As I was compiling a quick online event to highlight a new venue for my business, I received an email from a dear friend and colleague. She asked if she could throw her hat into the arena as an upcoming speaker, but she couldn't talk, she was in her "writing cave."
This lady has a great sense of humor and her speaking sessions are highlighted with pithy remarks which often have the audience rolling in laughter. I remember sitting at her feet, literally (the packed room had no more chairs and we were seated on the floor, up against a wall in a convention center) listening to her seminar on teaching children language arts through literature. As she began (without the projector and screen that had not yet been delivered to the room), she was insightful, captivating and fun. Once the audio-visual guys finally showed up and began setting up in the midst of her talk, the screen barely missed her head. She didn't falter and somehow managed to incorporate this event as if it was a planned part of her oration.
This term, "writing cave" struck a cord with me. What is a writing cave and why is this so important to an author? I believe a cave, den, office or any area where you do write should be free of interruption and definitely not contain any distractions! When I enter my cave I open an internet screen and do not turn on my email or social media accounts. I write with a focus and love the "sticky note" feature on my computer that keeps a small, vital list of to-do's handy in case I flounder without direction.
This cave is a place where I enter to work and work hard. Many of you may not know that I am a homeschool parent, and have been for many years. In my years at home with my children I find that by noon we have completed the majority of our schooling and the children spend the afternoon with projects such as art, music, listening to audio presentations or finishing subjects such as reading assignments. The five hours required each day of schooling is easily accomplished in the morning. We don't have any fillers such as changing classes or interruptions such as fire drills.
The same is true with my writing. What I can accomplish when I set out with a clear focus is much greater when I enter my cave free from clutter or distraction. I can look with determination at the project at hand and crank out page after page that might take me twice as long if I am snatching a few minutes here and there. I understand some busy people can't take the hours needed to do this in the midst of their careers. Yet, I know if you set aside time each day as your "writing cave time" you will be surprised at how much you do accomplish.
As a businesswoman, CEO, mom and wife, my loyalties are divided. But, I am driven. I am focused. When I work on a project no matter what it is, I give it my one-hundred percent undivided attention. Whether it is baking (my stress outlet) or pounding away at the computer keyboard I'm all there. This cave mentality is not innate, it is something I've cultivated through the years.
For a business to be successful it must contain the "right" ingredients, otherwise you are spinning your wheels and will eventually become burnt out and decide the effort is not worth the trials associated with the endeavor. Many consider writing a hobby and while I began my writing with a "hobby" mentality it changed fairly quickly. How often I say I wish I had known *then* what I know *now*!
Take time to plan out your writing strategy, find a cave, wherever that may be, and begin today to get those thoughts down onto paper (or word processor file). Know that you are not alone and many of us suffer from distractions from the task at hand. You will accomplish much more, I guarantee it, if you have a system and stick with a plan.
Showing posts with label strategy for authors. Show all posts
Showing posts with label strategy for authors. Show all posts
Monday, September 13, 2010
Friday, October 16, 2009
First Novel: Having Fun
Writing My First Novel and Having Fun With It:
An Amateur’s Take on First Time Writing
by Kathryn Rizzo
I have to say, nothing can be more daunting than the idea of writing your first manuscript. Sure, it sounds like a lovely idea in theory. You have a few ideas that have been rolling around in your head for months, you read books by fabulous authors who are paid fabulous sums of money for their work and then after reading their fabulous book, you find yourself thinking, “Hey, that wasn’t so hot, I could have written that.” And that’s when you decide you are finally going to do it. You are going to write your own novel.
Then comes the day when starting the writing would be perfect. The stars are aligned so that you have a few precious hours free, the house is somehow miraculously quiet and your inner muse is simply begging you to finally share the talent that you know you have. Everything about the day is telling you that you are on the cusp of creating a masterpiece. And then… Dun Dun Dun…the eerie feeing of doubt crashes your writing party like the class bully who has always had it out for you.
Suddenly you find yourself second guessing everything. How am I actually going to write a novel? What do I even know about writing? What was I thinking, I can’t write a manuscript. I must have been crazy. That’s it, I’m just going to have a Crunch Bar and call it a day.
