway (or this weekend). Some things I read say authors absolutely should do it; others say it’s not necessary. Guess I won’t know until I try. I just hope I can squeeze it into an already heavy social media schedule!
Wow, Carrie, between your own work and your commenters, you’ve got a comprehensive grasp of the marketing/advertising opportunities. I have one tiny piece of advice to add, for what it’s worth.
No matter where or how you choose to promote your book, the prime question in every potential buyer’s mind is: “What’s in it for me?”
How will readers feel while reading? What will they take away? I think you’re nailing it when you say your readers will want to wear gloves and a mask while they’re reading your book. Sounds like an excellent marketing statement to me.
Thanks, Diane. And I haven’t even gotten to the face-to-face stuff yet. I have a couple bookstores that will carry the paperback once it’s out, and I have several more to solicit still. And I have at least one book signing scheduled with another in the works. That’s the part that makes me quake. Now, I just need that stinkin’ paperback…
I love the pics of the before and now – too funny. You’ve done a lot of work to get your book out there and you should never feel sleazy about promoting it – unless the book is sleazy and then it seems you actually get rewarded for writing that kind of thing… (50 something or other anyone?) but I digress. Be proud, promote and sell some books
You have never come across as anything but smart, kind and considerate – never sleazy.
Thank you, Sheila. It helps to hear that. Especially since I was just in the process of formulating an email to my local bookstore to discuss their proposed fee split. Is so not me!
I must say that you way far from ever being a sleazy salesman! And Facebook is so easy – much more so than Twitter for me. You can do this! Plus, I already told three of my Kindle-loving pals to get your book. Word of mouth is sometimes the best marketing of all!
You are right–word of mouth is indeed the best marketing tool! Thanks so much for spreading the word about my book. I really appreciate that.
And Facebook is on my list for today or tomorrow. In fact, I’m going to go check it out shortly. I just hope the learning curve isn’t too steep. I need user friendly.
Reblogged this on Earth2Body Sisters and commented:
This is a GREAT post about writing and marketing!
Thank you!!
Hey, about the Facebook thing? I use Networked Blogs to syndicate my posts to Facebook. You can also link your Twitter to FB so it will auto post your Tweets on your FB page. Easy Peasy. I almost never post directly to FB, but I know a lot of people are on FB only. So it’s a good idea. Maybe I’ll write a post about it. Thank you SO much for stopping by our blog. I’m really excited about your book too!
It’s funny–because I didn’t realize you were the one connected to Earth2Body Sisters blog. I mean, I must have, and that’s how I initially found it, but I guess I forgot. Thank you for stopping by mine as well!
I actually have it on my list to sign up for Facebook today or tomorrow. I plan to do it; I just hope it isn’t too much of a learning curve. But I know it’s time. Thanks for the tips on it.
Wow…this actually really opened my eyes! Marketing is pretty much my black hole as well (though at the moment I have nothing to market, so even more so). I’m impressed by you know. I just bookmarked this page! Thanks!
Glad you found it helpful! Sadly, I haven’t yet written the “other half,” which will come once the paperback is out, and will include the “fun” that is booksigning, contacting local newspapers, trying to get the book in stores, etc. Oh, boy, can’t wait…
I really don’t know how you find the time Carrie. I guess it’s all investment toward future goal achievement, but dang. I can run 20 miles (hopefully 26!), but reading your marketing to-do list exhausts me. (and you’re a doc and a mom and a blogger who actually dialogues and and and…)
Tell us the truth. You’re really a non-sleeping vampire aren’t you? Carrie Cullen… I knew it!
Kudos for going after your dreams. You’re an inspiration!
Well, thank you, but remember, I’m taking time off from the work scene for now. I haven’t been in clinic for six months. I was on the way to transition into non-clinical work and then decided to take a year for this “writing thing.” Who knows where I’ll end up, but I couldn’t do this all if I was currently working full-time. But I appreciate those kind words.
No, I didn’t realize that Carrie, I’m sure that gives you a few hours to sleep then. So how about just a super-hero Wonder Woman instead of a vampire?
You’re still an inspiration! Even more so that you do so much and are still so humble about it all.
I’ll take super hero Wonder Woman any day.
Thank you for such lovely words!
It does sound like a long and unpleasant process, but I love the picture of you with the cigar and the pinky ring.
Yes, I think it may be my best look yet.
Sounds like you’re doing a terrific job with the marketing.
If you want to do a guest post on my blog, I’d be happy to have you there anytime. 
Thanks, Kourtney. So nice of you to offer!
I have many years of sales experience, and am, in my own humble and unbiased opinion, an excellent salesperson. However, it may (or may not) surprise you to know that I (think) I know just how you feel.
When I have a product I believe in, it’s easy to sell. In the past, I’ve worked for two very good insurance companies, and I had no problem pushing those products on people who needed them (I wouldn’t try to sell someone something they didn’t need, although I often sold people products they hadn’t previously known they needed). I knew that they would be better off with this protection.
However, when it comes to promoting my own stuff, I’ve really had to climb over barriers, and I’m still not where I want to be. There seems something slimy about pushing my own stuff, as if every conversation in which I bring it up is simply the results of my ulterior motives for profit and recognition.
Well, there’s some truth to that, but we’re wrong to feel the way we do. Think about it from your health care background. If, for example, the United States was not as advanced as it is in the realm of dental hygiene (and you being from Ohio, I may have touched a nerve here), would you have any problem telling people about the benefits of brushing? You might be an evangelist about it.
It’s the same thing with your work. Do you think TSS is good? Obviously, like all artists, there’s some fear there, but I don’t think you would have published it if you didn’t think it was good, and I know for sure that your editor and publisher wouldn’t–they’re not going to do you any favors without knowing you first. So if something is “good,” why WOULDN’T you want other people to experience it? In a way, it’s kind of selfish to keep it from them, don’t you think?
