Book marketing has changed over the last decade. Now more then ever authors are involved in marketing their books. Publishers can pull out all the stops to make first-time authors true success stories, but the author's involvement is the most important piece of the marketing puzzle.
Authors who are interested in publishing with Lucid Books often ask what they can start doing now to help sell books in the future. We always give the same advice to every author: start a blog.
Authors should create a blog focused on the content in their book. It seems like everyone has a blog these days, but few are focused. Authors can build a following by creating content, getting feedback, and more. Below are some of the questions we are often asked about blogs.
What is a blog?
Technically it is shorthand for a weblog. It can be anything you want to be, but is best used as a forum to share your work.
How do I start a blog?
Two great sites that will get you on your way for free are Blogspot and Wordpress.
When should I start a blog?
The best day to start a blog is at least three years before your book comes out. The second best day is today.
How often should I post?
You should post regularly, though daily is not neccesary. You want to post short articles regularly and try to have a longer piece at least once every couple of weeks.
How do I attract readers to my blog?Tell your friends and family about it, comment on other blogs, and give the search engines time to pick up the content you are adding.
More Tools for Writers:
Mind Maps
Thinkertoys
The Maker's Schedule
Speed Reading Tips
Outsourcing Your Memory
When connecting the blog to the project, how much focus would you recommend? For instance, if the project is a western fiction novel, would it be sufficient to write a blog on the history of the American West? And, do you recommend mentioning the book project on the blog?
ReplyDeleteFor an author who focus on fiction, you can focus on yourself and the book. For instance, if you are writing a western fiction book, you could add posts about the American West, links to sites that have helped your study, links to other blogs, books, and authors that others should check out. You can also focus on yourself by posting other writing you have done, biographical posts, and your thoughts on current events. Posting sample chapters can be a great tool for fiction authors to expand their audience and get instant feedback on their work from people who are already interested in it. You can also use the blog to test ideas for your next book, build a following, and ultimately sell people on you as an author.
ReplyDeleteAnd yes, definitely mention the book project.
Excellent advice, as always. Thank you!
ReplyDelete