Well, I am here to tell you to put your writing party gear back on and to get back to that focused mindset because if there’s one thing I’ve learned from writing my own manuscript, it is that if I can do it, anyone can. All you have to do is hold tight to the drive and determination to see your novel through to the very end, no matter what. If you do this, you will be leaving your writing experience with a sense of pride and accomplishment stronger than you ever expected.
When I first started my manuscript, I was writing it as more as a form of personal entertainment. They library was closed, nothing good was on TV, I had a few hours to kill before I had to go to work and I couldn’t think of anything good to lookup on Youtube.com. I had also just finished reading a book I wasn’t very impressed with, so I asked myself what I would have done differently if I was the one who wrote the novel. That idea lead to the question, what would I write about if I was a writer? And that question lead to me writing my very first work of fiction and unknowingly beginning my first novel.
From that day on I was determined to keep going. I was going to continue my story every single day, I didn’t care if it was a chapter, a paragraph, or even a sentence…I was going to make some kind of progress. Before I knew it, my original ten pages turned into fifty, which turned into a hundred and fifty, and which ended as two hundred and fifty. And when I printed out my work and sat it down on my desk, I’ll never forget the feeling of finally seeing myself as a writer.
And what was it that made writing my first manuscript possible? Just having fun with my novel. I never thought of it as a serious thing. I didn’t see what I was doing as intense and it. If you just have fun with your writing, you can’t go wrong. When I was in the process of writing it wasn’t stressful because I too busy being happy and excited about doing something that I never thought was possible, for me. Everyday I would go through the motions of work and my other responsibilities, all the while mentally itching to get home so I could get at my laptop and write.
For me, writing my novel was such a freeing and incredible experience and even if I never do get it published, I’ll always keep writing. Every time I look at my manuscript I know that I completed a serious feat and that I told my doubtful bully, who said that I didn’t know the first thing about writing, to sell his negativity elsewhere because if I want to be a writer, then I can. I firmly believe that anyone who wants to be a writer can and should be (whether you are published or not). And like I said earlier, if you just have fun with your writing, you can’t go wrong.
An Amateur’s Take on First Time Writing
by Kathryn Rizzo
I have to say, nothing can be more daunting than the idea of writing your first manuscript. Sure, it sounds like a lovely idea in theory. You have a few ideas that have been rolling around in your head for months, you read books by fabulous authors who are paid fabulous sums of money for their work and then after reading their fabulous book, you find yourself thinking, “Hey, that wasn’t so hot, I could have written that.” And that’s when you decide you are finally going to do it. You are going to write your own novel.
Then comes the day when starting the writing would be perfect. The stars are aligned so that you have a few precious hours free, the house is somehow miraculously quiet and your inner muse is simply begging you to finally share the talent that you know you have. Everything about the day is telling you that you are on the cusp of creating a masterpiece. And then… Dun Dun Dun…the eerie feeing of doubt crashes your writing party like the class bully who has always had it out for you.
Suddenly you find yourself second guessing everything. How am I actually going to write a novel? What do I even know about writing? What was I thinking, I can’t write a manuscript. I must have been crazy. That’s it, I’m just going to have a Crunch Bar and call it a day.
Well, I am here to tell you to put your writing party gear back on and to get back to that focused mindset because if there’s one thing I’ve learned from writing my own manuscript, it is that if I can do it, anyone can. All you have to do is hold tight to the drive and determination to see your novel through to the very end, no matter what. If you do this, you will be leaving your writing experience with a sense of pride and accomplishment stronger than you ever expected.
When I first started my manuscript, I was writing it as more as a form of personal entertainment. They library was closed, nothing good was on TV, I had a few hours to kill before I had to go to work and I couldn’t think of anything good to lookup on Youtube.com. I had also just finished reading a book I wasn’t very impressed with, so I asked myself what I would have done differently if I was the one who wrote the novel. That idea lead to the question, what would I write about if I was a writer? And that question lead to me writing my very first work of fiction and unknowingly beginning my first novel.
From that day on I was determined to keep going. I was going to continue my story every single day, I didn’t care if it was a chapter, a paragraph, or even a sentence…I was going to make some kind of progress. Before I knew it, my original ten pages turned into fifty, which turned into a hundred and fifty, and which ended as two hundred and fifty. And when I printed out my work and sat it down on my desk, I’ll never forget the feeling of finally seeing myself as a writer.
