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Tuesday 23 April 2013

How to Get the Word Out

Part of my job, as an author, is to talk about my books and get the word out about my books and generally find ways to make readers aware of my books. Of course, there's a polite way to do this and there's an obnoxious way to do this. No one wants to listen to the person who does nothing but tweet their book release date or quotes from their book and NOTHING ELSE.

So in this post, I'm going to touch briefly on what I personally feel are the most effective ways of getting the word out (online). I'm basing this not just on my own efforts but mostly on the methods other authors have used that have successfully caught my attention and, more importantly, my interest. I'm going to keep it short and sweet because I think most of these are self-explanatory.

1. Contests and/or giveaways
I think human beings have an innate competitive streak. Also an innate fondness for goodies. Free stuff is always a winner. I've entered a giveaway in the past and gone on to explore the author's other work.

2. Glimpses into the process
Interesting, funny and honest peeks into the process of writing a book or working on a character always get me interested. And if the glimpse is particularly cool or funny, I will remember the author and the book.

3. Blogging
Fairly obvious, I suppose. But I think blogs also have to be fun places to be. If a blog reader enjoys coming back again and again to read your posts, chances are they'll think they will enjoy your books too. I know I do.

4. Tweets or posts about popular things
This isn't actually about self-promotion, nor should it be, but I often find I remember tweets and authors who talk about things I love - or hate!

And me? What's my favourite way of getting the word out about my stuff? Well, I just shamelessly post cute photos like this one...



Writers, how do you get the word out? Readers, what captures your attention best?



11 comments:

  1. He could be your secret weapon at book signings - send him around the store with a sign that says "Please buy my mom's book."

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    1. I know! He's even got that puppyish begging look down!

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  2. One look at that face and who wouldn't buy the book! So cute.

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  3. The picture works well. :)

    I like number two. Finding out about the way they write or the inspiration for the book allows us to build a little connection with the author. It's something we'll remember.

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    1. Exactly how I feel about it! That connection is so important.

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  4. I agree with everyone else. Just send him out to promote your books!

    I do like your other tips though.

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  5. This is such a helpful post and I love that you've got the world's cutest supporter at the end of it :) I agree with you about contests and giveaways. Sometimes, when all an author does is promote their work, my eyes start to glaze over. There's an interactive component that always helps.

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  6. The Lost Girl..I must heard it before! I have to check this out.

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  7. Oh My Gosh!!!Your son is just so adorable!

    I tend to like books that are 'different'! Which is why The Lost Girl has caught my attention. Covers also play a large part. I like artistic or creepy-ish covers.

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