I've been working with authors for over twelve years. It's amazing to me how many authors seek me for design and marketing services right before or after their book has been released. The days of getting by without an online presence have clearly been over for several years now. Whether you are a traditionally published or self-published author, daydreaming about your bestseller is not an option. As soon as you have a release date, it’s time to get down to the business of book promotion. This could mean starting six to nine months out preparing and generating buzz.
Now I don't know too many authors who have a tremendous amount of free time to devote to marketing. Most still work nine to five jobs, raise families and are involved in community activities. Even if there is an opportunity to write full-time, many authors supplement their income by providing services like editing, teaching or speaking. Time management is essential.
Many authors are often confused about how social media plays a role in their book promotion. With over 900 million users, I think it is safe to say most authors know about and have Facebook profiles and/or fan pages. But it is relatively easy to waste time on Facebook (or any social media) OR take what I call the “car salesman” approach of marketing your book (alienating people).
The importance of utilizing social media is to build relationships. Before my debut novel, When Rain Falls, was published March 2012, I had spent years as a book reviewer and a blogger. Those relationships I built over the years via social media with other reviewers and bloggers proved to be a great benefit to me when it came time to seeking influencers for my book. So, as you figure out what social network to join or which one to spend your time as a part of your book marketing plan, keep in mind the main goal is to build relationships.
In the next few blog posts, I will introduce or remind you about social media platforms you should consider for your book marketing efforts. I will also share tips on how to not only build relationships, but how to engage potential readers and spread your platform message.
This blog post was excerpted from 5 Social Media Platforms Authors Should Explore. You are welcome to download a FREE copy from DIYwithTy.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Tyora Moody is an author and entrepreneur. Her debut novel, When Rain Falls, was released March 2012. The second book in the Victory Gospel Series, When Memories Fade, will be released in March 2013. She is a member of Sisters in Crime and American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). Visit the author online at TyoraMoody.com.