And what was it that made writing my first manuscript possible? Just having fun with my novel. I never thought of it as a serious thing. I didn’t see what I was doing as intense and it. If you just have fun with your writing, you can’t go wrong. When I was in the process of writing it wasn’t stressful because I too busy being happy and excited about doing something that I never thought was possible, for me. Everyday I would go through the motions of work and my other responsibilities, all the while mentally itching to get home so I could get at my laptop and write.
For me, writing my novel was such a freeing and incredible experience and even if I never do get it published, I’ll always keep writing. Every time I look at my manuscript I know that I completed a serious feat and that I told my doubtful bully, who said that I didn’t know the first thing about writing, to sell his negativity elsewhere because if I want to be a writer, then I can. I firmly believe that anyone who wants to be a writer can and should be (whether you are published or not). And like I said earlier, if you just have fun with your writing, you can’t go wrong.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Writing Good Book Reviews: by Lori Kasbeer
People often times confuse book reviews with book reports. Book reports describe what happens in the book. Their focus is the retelling of facts concerning plot, characters, and the main idea. Book reviews inform readers what the book is like and whether it was enjoyable or not. Good book reviews help increase the sale of a book.
If you review books on your web site, be aware of the type of readers you have visiting and ask yourself if the subject matter will interest them. For Lori’s Book Reviews the majority of my audience is women between the ages of 20 to 60. I do have a few male readers, but it is predominately women. Therefore books I review will cover what I believe will interest them; you won’t find me reviewing book covering war stories because that is not what my readers are looking for.
When you are offered a book for review, remember that was something the author worked very hard for. Honest opinion of the book should be offered, but in a respectful manner.
Tips I found helpful when I write book reviews:
1. READ THE BOOK. I can not stress this enough, you can not offer a fair review if you only skim the book.
2. As you read the book write down themes or quotes that may interest readers.
3. While writing, tell readers about the story as if you are sitting across from them discussing the book.
4. Give the name of the author and the book several times throughout the review.
5. Since my tag line is “Reviewing Books with a Purpose” I want to share what insight I found in the book. How did the book bring readers closer to God?
6. Express your honest opinion. A review should either persuade readers to pickup the book or to avoid reading it.
7. Don’t give any surprises away in your review.
The on going debate right now is “Do Blog Book Reviews Drive Sales?” Anne Kingman and Michael Kindness, who are Random House sales representatives, reported that more than 30% of their readers at Books on the Nightstand have bought three to five books based on recommendations on the site and 14% have bought six or more, according to the 252 respondents to their recent reader survey. A recent survey of lit blog readers shows that 56% buy books primarily based on the influence of blogs. I believe publishers like Thomas Nelson, Random House and Tyndale House Publishers have realized this and now offer a blogger review program.
After you have a well written review posted on your web site, be sure to email the author or publishing house and offer a link to your review. Also post your reviews on Amazon.com or Christianbook.com to increase your exposure as a book reviewer.
If you are interested in becoming a book reviewer here are some links to get you started:
Thomas Nelson (http://brb.thomasnelson.com/)
Tyndale House (http://mediacenter.tyndale.com)
Lori's Book Reviews:
http://laurelwreathsreflections.com/lorisbookreviews/
If you review books on your web site, be aware of the type of readers you have visiting and ask yourself if the subject matter will interest them. For Lori’s Book Reviews the majority of my audience is women between the ages of 20 to 60. I do have a few male readers, but it is predominately women. Therefore books I review will cover what I believe will interest them; you won’t find me reviewing book covering war stories because that is not what my readers are looking for.
When you are offered a book for review, remember that was something the author worked very hard for. Honest opinion of the book should be offered, but in a respectful manner.
Tips I found helpful when I write book reviews:
1. READ THE BOOK. I can not stress this enough, you can not offer a fair review if you only skim the book.
2. As you read the book write down themes or quotes that may interest readers.
3. While writing, tell readers about the story as if you are sitting across from them discussing the book.
4. Give the name of the author and the book several times throughout the review.
5. Since my tag line is “Reviewing Books with a Purpose” I want to share what insight I found in the book. How did the book bring readers closer to God?