Well, when you put it like that…
I get what you’re saying, and you’re right, I have no trouble pushing dental hygiene and infant car seats and exercise and antioxidants–but those are for the greater good. The Seneca Scourge is not. And no matter what, it’s always hard not to feel like a fraud when we venture into the unknown.
Thanks for stopping by and for your words of wisdom. I do value them since my experience in sales is negligible.
You may have more experience in sales than you think. You’ve heard the cliche that sales is just selling yourself, right? Well, like many cliches, there’s a lot of truth to that. I came into sales from teaching, and I felt like a lot of the experience transferred over. I expect you might have some teaching experience from your grad school days, or just from presentations you’ve given in your professional life. And, as a parent, I KNOW you have some teaching experience. I learned a lot more from my family than I did in school.
Whether you like it or not, from here on out, to some degree you will forever be a salesperson, promoting yourself. It’s a good idea to be aware of your deficiencies and weaknesses, but rather to define yourself as a salesperson by your strengths, while addressing those weaknesses and deficiencies.
Regarding child safety seats. I’ve read at least one study (and I take single studies with a grain of salt, but this is interesting) that the efficacy of child safety seats is hugely overrated. That’s not to say that they don’t save lives–the study found that they do–just not nearly as many as claimed. Now, on its face, such an allegation sounds absurd. All one needs to do is look at the statistics from accidents before and since CSS were introduced to see that children are faring better in accidents. However, the study claims that most of these benefits come from the fact that the child is restrained and (most importantly) in the BACK seat. However, the study did find that the seat itself saved something like 4 lives a year (that stat is from memory and shouldn’t be construed as an actual figure, but it was low). Just thought that was interesting.
As you point out, we have to take studies with a grain of salt. There are far more that show car seats do protect children significantly. I’ve seen very sad car accidents where the parents were severely injured (or killed) while the baby was unharmed in his/her seat. The problem is, many car seats aren’t properly secured or installed.
And I will heed your sound sales advice, pull up the big girl pants, and make it happen. Thank you!
Okay, but I wonder if those studies used as a control examples of kids in the back seat who were strapped in but didn’t use child safety seats. You might think “Well of course they did!”, but you might be surprised (and I really mean “might,” I have no idea whether they factored those things in, but I tend to doubt it; there’s a recent NYT article about the vast amount of data that is fudged).
Statistics lie. There’s an old example from WWI. The British soldiers began the war wearing cloth helmets, and so a lot of soldiers were receiving horrific head injuries. So, they switched to metal helmets.
What do you think happened? Head injuries actually INCREASED following this innovation. Why?
Well, it was just how they looked at data. The metal helmets were actually beneficial, they saved lives. But because “head injury” and “death” were distinct classifications, and because more people were surviving (with head injuries) the number of head injuries seemed to rise.
I cite this example not for its relevance but as an illustration that we tend to confuse a correlation (kids in safety seats tend to fare better in accidents) with a catalyst (the seat itself or position?).
Again, I’m not basing an argument on a single study, just saying that how we look at things makes a difference. Even the study I cited says that kids are safer in CSS than not, just not as much safer as people tend to think.
Oh, you’re speaking my language now. I’ve preached to many a student and resident about statistics and the need to discern a study’s methodology. Correlation is by no means causation. Unfortunately, doing randomized controlled prospective trials of certain things is not ethical (such as purposely using a group of unrestrained kids for a control group for a two-year prospective study), so data has to be mined as best it can and the limitations of the study taken into consideration. See? Much more comfortable with this than I am sales.
Hahaha… people who sell online video footage of themselves vacuuming in the nip? Dirty. People who plug books they agonised over creating? NOT dirty
Off to read the reviews – I used to be a reviewer in a past life, it can be fun!
Oops. So I shouldn’t have put up that You Tube video where I’m vacuuming in the nip while reading my own book? Sorry–gotta go. I have to quickly take something down…
Thanks!
One has to do what is best for them in a manner that is them – which is what you have done!
Thank you! So far so good, anyway. Now, for the face-to-face part…
Do what you can, but ease into it!
Kind of like slipping into a pair of leather pants.
Good luck with the leather pants.
You have done a wonderful job, Carrie! I have complete faith you’re headed for much success. Just look at all the comments and likes you receive post after post. And to have your book covered by fellow bloggers without even asking is wonderful!
I know what you mean about feeling dirty tho. I hate marketing and I didn’t want to constantly look at everyone I met as prey. I even had such a hard time accepting money for my book (and audio.) I desperately needed a distributor because any time someone asked to buy a copy I simply couldn’t take their money. So I ended up giving the books away. To this day I still feel self conscience when someone asks what my book is about. Who knew?
Hang in there!
I actually thought of you when I wrote this post, because I remember you saying how much you hated marketing. Didn’t you say you had a couple of boxes of your books laying around, because you didn’t want to face the idea of a new marketing scheme?
Yeah, it’s not easy, and I haven’t even started the face-to-face stuff, since I’m still waiting on the paperback. And then comes the business side, which I know nothing about. If they buy online or from my publisher, great. But if I want to get the book in local bookstores, it will be on consignment most likely. I don’t even know what percentage the store takes and what percentage I keep. Doesn’t that just set me up for business success?
Thanks for stopping by, Ann. I hope you’re doing well.
I apologize if you’ve already posted about this, but can’t your publisher get you into the stores? B&N? I created my own imprint and I was granted a Library of Congress number etc BUT because I am a “publisher” with only one title in print, I wasn’t able to get into the major distribution centers and therefore unable to get into B&N or, at the time, Borders. And the printer I used is just that … a printer … without distribution services. So I was screwed. But I thought you should be able to get on the shelf thru your publisher?
