Friends ‘Til The End
Selling books is about much more than a simple transaction. It’s about building community, loyalty, and consistency. It’s also about cultivating (and maintaining) relationships with readers.
Social media has great platforms you can use that all cater to slightly different media types and users. Your newsletter and blog are the best ways to talk directly to your subscribers. And in-person events are all about those real-life connections.
Be present and authentic when you engage on social media. Share regular updates about your writing process, inspirations, daily life, and other writer-centric events. Do keep it professional as much as you can, you never know when an agent or other literary professional might see your profile and want to collaborate.
Offer exclusive reader-centric content to your newsletter subscribers. You could share behind-the-scenes, sneak peeks, deleted scenes, and short stories that only your subscribers get to read. You can also include writing tips, book recommendations, and personal updates (if you feel comfortable). Create conversations by asking for responses to questions or polls.
Build your community by going above and beyond. Highlight your followers and thank them. If someone created character art or other things inspired by your book, definitely share that (with their permission). Consider dedicating chapters or content to fans or including them in acknowledgments. Ask for feedback! They are your biggest fans, but they also probably have opinions. See what they say, it might help you out.
Most importantly, be yourself! Readers, followers, and subscribers are going to be more likely to engage with your content if you are genuine. You are wonderful and unique, author. Be sure to share that with the world.