6. Express your honest opinion. A review should either persuade readers to pickup the book or to avoid reading it.
7. Don’t give any surprises away in your review.
The on going debate right now is “Do Blog Book Reviews Drive Sales?” Anne Kingman and Michael Kindness, who are Random House sales representatives, reported that more than 30% of their readers at Books on the Nightstand have bought three to five books based on recommendations on the site and 14% have bought six or more, according to the 252 respondents to their recent reader survey. A recent survey of lit blog readers shows that 56% buy books primarily based on the influence of blogs. I believe publishers like Thomas Nelson, Random House and Tyndale House Publishers have realized this and now offer a blogger review program.
After you have a well written review posted on your web site, be sure to email the author or publishing house and offer a link to your review. Also post your reviews on Amazon.com or Christianbook.com to increase your exposure as a book reviewer.
If you are interested in becoming a book reviewer here are some links to get you started:
Thomas Nelson (http://brb.thomasnelson.com/)
Tyndale House (http://mediacenter.tyndale.com)
Lori's Book Reviews:
http://laurelwreathsreflections.com/lorisbookreviews/
Monday, September 21, 2009
What about a Good Review?
We all know a good review can make or break an author's reputation. Whether it is in film, theater or in print, what someone says about your work counts. How do you get a good review? Write a good book. Okay, all kidding aside, a good review can be obtained by sending your book to the correct reviewer, one who has a passion for the same type of topic as your book, or at the very least has written some reviews along the same line. Research is a good way to find out who is reviewing books and where they are submitting their reviews for publication.
I'm at the age where I feel like I have a story for everything and this is no exception. I once was asked to review a book on a topic I truly disliked. Being an author (and a sympathetic one, I might add), I wrote the author and explained my predicament. A good rule of thumb is to ask the reviewer (if they are not professional reviewers by trade), if they are interested in reviewing your book. I have obtained about ninety percent of my book reviews in that way. My favorite way to obtain a review is to have someone write or email me to review their books.
Ready for another story? When I first began writing I would send my books to practically anyone who asked. I finally learned this was a way that some people obtained free books! I soon learned after that costly mistake to ask where they were posting their reviews, and if they were professional or not. A good blogger with a large readership can easily help your sales if they review your book. So, choose your reviewers carefully.
What if you don't have a book? Well, if you take my premium authors' class you can be an author in as little as six months. I am currently working with students to realize their dreams. At the very least I hope you are tuning into my radio show and if you are interested in more details here is the link: http://www.writingmembership.com
This week (September 21-September 30th) I will have my writing and publishing book on sale for $5.00. If you have not picked up a copy, now is the time. This is a very limited offer! You may want to buy more than one book and gift one to a writing friend.
http://store.mediaangels.com:82/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=44&products_id=90
This week our guest blogger will be Lori Kasbeer who is a literary reviewer. I will interview her on my blog talk radio show as well as post her blog on this site later this week!
I'm at the age where I feel like I have a story for everything and this is no exception. I once was asked to review a book on a topic I truly disliked. Being an author (and a sympathetic one, I might add), I wrote the author and explained my predicament. A good rule of thumb is to ask the reviewer (if they are not professional reviewers by trade), if they are interested in reviewing your book. I have obtained about ninety percent of my book reviews in that way. My favorite way to obtain a review is to have someone write or email me to review their books.
Ready for another story? When I first began writing I would send my books to practically anyone who asked. I finally learned this was a way that some people obtained free books! I soon learned after that costly mistake to ask where they were posting their reviews, and if they were professional or not. A good blogger with a large readership can easily help your sales if they review your book. So, choose your reviewers carefully.
What if you don't have a book? Well, if you take my premium authors' class you can be an author in as little as six months. I am currently working with students to realize their dreams. At the very least I hope you are tuning into my radio show and if you are interested in more details here is the link: http://www.writingmembership.com
This week (September 21-September 30th) I will have my writing and publishing book on sale for $5.00. If you have not picked up a copy, now is the time. This is a very limited offer! You may want to buy more than one book and gift one to a writing friend.
http://store.mediaangels.com:82/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=44&products_id=90
This week our guest blogger will be Lori Kasbeer who is a literary reviewer. I will interview her on my blog talk radio show as well as post her blog on this site later this week!
