A lot of authors find it hard to promote their books properly. They feel that there are too many resources available in the Internet vacuum. So, their creations get lost and they give up and (sometimes) complain. Today, I want to focus on what authors need to do to be successful in the long run.
1) Use Twitter
Twitter is a fantastic tool. Its 140-character limit forces users to condense their thoughts. The message has to be short, to the point, and effective. So, it is perfect for interaction and teasers. But, use it with moderation when it comes to promotion.
2) Use Facebook
Facebook provides great marketing tools through Fan Pages and Groups. They cannot replace a personal website, but at least, they allow you to interact with your fans and update them on news and products. You can share pictures, notes, and links of interest.
3) Be professional
I have stressed it many times: professionalism is key! The way you portray yourself will dictate your long-term success. Remember that Twitter and Facebook are social tools. When you press “send”, your message will be saved for ever, even if you delete it! So, make sure that you are genuine. After all, you have now been upgraded to the rank of “public figure”.
Watch your language and avoid drama at all costs. Also, interact with people. You must set aside at least fifteen minutes each day to reply to private messages and comments. Go the extra mile to make others feel special.
4) Avoid over promotion
One big mistake authors make is to bombard people with the same messages over and over again, thinking that they will get noticed. I have bad news for you: it does not work! You are not the center of people’s world. They do not care about you; they just care if what you bring to the table will benefit them.
With Twitter, I usually apply the following rule: one promotional tweet per 8-10 messages. Facebook is a little different. I use specific Fan Pages to promote my books and my CD more heavily. On my profile, I share general information, quotes, and resources that people can use for other purposes.
5) Check your typos!
“Chk my new book! U won’t be dissappointed! I rote it ‘cuz I wantid to share my herat with u!” This tweet, I read a long time ago. Would you buy this book? I certainly would not; I cannot even imagine what the inside would look like!
By definition, a writer is a person who masters the language in which he or she writes. If you consider yourself a writer, how come your message has more typographical errors than a sixth-grader’s? Typos happen. However, when you boast about your writing skills, at least ask someone to proofread your promotional messages. You will be taken a little more seriously, that way…
6) Conclusion
It is one thing to use social tools like Twitter and Facebook, but quite another to use them well. Your ultimate goal is to leave a positive mark on people’s minds. So, be patient, do your research, use common sense, and continue working hard and smart. ;-)
Now, would you share some of your tips for a successful book promotional campaign?
Think outside the box. Book reviewers are all fine and dandy, but think where people would go for your type of information. Even in the case of some fiction, there are related topics. For instance, Dan Brown writes about religious topics in his novels, and also about interpretations of famous works of art. Are their blogs or magazines dealing with these topics? Of course. OK, so what about your book? What are the topics and where are people reading about those topics?
Absolutely, David!