Today's Vlog(s) have been posted.
Here's the first video...
WHAT NOT TO DO AS A NEW AUTHOR
If this video will not play for you... watch it on YouTube or you can read the script below:
What not to do as a New Author
Over the course of time in which I have self-published, I
have had several new authors come to me seeking advice. In answer to all these
requests, I decided to do a vlog to hit up every point I can to help you out.
Please remember that this could vary between authors and this is based upon my
experience. This is the blunt truth with no sugar coating. Unfortunately, I
have seen writers dive in without a clue of what to do.
·
I
see this a lot, especially when it comes to self published authors. Publishing
the book before it’s REALLY ready. It doesn’t matter that
you managed to write a paper for school and your teacher told you that you have
an amazing writing talent. ALL authors need to do this regardless of your
experience. It takes time to write a good quality book and even more time to
have it properly edited and formatted. I have seen writers rushing through the
self-publishing process without properly preparing for it. They’ll skip over a
professional edit, and then complain when reviews mention the bad grammar
within the book. You should not have your friend who did well in English look
over your book and call it edited. Do your research! Find an accredited editor
who has a portfolio and reviews. Talk to your book friends/authors to see if
they have heard of any great editors. Take your time with this process. Believe
me; your readers will see when you rushed.
·
Giveaways
and Facebook parties are great, but most of the time they do nothing for the
good of your book. They attract many readers who, most of the time, are there
for the prizes. This is, in my opinion, a waste to do when you’re a new author.
Work and focus more on your writing and building a fan base.
·
Create
some type of marketing plan. Yes, self-publishing is a lot of work and it takes
time. However, most of all, you should invest in your work. When asked, I would
suggest investing more in the book cover, editing, and publication of a new
book I have been told, “I can’t afford that.” Personally, I think that is an excuse.
If you are not willing to invest in your books, what makes you think readers
will want to as well? If you can’t afford something up front, take the time and
save up for it. It will pay off in the end. Know who you’re marketing to. If
this isn’t in your plan, I advise you to add it in. You don’t want to rely on
solely other authors to see your work, but the demographic for your genre.
Spamming different groups on Facebook and around the net, doesn’t help either.
Most of the time... it gets annoying. Successful writers know who their
audience is and market to that niche.
·
Reviews.
Now this is a big one! Reviews are the way for readers to share what they liked
AND didn’t like about ones book. Get it into your head now... your book WILL
and I repeat WILL get low star reviews along the way. That is okay because not
every book out there is for everyone. So, when you begin getting them, DO NOT
bash the reviewer or jump down their throat for a less than perfect review.
This won’t get you readers nor will it create a good name for you. When you ask
for an HONEST review, be prepared for an HONEST review! NEVER beg for reviews.
This is tasteless in my opinion. I have seen where writers have even paid
people to review their books, this isn’t good either.
When you get your first one star review (I guarantee it) do
not under any circumstances be snarky about it. ALL books get bad reviews.
However, you should prepare for the bullying type reviews, yep you heard me.
When you get one, DO NOT respond to the bully in comments or engage them in any
way. As hard as it might be, report the abuse and LET IT GO!
Well, these are the few tips I have for you today. I’m sure
over time I’ll be back with part two, but until then... Happy writing and thank
you for tuning in to my vlog.