You know what irks me? B&N offers my book online, used. AND I googled my name last week and saw that a free download of my book is being offered again. I filed a complaint with the FBI for copyright violation! Keep an eye on that!
Yikes. I hope that turns out okay for you. How frustrating. And unethical.
Unfortunately, bookstores don’t carry POD books (since most don’t come with a buy-back option, which is often the limiting factor), and my publisher is very clear that they are an e-publisher first and foremost. Not all their authors choose to have a print option. But I wanted one, and thus, the onus is on me to get it into bookstores. But yes, B&N does sell it online. Would I love a bigger publisher? Absolutely. But this was to get my foot in the door. Hopefully I can improve my writing and snag an even more traditional publisher in the future. Then again, I’ve read articles by writers published by bigger publishing houses who STILL can’t keep their books in the stores. They just can’t compete with the Grishams and Pattersons and such.
It’s crazy isn’t it? It’s the same thing with the library, they can’t buy a copy directly from me, but I could donate a copy to be cataloged. After it was vetted and reviewed they accepted it, but it took me four years to get up the nerve to ask. LOL
I need staff!
Hang in there, Carrie. You never know and we have to try, right?
“You never know and we have to try, right?”—Ann, those exact words are what keep me going every day, working my way through these innately uncomfortable marketing moves. Well said.
i could not possibly imagine that you wouldn’t want to do the face to face marketing tactic…haha. one almost has to act like a car salesman of verbatim selling a cheap line after line or even having to wear that uncommon smile that’s sometimes is never comfortable in the public eye – would be for me. you mention family, and it’s funny because mine will like support you in a light hearted way, but in the end they are such methodical blue collar thinkers all of my stuff would probably make the trash as well. but the way i look at is that i like the separation from that kind of thinking. you have some good info up here that i’ll be checking out. hope you have a great day carrie.
Thanks, Don. And yes, I recognize that “uncommon smile” you’re talking about. The kind where at the end of the day your face hurts, and your psyche is exhausted. On the other hand, I’ve never done a booksigning before. Who knows? If people are interested in hearing about my book, maybe comfortable smiles won’t be so hard to conjure. Plus, my 12-year-old son is going to be my booksigning companion. He’s really good at magic tricks, and he can lure the kids over and keep them entertained. Probably the adults, too.
You have a great day as well!
You’re off to a flying start Carrie! If you can maintain the momentum I’m sure the buzz will skyrocket. Well done.
Well, I believe my Amazon ranking is nose-diving, so I look forward to getting the paperback out so I can start on local marketing: stores, newspaper interviews, etc. Oh, man, did I just say I look forward to that? Well, I’m being figurative, I guess. I literally quake at the thought.
-grin- Yes, you did say that! I think this is going to be like a trip to the dentist… never quite as bad as you think it’s going to be.
Try telling that to Dustin Hoffman in “The Marathon Man”…
(Great movie if you haven’t seen it. But warning–you might get a toothache.)
I haven’t seen that movie and… now I never will! Did I mention how much I /hate/ going to the dentist? -grin-
You and me both.
The thought of marketing is the one thing that makes me feel less pathetic when I realize that another year has dragged by without me finishing my novel. I don’t envy you at all, but at least I’ll have a pseudo-idea that I can rise above my own squeamishness for something I love if other people can. So, an encouraging and terrifying post at the same time, I guess.
If I can encourage and terrorize at the same time, then my job is done.
And don’t feel bad about another year dragging by. It took eight years to get to this point for me. Life has a way of interfering, doesn’t it? I wish you luck! Thanks for stopping by.
Don’t sweat too much, dear. You’re already a household name in Seattle.
Haha! That’s probably because my brother lives out that way.
But thank you for your kind words!
Been traveling all day and just noticed the shout-out to Reading Today – thanks! I’ve been toying with the idea of s possible post about the various ways that authors use Twitter and I have to say, I think you’re one of the few who gets it right. RT’s, maybe a mention, and otherwise engaging with others as a human. Too many Twits just push links to their books and reviews and that makes me less likely to engage. It’s just annoying. Thanks for sharing your journey and good luck with the next stages!
Thanks, Rebecca. I hear you on the Twitter thing. I love my lists, because that’s how I can maintain the fun interaction that I enjoy. I do follow those who are a bit more ‘enthusiastic’ about their marketing tweets, but honestly, I don’t open those lists very much. I always head to my lists of folks who I know will tweet something ripe for interaction. Like you.
I think you are doing just fine so far. I know that marketing your own book feels wrong, but how else are people going to know about it? I think as long as you don’t endlessly advertise your book on social media sites you are doing ok. Oh…and I want to interview you on my blog. Send me an email if you are interested. No reciprocation expected.
Thanks, Wendy! I really appreciate that. Both your encouragement regarding marketing and your offer to do an interview. I’ll send you an email. Lucky for you, I keep things short and sweet–I know how busy you are.
Busy-Shmusy….can always find a few minutes to help out a friend.
Okay, duh, I clicked the link on Amazon and your book sounds really cool. I like medical thrillers, although I’ll probably be worrying that I’m dying for a few weeks afterward.
Haha! Well, this is the best way to experience a deadly flu. But maybe wear gloves just in case…
Oh, wow, I’m right there with you. I haven’t actually sent anything to a publisher or tried the e-book route (people say don’t do it it’s horrible, no do it you will do great, no don’t do it – you see my problem here.) But the marketing does freak me out. I am not into tooting my own horn (though I joke like I do on my blog, it’s mostly tooting about having a badge made by a clown, so you know). I am also an introvert, and I think the majority of writers are, which makes the marketing thing even harder. I don’t envy you.
