10 Tips Every Author Should Know

My book is published, now what?

Ever since my first novel, Three, published in September, my mind has been going nonstop with book promotion and understanding my audience.

As someone who likes to stay private, the promotion side of the author environment has been very difficult for me. Before my novel, I wasn't one to post things on social media all of the time—I'd grab my news from my Instagram feed, admire the latest fashion trends, and praise my friends for how amazing their pictures are.

Low-key is how I'd like to describe my social media presence. But of course, like any brand or organization, you have to put yourself out there.

Bashful Beginnings

I used to be such a shy kid. Public speaking wasn't something I was a fan of. However, towards the end of middle school my parent's forced me to do theatre arts—I was terrified at first, but slowly I began to gain some confidence.

Although I credit my middle school theatre teacher for helping me get out of my comfort zone, the nature of who I am is a shy, quiet, and reserved girl. For those that know me right now, you may laugh at this. But for those that knew me when I was younger, you can connect the dots and understand where I am coming from.

So naturally, putting myself out there for my book release parties and interviews has been tough. But on the bright side, everything has turned out even better than I expected.

Strategic Tips

Because I don't have a publicist, I have to get creative with my marketing strategy as an author. Here are a few tips I would recommend to any author that doesn't have a publicist—or anyone in general that is chasing their dream.

1. Set a goal. Map out a clear goal of what you're trying to achieve in the publishing world. I have been very transparent about my journey and the rejection I've received, but I never lost sight of my goal of becoming a published author. Not just Amazon self-publishing, but a book that came from a recognized publishing house. Don't forget, you can have multiple goals when it comes to publishing. Maybe it's to have your book translated into Spanish (That's my next goal!) or to finish writing your second book before 2023. Whatever it is, clearly map it out and don't give up.

2. Claim your social media accounts and domain name. As someone who doesn't like social media, this was tough. But this step is important when creating your brand. Align your social media and website name with yourself—you are the brand so make sure you are visible to your audience. Also, make sure your social media accounts aren't private—making your accounts public will reach a greater audience.

3. Identify your audience. What audience are you writing to? This is important for your strategic plan. Identify the genre of your novel and what audience best aligns with it. Look at books that closely align with the genre of your novel and see the type of audience those authors have. You can do this by visiting Goodreads or Amazon and scrolling through reviews from readers.

4. Embrace your network. You meet so many people in your life and you're bound to make meaningful connections that can help you in the future—always make good impressions because you never know when you may need to connect with them again. That's how I landed my San Antonio Living interview with Shelley Miles—who knew that as an intern I would be a guest on her show 10 years later? Again, embrace your network and keep networking!

5. Budget your ideas. Not all promotion requires money, but if you want to boost your engagement on social media, it's something to consider. Don't go overboard creating ads, but there are instances where it can be helpful. If it aligns with your goals and fits within your budget, consider paid promotional opportunities on social media. But please, please, please beware of scams!

6. Create smart content. The key is in the content. You can make time to market and promote yourself all you want, but if your product lacks in quality, it will not do well. Have your publisher and editor take a look at your story after all the edits have been made—and don't stop there! Reach out to your friends or family for a fresh opinion—but don't get so caught up in opinions that you lose sight of your story! Again, the quality of your novel is pertinent. Also, follow the trends on social media and create a social media strategy that works best for you—this can be tough, but worth it. Start following other authors that closely align with the genre of writing you do—it's a creative way to pop up on other people's social media feeds and make new connections.

7. Start small. Reach out to local bookstores, social media influencers, local news stations, and your friend groups to spread the word. Word of mouth is a HUGE way to get your name out there. From there, you will begin to network and spread your wings in places that you didn't think you would. Make sure to keep track of your connections in a spreadsheet so you stay organized.

8. Think big. Host a book release party, submit your name in a book awards contest, and send emails to other well-known authors to make connections. You can do this easily with social media because many authors link their business emails on their pages. Send them your press release, website, and bio information as a proper introduction. Offer to mail them a copy of your novel and create that connection.

9. Put in the effort. You will get out of this process what you put into it. Never give up on your dream—you've worked this hard to get this far. Don't let your dream die.

10. Pay it forward. Never forget how you started and where you came from. This journey doesn't happen alone—make sure that you help other authors the same way others have helped you along the way.

Good luck, and set those goals!

Blessings, Brenda

Have you read Three yet? Make sure to write a review on Goodreads and Amazon!