Finishing up the proof for “Sole Survivor-I Win” is both sad and relieving at the same time. At this point, I believe most of Patrick John “Stanley McShane” Rose’s quality manuscripts, paintings, and poems have been integrated into his posthumously published works.
Once released, which is hoped by the middle of June, comes the hard part–the part still being pressed almost daily on all the publications–marketing and promotion.
While it seems that most of the hints and ideas I’ve read have been incorporated, it’s still an uphill battle, as I’ve alluded to before on this blog.
1. Does it really help to have a blog or is it just adding to the write pile? With life constantly getting in the way, it seems difficult to impossible to be as active as recommended.
- The twitter thing–millions are using it to their advantage. It is commonly supposed to be a productive back alley into contacts and communications with interested, supportive persons and I have to admit, I’m getting a new follower most every day and sometimes more depending on the recent flurry of activity. It seems more a self-promotion vehicle than a valid list of fans and I suspect most of us just don’t have the time to follow through.
- #Book trailers–caveat here is to view hundreds of them to determine what presents a quality piece of professional work. Take a hard look at your submission as an amateurish book trailer is worse than none. I like this one by #Oak Anderson, author of “Take One With You“. Short and sweet!
- Run special promotions–then announce it through all your established social mediums from email contacts to Goodreads and Facebook friends. Unless you pay big bucks, don’t expect anyone to find your special.
- Appear at book signings, craft fairs, or public events. Search for a new book signing venue or related events in which you may participate.
- Learn how to use #hashtags and other appropriate tags in your communications, especially through twitter.
- Utilize pictures and quotes. Drawn to interesting pictures? The ones you must linger upon–those are the ones to post. How do you rate the above? Keep the momentum of your name moving.
- Read, read, read! Support and promote other authors, post reviews. Register for book-loving websites, author communities, get involved.
- Gain a few good buddy authors who’ll reciprocate reviews, forewords, and help promote your publications. #Michael Reisig, author of the “Caribbean Gold“ series, has done that for me in the form of a beautifully written Foreword for “Sole Survivor”.
- Create #infographics–they are a proven interest draw.
- Link your blog, twitter, and social accounts to appropriate websites such as Goodreads and LinkedIn.
- Join like-minded author organizations or groups who are out beating the bushes and holding target rich events. Check for a local #MeetUp.
You only THOUGHT writing the book was the tough part–now the job really begins!
Rosepoint Publishing 