What is your book about? If I get a chance to read it and enjoy it (which I probably would since I love most bloggers I follow), I would be happy to write a review or help promote it for you. It might be nice to write a review of something that doesn’t suck like 50 Shades.
How nice of you to offer. It’s a medical thriller with a side of science fiction. You can click on my ‘novel’ page above if you’d like more info. And yes, no kinky sex or weird romance in it. Mostly death and disease.
My publisher puts out the e-book first and then a print-on-demand option later. The paperback should be out within the next week or two, but it would be easier to market if they were both out at once. But then again, once I have a hard copy, I have to start the face-to-face stuff. Yikes.
Thanks so much for dropping by my blog! I look forward to checking yours out tomorrow, but for now, I must go to bed. It will give me something to look forward to in the morning.
I downloaded the sample of your book to my Nook. I will have to take a look at it to recover brain cells from 50 Shades. Lol. I’m proud of you for being brave enough to put yourself out there! My blog is my first step toward that, and I’ve gotten some good response. So maybe.
Thank you! I appreciate that more than you know. I really hope you enjoy the book. It’s meant to be a quick, plot-driven read, not a Pulitzer-prize winning literary feast. But so far I’ve heard good things from readers, including men who are sometimes hesitant to read thrillers by women.
I still crack up about that tweet you sent where you send you put the promotional bookmark of the Seneca Scourge in a drawer at a hotel.
Yeah, right next to the bible. That’s gotta put an extra black mark or two next to my name…
It does sound like so much hard work! I hope you are still enjoying it, though! And I loved that someone pointed out that it was flu season! (whatever helps, ya know!)
Oh, yeah, I plan to use that flu season to my advantage (in fact, look at the title I chose for my side book widget).
Wow, Carrie! You have your work cut out for you. I can see why we marketing firms and publicists. That’s a full-time job. I wish you the best. I agree about Facebook and Linkedin. It’s hard to keep up with it all. Good luck!
Thank you. Yes, a publicist would be nice right about now. I’m kind of flying by the seat of my pants and hoping I’m going about it the right way.
Wow…I had no idea so much work went into getting a book out there. I’m exhausted just reading this!
Yes, and this is just the online marketing. I still have all the local and face-to-face marketing to do once I have the paperback.
Thanks for stopping by!
I’m so bad at marketing that they stopped asking me to do it at work. Wish I could say I planned it that way.
. Good luck!
Thank you! So I guess I shouldn’t hire you as a publicist, then?
Ha, uh no. But I will put your book in our waiting room…maybe next to the sign that tells people to wear a mask or go home if they are sick.
Haha. Yes, as a gimmick, I should hand out masks with my book during my booksignings.
Wow, you’ve got a lot of comments on this subject already but I want to bet none of these people come from a marketing background (the dark cave…). So here’s my expert marketing & PR advice/recommendations for you, for free because it’s only worth its price if you do something with it.
1) Continue doing everything you have already planned.
2) Make sure your book is available in paperback. Not everyone wants to read in e-format (I’m the kind…).
3) Think big. Then think bigger than that. Come on, you’re still thinking too small, keep going!
4) You have the PERFECT, yet tiny window of opportunity right now, with flu shot season. You have about 2 months to make the biggest impact, so do it now.
5) Contact your library (think big city, not small town branch) and ask for a book showing with issues to buy and sign. Librarians love promoting local writers. Also ask your library (and everyone of its branches) to carry your book and promote it on the shelf as a local author.
6) Contact your local radio and TV stations. I’m serious, do it! Not only your book is very timely with flu shot season, but you’re a medical professional and can discuss why flu shots are so important for all, not just the at-risk groups. It’s public service. Seriously, this is one of your very best ways to get your name and book out there. But you have to pick up the phone. Email will not be enough, but it’s good to start with it and follow up with a phone call.
7) Contact your local newspaper (big city Cleveland only) and the person in charge of new book reviews and ask them if you can send a copy of your book for review.
8) If your town/Cleveland is on Patch.com, contact the editor and ask them how you can get your book plugged in, again with the flu shot season promotion.
9) Aim higher and contact bigger websites, publications, TV stations, etc. Seriously, try it!
10) If you have medical office contacts, this may be a good way to plug in your book. If you have print copies for free from your publisher, you can ask medical offices to put the book on their shelves, so patients can read it while they wait. If they like it after a few pages, they may want to purchase it when they leave the doctor’s office.
11) I’m not sure how much traction you’re getting from Twister and see how many books you sold through your efforts. Unless you’re a super well known author, I’m not sure it will do a lot for you.
12) However I think you’re missing out on Facebook. With a Facebook page as an author, you can promote your book in many, many ways. You can plug in the page on other Facebook pages that are relevant, and other sites (better to direct people to your Facebook author page than just your blog, since you’ll focus only on your books). There you can quote small paragraphs of your book, post relevant info on flu shots, flu pandemics, so you can inform your FB fans and not just plug in your book constantly. What about that new virus similar to the avian flu that was discovered in Asia a few weeks ago? You can talk about that. It’s relevant to your book and it brings discussions.
This is all I can think of off the top of my head, but I’ll add more if anything pops up. Sorry for the long comment but I’m offering you the marketing insight and a fresh perspective. I know what it’s like when you’re so buried into something, you can see it from a distance anymore!
Thank you so much! Believe it or not, most of those things are on my marketing plan–I was going to talk about them when I write a post on the marketing process of my paperback. I don’t want to solicit any newspaper articles and such until the paperback is out. And I am planning on getting on Facebook. There’s only so much time in a day. I try to do at least two to three marketing-related activities a day, but as you know, everything takes time.
