We’re talking about Marketing your novel the easy way. Last week established author Danielle Ackley McPhail told us…
I was lucky enough to hear her elucidate, but it really made me think about my own experiences… and I realised that she’s absolutely right.
Let’s dig a little deeper into that thought.
I have personally read several Romance novels recently. I don’t like Romance Novels. Why did I read them? I’ve cyber-met the authors, and we “chat” on Twitter, email, or through my blog. They are Cyber-Friends, and I wanted to see their work (Now I am trying to convince them to blow a few things up to make their novels more exciting.) But did I buy their novels? Yes!
On the flip side… if I am having trouble writing a kiss (with bombs going off in the background) I can ask them for some guidance. They don’t like explosions, but might they become interested in my work? Hmmmm. Maybe.
Recently, I contacted an author, and asked her some questions. I told her I’d read her book. She never asked me if I liked it. We just chatted. Now we are cyber-friends. Will I buy her next novel?
Yep. I sure will. She didn’t push her book… she just marketed HERSELF. I am not sure she even realized what she was doing… She was just being NICE.
Ya hear that? NICE.
It’s easy to do that on the internet. We can think about what we write, and edit if we sound stupid. How about in person?
We’ll chat about that next Friday.
Jennifer M Eaton 
Internet / cyber connections are wonderful but it sounds to me getting back to person-to-person connections / townhall meetings isn’t a bad thing–it seems to work. Even touching behind the screen, we like to be ‘real’ to each other and connect.
In my world, vacumn salesmen, salesmen of pots and pans, carpets, etc. went from door-to-door (cold connection). Because they were personable and took the time to MAKE a connection, a personal connection, guess what? They got the sale. It wasn’t only because housewives were bored. They could not spend money without the consent of their (working-bringing in the bacon) breadwinners but their ‘vote’ counted. Again, is history repeating itself. Maybe?
I wonder if the old ways are the new ones again. The easy non-invasive approach.
“The non-evasive approach”. That’s actually a great way to look at it. So many people are afraid of everything. Connection makes them less afraid.
That is brilliant. I’m not much for pushing any product–mine or someone else’s. Bits of chatting once in a while feels much more comfortable.
Sure! If you are in a bookstore, saunter over to the secion where your book is. Say “Hi, I was just wondering what kind of books you guys read” When they ask why, say “I’m an author”
Chances are, they’ll walk out with your book.
I’m definitely not a ‘salesman’. When I’m in the bookstores for book signings, it’s really hard for me to grab people and try to convince them they need to buy my books. Most of the time it’s hard enough to catch their eye! I have created a three-sided card stock poster to put on the table to catch a reader’s attention who will, with any luck, ask me a question about my books. I feel uncomfortable going on Twitter or Facebook and constantly say, ‘Buy my books!’ I find it so much easier to advertise someone else’s books. Will sharing other people’s work help out with my book sales? Only time will tell, I suppose. 🙂
I am not a firm believer in Twitter yet, although I do use it. I think other people promoting your book DOES help, especially if it is in the form of a really good review.
The bookstore thing is tough. I think the problem is that people are as embarrassed to talk to you as you are to try to get a sale. Ya know?
Best advice ever! I love it when I meet an author in person or online and we just talk about anything and everything. It might include our work, but it isn’t based on writing. Sure makes being friends that much more fun.
Yes! It is amasing how easy it is to be friendly. And sometimes that’s all it takes.
Nice is best, especially when shared. 🙂
🙂
You’re absolutely right. Nice pays. It can’t be said often enough.
Yeah unfortunately some people make a living out of being mean too. I don’t get it
Interesting thought! It’s one of those “why didn’t I think of that?” moments. 🙂
Totally! It’s so simple.
I buy books this way too. It’s a great way to find new authors.
Good to know. Thanks.
Enjoyed the post and it makes perfect sense.
I’m glad you enjoyed it Stephanie!
Great advice! And great writing style too!
Thank you! I hope it helps.
I published four books so far, fifth in print – and i couldn’t agree with you more… It’s also up to one’s nature though, and patience too. 😉
Absolutely! Patience is not my strong suit though so I’ll do almost anything to speed things up
Oy, Jennifer, you are talking to a Gemini… i hear you! 😉 With me it’s like with that guy who was praying to God to give him patience… RIGHT NOW! 😉 I am glad we cyber-met!
Good luck Ruth!
Well said