Over the last few days/weeks I’ve been pondering self-promotion and the best ways to go about it. Even though I have a publisher behind me and my upcoming books (NineStar Press check them out here) I’m going to have to do a lot of work myself (and I’m okay with that). Still, there is a line between promoting your work and basically being that annoying person who shouts, “buy my book” or whatever all the time. For me, the key is having a good mix of promotion, content and finding what works then ditching what doesn’t. That way you don’t feel like you’re out selling your soul to everyone who walks by.
The internet is a great resource at finding ideas and suggestion. Here are just a few I came across and liked (I won’t be doing everything but I plan on mixing it up):
Not everything is going to work out and sure I’ll be banging my own drum to get people to notice me, but I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that, as long as I don’t become an annoying crow about it (please let me know if I do).
For me, my current plan is to focus on Twitter, Facebook and Goodreads. Also, I’ve talked to friends and families who are going to help spread the word. I’ve joined various genre groups. A press release is in the works as are Facebook ads. I’m working on engaging people and getting folks excited about my upcoming book releases. There are three scheduled over the next few months (two short stories, The Reunion and A Dragon for Christmas, and one novel, The Calling). Additionally, several people have been contacted and asked to read my ARC for, The Reunion, and provide reviews for the release day. One, thing I’m doing and I’m finding surprisingly helpful are author interviews on various blogs. I’ve picked up some great new fans and I’ve been continuing to engage them.
How will all this effect book sales and my efforts at self-promotions? I’m not sure yet, but it can’t hurt. I guess what it all boils down to is getting out there (whatever that means) and being seen. As I move closer to my book release days, I will let you know how things go.
I would love to hear what your thoughts are. If you’re a writer please share, if you’re a reader please tell me what you like and don’t like about self-promotion. As always have a great week.