I appreciate your insights so much, and I’m thrilled to see I’ve already considered most of these things. Means I’m not too far off-base.
Glad to hear you’re working on these! And working on them a little every day is the best way, especially if you have limited time or resources. Facebook could be your best friend if you use it well. So are your local opportunities (TV, radio, libraries, etc). For all activities, you have to put yourself in the place of your audience, and what info they look for. It’s the hardest thing to do, thinking like your customer and not yourself. I have a potential client who needs help promoting his book and he’s shooting for huge PR, which will be hard to achieve because his book has been out for a year already. In the meantime, there are lots of smaller efforts that can be done but they don’t. Now is your primetime to do the big stuff, with the book being fresh and flu season. Just don’t get busy with the small stuff and save it for later. And yes, easy access to paperback is crucial if you want to go mainstream. Good luck and don’t hesitate to shoot me an email if you want to bounce some ideas around!
Thank you. I really appreciate that. Really, really.
Good luck, good luck, good luck! You’re doing it right.
Oh, and don’t do more with LinkedIn for book promotion. It’s a good place to be listed as an author and connect with others but it won’t sell your books for you.
I agree. The only thing I really do with it is participate in some of the group discussions (mostly the writer’s groups)–just for my own interest. There’s some good info there.
Carrie, I know it’s difficult but it’s what you have to do! Think of it as promoting your work, you’re not being a whore (smile) — that’s part of the reason why you wrote it, right? I’m like you about the Facebook thing though — I don’t know how people have time to do all these things. Have you heard of Constant Contact? Maybe that’s a way in which you can get the word out as well. I want to read your book. But I want to buy your book. I bought Sandee’s and I have Honie Briggs’ book as well. I’m going to check out the About Me thing. Sounds interesting and thanks for sharing all this for those of us who will publish their book “one day.”
I have not looked into Constant Contact. I will check it out. I’m open to anything that might help. Thank you!
To me, marketing seems like the opposite of writing since it can sometimes feel like you’re selling your soul (or used car).
I guess all we can do is somehow try to have fun with it and it seems like you’re doing that already. Once the paperback comes out, you could also just contact local newspapers and magazines and ask if they’d like to interview a local author for a feature article. If that would feel too weird, you could send press releases to them. I was always desperate for stories about anyone who lived in town and would get stories either through press releases or people calling up and telling me they did something exciting.
Thanks, Sheila. I will definitely contact local newspapers once I get the paperback. In fact, I could probably do this before the book is ready, but I’d hate there to be a delay. Luckily, I live in an area with lots of local newspapers.
Isn’t it fun to learn new things each day. I’m trying to learn how to do an invitation on-line and a political mailing. I’m so stuck. However, you (and I) will figure out these challenges. xoxoxox
Yes, I guess we’re never too old to learn new things, even though it sure feels that way to me sometimes.
Oh isn’t marketing the worst, be it selling a product, or selling yourself e.g. For a job. It looks like you are doing the right sort of things, not that I would really know, but erm, it looks like the right sort of things.
What happened to your hair in that second picture?
What? You don’t like the greasy, slicked-back look? Maybe I’ll go easier on the gel next time…
Yes, marketing is exhausting. I probably could be doing more.
I have a job but I need to find another one. I’ve been making half the money I used to make for a while because the economy tanked after I got this job, which I took when I was planning to live with my boyfriend. We would have shared expenses. This job is close to home and ideal for a day job, but I have to get back to the real world again.
So I’m looking. I say all I need is a good job to distract me from fantasies regarding my home made book
I appreciate hearing your tips Carrie! Thanks again…
I wish you well in the job hunting. I’m sure it’s tough right now. I’m so impressed that you manage to blog AND write fiction while working. It took me years to finally get my book in ready form. The job always got in the way.
My only advice is if you need to send someone a photo of yourself don’t mix up the photo of “you” as the used car salesman and the one of you on about.me. (The about.me is a great photo!)
Haha! Thank you–both for the compliment and for the wise advice regarding using caution in my photo selection.
The ‘sales’ look fits you good (although I’d drop the cigar…it’s a little tacky). You are doing great, and will knock ‘em dead when you do the store to store marketing in your community (I mean that in a good way).
Thank you! Have you done any book signings? Like I told Gina, when the time comes, I may shoot you an email for some advice.
And yeah, I should probably ditch the cigar. But I’ll keep the pink polyester.
No. I live in a black hole when it comes to book signings. I mean I’m the person authors hate because I’m too scared to even approach them when they want to be approached. My writing group tries to spur me to action, but they need more dig in their heels to inspire me to do such a terrifying thing. I am not who you want to turn to for marketing advice (except if you want to do nothing…then I’m your gal). I’m glad you’re keeping the pink poly. It makes you more approachable.
It’s a pity that the marketing is so onerous.
It really was a fun read. I hope the word of mouth pushes it out to the world, and Oprah comes a’callin.
Haha–well I don’t expect Oprah, but a little word-of-mouth would be nice. Thanks for the comment.
Marketing is truly the more horrible part of the gig. Looks like you’re doing everything right. Keep it up.
Thanks. I have a booksigning set up in New Hampshire next month (family out there) and am setting some up for here, too. I may email you for some advice when the time comes if you don’t mind.
I’ve only done one! I’m horribly, horribly bad at marketing!!! My advice…bring a pen! Smile. Talk.
You’ll do great!
My 12 year old is actually going to sit with me and do magic tricks to entertain the kids. Hopefully, that will undo some of the shyness–both for me and the customers.
You know, I put my extrovert face on and do just fine, but that’s honestly not what I have a problem with. My lack is in the area of trying to organize the book signings and promo events in the first place. I’m pretty much hoping they’ll call me…and er, uh, that ain’t gonna happen. So, good job on lining things up. You’re doing better than I am.
Carrie, I would think that you probably already thought of this, but I would be contacting the gift shops in the local hospitals in your area and see if they will carry the book. “Hometown Doc gives you something besides your own illness to worry about!” Anyway…they may take it since you are a doctor in the area. I am sure you are also contacting all the bookstores in the area (if there are any left). I know that our stores have a “Local Authors” department. Walgreens also carrys a whole section of local books….they even have book signings at the one near us!
Don’t be afraid of selling your book. It goes against the grain to promote yourself, but it does for all great artists! Look at Itunes or Rhapsody for Barbara Striesand’s song “putting it together” on her 1985 Broadway album (are they still called albums if they are on a digital site?) It tells the story of her attempt at getting the album made and even co-stars her producer, financier, and manager! Even she doesn’t like the promotional aspects!
But….you can’t let fear or unease get in the way. After all, if you aren’t going to sell your book…if you aren’t going to put it out there, then who is?
Kevin
Actually, I didn’t think of hospital gift shops. What a great idea! I am going to try the local drugstores, especially seeing as how they’re all giving flu shots. People can read my book while they wait.
This type of marketing will be easier once I have the paperbacks, of course. I already have a booksigning set up in New Hampshire actually, since I’m going out that way next month. I’m working with my local bookstore to get one here. Shouldn’t be a problem setting it up. The problem is finding the courage. But it must be done, so do it I will.
Thanks for stopping by and for sharing the idea of the hospital bookstores. We have plenty of hospitals around here.
Pink polyester. I’m in. … Marketing just drains me, and I’m not good at it. Sales dribble in, but if I would market and find my audience, I know I could do better. I honestly tell myself I will put more effort into it after the first of the year. I want to keep writing for now. You are covering your bases well, Carrie. I think you’re doing fantastic for just coming out of the gate.
Thanks, Maddie. I appreciate that coming from someone who’s “been there.” I wish I had someone next to me saying, “Okay, now do this, and then this, and then…” I suppose that’s what a publicist does, but it’s not as if we can all have one of those, particularly for a fiction book.
Bravo; welll done. You did your research well. I’d expect nothing less from you.
Advertising: you know I’ve seen some really sleazy James Patterson ads on my tv CONSTANTLY. Don’t do that. Please!
Hope the conference was a source of inspiration and practical applications. I thought about you several times this last week – and how dauntly the problem of childhood obesity must be for the medical community…and society…and healthcare costs…and parents…and the children. Sigh. – Nikki
Even if I wanted to advertise on TV, the cost would be prohibitive. Honestly, from what I’ve read, advertising books doesn’t yield much good unless you’re really targeting the right audience (say in a book forum for your book’s genre).
The conference was fabulous–thanks for asking. The Cleveland Clinic puts on a good show, and they had obesity experts from all over presenting the latest science. We even got to see two live weightloss surgeries via camera. Very cool!
I should point out the surgeries were on adult patients.
I definitely feel like we could easily spread ourselves too thin with our marketing plans. Especially if we’re not great at it, or if we don’t enjoy it.
I’d say to pick 3-5 venues where you are the most comfortable and devote as much time and energy as you can. I wouldn’t waste time with sites that you aren’t into, such as LinkedIn and Facebook. What’s the point, when really, they do the same job as your blog. Actually, I bet your blog does a better job than any of them because it has presence and personality.
I have never heard of about.me. Sounds a lot like Facebook, though. Is there a big difference between the two?
About.me is a place to set up a page of your info–I don’t think there’s much interaction. I never need to return there if I don’t want to. That being said, I think people can “compliment” your page or something like that, but I’m using it more as a convenient signature to my emails.
And I agree–stick to what seems the most effective. The problem is, I can’t track my book sales like an independent author can, so I don’t know what’s been most effective (though right now I know it’s my blog). It’s a bit intimidating going at this the first time around, but I’m learning a lot.
Thanks much for the advice. I appreciate it!
495 that’s a good deal for a used car. Does it run? It is a multifaceted project that’s for sure. Not just writing a book in the quiet sancuary of your abode. How about radio? That’s one way to talk to lots of people at once without a lot of hand shaking. When I hear an author on the radio and they give a blog address I often check out their blog. I know marketing can be stressful. before you know it you will be back at your computer pounding out your next book. I guess I would say make sure you plan for down time to rest between gigs.
Yeah, I haven’t had much downtime lately, but I did take some time yesterday to enjoy the fall colors and see a movie with the hubby.
I might consider radio, but I want to wait until the paperback is out. Some people prefer a more tangible product.
Thanks, Starla!
That’s true nothing like a paper book or hard cover in hand. It’s been a difficult transition for me getting use to Ebooks.
I’m glad you were able to have some down time and R and R. I know that helps me when I have to deal with a lot of people in person.
I actaully listen to a fair amount of radio. I think it’s not a bad way to market somthing. I will keep posted on your progress. Enjoy the ride
Thanks, Starla!
Your Welcome Carrie :+)
I’m afraid I have no advice or wisdom for how to do marketing, but have you stocked up on Xanax for all the public appearances you’ll eventually need to make?
There you go. Nothing like getting a reputation as the drugged-out author. I like it.
Carrie, we all hate marketing ourselves! My advice? Choose 2 or 3 platforms that you’re comfortable with and put your focus there. Ignore things you don’t like to use (or don’t know how to use well). Yes, there will be people you won’t reach, but who wants to spend time on something if it feels like a chore (listen up, Google +).
So true! I guess I didn’t mention I also have a Google + account, but I use it even less than LinkedIn. But hey, if someone wants to hook up with me there, I’m willing.
Thanks for stopping by, Tamara!
Awesome post! Only I do the reverse … I’m the salesman selling before the product is out. I’ve nothing to sell – I write for fun, but I dabble in all these social networks, thinking about all these little “marketing” skills I should know by the time I need to sell something… only, I still haven’t got anything to sell
All the best with your book!
Thank you! And you’re doing it the right way. One should always start the marketing process well before a product’s release. I’m so glad I had built up a blog following beforehand, or I wouldn’t have had any takers at all.
Thanks for stopping by and commenting!
Brilliant blog. well done and thanks. heeded
x
Thank you! I appreciate you stopping by.
Yes, it’s the side of things most of us hate isn’t it. With the magazine articles I write, I keep telling myself I need to contact lots of other magazines to try and sell my services, but I just find it so hard to do!
I’ve been observing a lot how Jennifer Eaton and the rest of the authors on the Make Believe anthology are doing it, and they seem to have it sorted! It must help when there are several authors; they can all work together on the promotion and marketing, and if they don’t like bigging themselves up, they can big each other up instead! I think they’re doing it in a way that is making people get excited about the book coming out, rather than making people feel they are being sold to, and that’s the way to do it isn’t it.
Yes, definitely. One wants to make readers look forward to something, not feel as though they’re getting it shoved down their throats.
By the way, congrats on winning the $10 Amazon gift card! You’re full of winning lately–you better play Powerball this week. I haven’t been over to Char’s site yet, but I see she sent me an email that you were one of the winners. I’ll email you a gift card later today.
Yes, thank you very much! I had already planned a blog post for tomorrow about the lucky winning streak I’m on, when this win came in today!
Carrie,
Sounds like you’re doing a great job. Marketing is so difficult. I’m looking for a full-time job right now, and I seriously work it into every conversation with EVERY SINGLE person I know. I feel the need to take a shower afterwards. ; )
From what I hear from my fellow writers who have published with major publishers, even their marketing assistance is fairly feeble. One of them did say that a half-page ad in something like People magazine was a big help. I think there are maybe a handful of major authors who get the big endorsements and serious marketing support, but you are not alone… writers have to toot their own horns. Go, Carrie!
“I feel the need to take a shower afterwards.”—-Oh, don’t I know the feeling?…
Thanks, Anne. And you’re right–even though I have a small publisher, the marketing onus is entirely on me. But as you point out, that may be the case for authors signed by bigger publishers as well. But I knew that going into this. I’ll feel better once the paperback is ready. Then I’ll look into advertising, at least in a local newspaper where the costs aren’t as great.
I’d write you a review but I am not even sure what your book is called and where to get a readers copy
My book is over in my sidebar there and on my static page labeled ‘Novel.’ It’s called The Seneca Scourge. It’s a medical thriller with a bit of science fiction, so I don’t know if that’s your thing or not, but if it is, I’d be happy to send you a $5.00 Amazon gift card so that you could download the Kindle version. But if that’s not the type of book you typically review, no worries. But so nice of you to offer.
no I’d love to do a review for you … and I read just about anything and review so much more. Don’t have a Kindle but could read it on screen (or print it out in work ahem )
You can download a free Kindle for PC at http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html/ref=kcp_pc_mkt_lnd?docId=1000426311. It’s nice to have it directly on a laptop (there’s also a download for Macs at http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&docId=1000464931). Check out the book on Amazon. If you think you’d like to read and review it, email me at carrierubin1@gmail.com, and I’ll send a gift card to your email address.
thanks
Marketing is funny like that (in the cigars and polyester sense). I think you’re in the places you need to be and I liked the contacting your school idea. They’re always looking for updates!
Although, I’m sure my old schools are rolling their eyes considering I’ve rarely given updates before…
At least you aren’t the one updating them with every single thing you’ve ever done!
Good point! Maybe they’re actually relieved.
I’m here to learn from you! It seems you’ve got the bases well-covered, but I totally understand that sleazy feeling. We introverts are not good at marketing ourselves, are we. But even the biggest publishers make the authors do most of that work these days. I’m not looking forward to it….
My husband is now reading The Seneca Scourge and enjoying it very much.
Part of the problem is I feel like I’m going at this all alone. I’m not talking about lack of support from fellow writers and bloggers–as you know, that is phenomenal. Honestly, I don’t know where I’d be without them. I’ve shot off some emails to other published authors, and their responses have been so helpful. But I’m talking more about going at this alone despite have a small publisher. I’m sure they’re doing some things on their end, but I’m not getting a guiding hand in marketing. I knew that going into this–my hope was to just get my foot in the door–but it’s not always easy to know if one’s doing the right thing or not. So far, my publisher has answered all my questions, but the onus for marketing is on me. The good news is, my learning curve is steep, and I love that. I love learning new things, no matter what the field.
As for your husband reading the book, that’s wonderful! I’m pleased to hear men are enjoying it. I tried to make it a gender-neutral book. My brother-in-law just finished it and called me to say he was surprised by its content and really liked it. Thanks for passing it on to the man in your life. And tell him to feel free to spread the word.
This article was in the Washington Post this weekend.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/arts-post/post/jon-clinch-self-publishing-thief-of-auschwitz/2012/10/04/0d13214e-0dc5-11e2-bb5e-492c0d30bff6_blog.html
The author actually did his first two books with Random House, but they really didn’t come through on marketing for him. He went indie for the third book under a pen name. So here’s someone who had one of the biggest presses out there handling his books and the marketing was … meh.
But tweeting is what worked for him!
Interesting read–thank you for linking to it. I’m sure it’s not what publishers want to hear.
Marketing is brutal, and I’m not sure what works best. (Same as most authors, if they’re honest.)
Very true. And what I’m finding most frustrating is the fact that it leaves little time for writing my next project. I need to find a better balance, that’s for sure.
Thanks so much for stopping by and commenting!
Yeah, it definitely steals time, and takes us out of our comfort zone.
One thing I forgot to mention is that I do try to comment on articles appropriate to my genre. So, in my case, I’ll try to comment on some articles in military magazines.
I think Joe Konrath called this the “leaving crumbs around the internet” strategy. It has led to some hits on my blog, but I have no way of knowing if it led to sales. But, I’ll take exposure as a start! : )
That’s a great idea. Like I said, I’ve left comments on forums, but I haven’t scouted out online magazines. I’ll have to think of some that might house fans of medical thrillers. Thank you!
Yeah, with the forums, it seems you’ll often read that newcomers who show up who are selling anything (even though they’re not mentioning it) are kept at a distant and never really trusted. At least, that’s been my experience.
That’s true. Luckily, I’d already been a member on these forums, and I think by actively participating, people’s distrust dissipates. I’ve actually noticed quite a few blog hits from those sites. Whether that means they’re checking out my book or not, I don’t know.
You’ve got looks going for you, too, which never hurts! : )
Ha! Well, I guess JC Penny’s did a better job with my author head shot than I thought. (Yes, I’m cheap–I went with JC Penny’s. Taking photos is not a fun thing for me. Didn’t care to pay $600 for the process.) But thank you.
Wow. Yeah, they nailed it, and I wouldn’t tell another soul where you had them taken! No one will ever know.
Too late. I already wrote a blog post on it: http://carrierubin.com/2012/07/16/help-a-girl-out-with-her-author-headshot/
That was a hilarious post, and wow did you get a reaction. Loved this line: “Kind of like scheduling a rectal exam.”
As we say in the South, I reckon you can write.
Thank you. Yes, this is definitely not a serious blog. Well, some of the topics are serious, but the delivery usually isn’t.
http://authorlorilotto.wordpress.com/2012/09/20/kdp-select-came-through-for-me-this-time/
The above link is from my friend’s blog (like, from high school friend). I have NO IDEA what she’s talking about, but I bookmarked it for the future. Maybe it can help you in someway?
Thanks for that link. I appreciate it! But I’m not self-published, so KDP Direct doesn’t apply to me. But other blog readers may find that article very useful. I’ve certainly heard plenty about the program through my various readings. Thanks for another good resource.
That’s good to know. As you can tell, you are miles ahead of me. Thanks for paving the way!
Unfortunately, my paved road is likely to be a bit rocky.
Yeah, I’ve got nothing. Just call me humble dolt.
Nothing wrong with that.
Advertising: a phone-tree…good for the introvert…make only one call….
Geez, Carrie…I’m so baaad. Sorry….
*snort*
XXOOOX
I don’t know what a phone-tree is. That shows you how much I communicate via telephone…
My humour: LOST…
Phone-tree explained (loosely):
Make a list (five-ten long) of people/phone #s.
YOU call the first person on the list.
The 1st person on list calls the second person.
The 2nd person calls the third.
The 3rd person calls the fourth.
Need I go on…..?
Is it Friday, already?
Okay, dimwit here finally gets it (I usually eventually do…). They do phone trees at my kids’ school for class trips and such. I guess I’ve kind of done the e-mail-tree thing…
I’d say we (you and I..or is it me?) are equals in the dimwit department…..me for other things well beyond the phone-tree explanation. ..enough said.
Well, misery likes company…
Best of luck with the marketing – must be a whole new crazy world for ya! As for Facebook – it is a better medium for “media-heavy” communication. So say if you’ll be using some photos or videos to promote the book you’ll benefit more from Facebook, for sure!
That’s good to know–thank you. I’ve been so hesitant to join Facebook, because I’m worried about the time suck. But I know I need to do it. Perhaps I could put on a Seneca Scourge Gangnam Style video…
If that doesn’t land you tens of millions of views, I don’t know what will
It should net a lot of comments too–all of them demanding I take the video down.
Heheheee I wouldn’t be so sure. Internet is a funny and bizarre place – who know what the crowd will be into on any given day?
*knows (OCD, sorry)
I prefer the term ‘conscientious’ to OCD or perfectionist. It makes us sound so much more lovable.
This is true, but I’m pretty sure the crowd will never be into me hitting it Gangnam style…
i am very nervous, because i am about two or three chapters a way from my first book being finished. then i can’t find anyone to tell me what i do with it next. i just have a pile of pages here of a book untouched. i have no idea. someone must have to check over the words etc, then how do i get a cover on the book to make it look anything similar to a book, then what, try to put it on amazon? i wish someone would reach out to me. my book is not so good that i am going to score the market, so that should not b the reason for not helping. so now i am reaching out to you. i have a goal, just to see my name on a book before i die. i am not out to get rich. god never wanted me to be rich. lol
Hi Terry. There are plenty of blogs and other websites out there that can answer your questions far better than me. I’m still a newbie myself. Just Google your particular question–I’m sure you’ll find what you’re looking for. Or, check out the websites I have listed under my “Writing Resources” widget. Good luck!
thanks Carrie! I have saved your blog so I can refer back to your references. I wish you the best of luck also!!!! You are a great writer!
Thank you!
Marketing is so hard. It looks like you’re doing everything you can do. I am going to check out your links and the about.me. Thanks for these tips, great post (as always). Loved the after photo!
Yes, this marketing thing has got me smoking cigars and wearing pink polyester…
The about.me site is pretty nice. Gives people a quick reference about you. I may still play around with mine, but at least I got it started.
Thanks, Lynn. Glad you found something useful!