Monday, September 14, 2009
Marketing Strategy 9: Black Book of Business Contacts
In the world of business there is the coveted "book of business" that contains key contacts. Usually a list is amassed over the years of doing business. The longer you are in business and are successful the more valuable your contacts become.
A book of business would vary greatly by industry. A contractor's contact list might be different from those of an attorney. While an insurance sales person would have a contact list that was not industry specific, but based upon clients who have purchased from them in the past. Who would be in the book? This may include previous clients, contacts in the media, or people you know who are great at referrals. This list of people would be in your niche market, or those that would be the most interested in your book topic. You are not going to include your plumbers name in the list, no matter how important he may be unless you have a book that is geared to the plumbing industry.
In the world of writing and publishing your book of business may contain some of the suggestions listed below. Don't limit yourself to these categories, and by all means if you have additional suggestions, please share!
Pre-Book Publication:
Writing and Publishing Book of Business Contacts:
Agents
Publishers
Graphic Artists
Editors
Printers (for self-publishers)
Publicity
Book Club Reviewers
Speakers associations
Magazine or print editors
Valuable online contacts
Social networking websites
This list will grow as you slowly get closer to your publication date. I have a list of twelve people I use with each book I print. Does this list vary, yes...but I am so happy the major leg work is over. I know who I am going to use to layout and create the cover of each book, I know who I'll choose to edit, distribute, or help with publicity. I know who I will call to set up speaking engagements, help with promotions and share my information via speakers bureaus and networks. What a time saver!
Do you have a list of people that you will use to help you as your book project grows near completion? If not, begin today.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Marketing Strategy 8: Covers Sell Books, Front and Back
As an author you get inside the mind of your character if it is fiction, or teach or explain a concept well if it is non-fiction. But, have you taken the time to get inside the head of your buyer? If you haven't or don't know where to begin, start with yourself.
Go to the bookstore with a topic in mind. When you arrive look at the books that attract you. Why do they? What was it that made you stop to look? Remember these points, or if you are like me, you need to jot them down or you'll forget. By any chance was it the book cover? If you said, "Yes!" you are not alone. Many of us are attracted by a title, the illustrations on a book cover, or the color, yet once the "first-attraction" is over, we flip it to the back or open up the book and look at the book jacket copy.
A book cover may convey a thousand words... but if the words on the inside don't measure up it goes back on the shelf. An author does not have long to impress a potential customer, it is mere seconds. What is your cover story? What makes you pick up a book or purchase it? I'm curious to know.
Go to the bookstore with a topic in mind. When you arrive look at the books that attract you. Why do they? What was it that made you stop to look? Remember these points, or if you are like me, you need to jot them down or you'll forget. By any chance was it the book cover? If you said, "Yes!" you are not alone. Many of us are attracted by a title, the illustrations on a book cover, or the color, yet once the "first-attraction" is over, we flip it to the back or open up the book and look at the book jacket copy.
A book cover may convey a thousand words... but if the words on the inside don't measure up it goes back on the shelf. An author does not have long to impress a potential customer, it is mere seconds. What is your cover story? What makes you pick up a book or purchase it? I'm curious to know.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Book Signings: Joel N. Cobbs
by Joel N. Cobbs
· DO NOT be afraid of talking to people. Go to a bookstore, talk to the manager (preferably the General Manager) and set up an appointment.
· DO NOT give up! If a bookstore doesn't want to carry your book, just move on to the next one. If you decide to try the same chain, only do it once more or you'll be "flagged" and will have a hard time getting a signing there later on.
· DO NOT throw tantrums. Sure, this SOUNDS silly, but you'd be amazed. Having several friends in the business, I've heard many a tale about rude customers, but I've also heard some interesting ones about self-published authors.
· (EXAMPLE) A lady went into a Huntsville bookstore with a book she'd self-published. She didn't have the buyback guarantee and the store was unable to carry her book. She left in a huff, making a scene and attracting a lot of attention to herself and the people around her (INCLUDING THE GENERAL MANAGER.) Believe it or not, word travels fast between bookstores, almost as fast as Vegas casinos. If you throw a fit in one store, I promise another will hear about it within a few minutes, probably before you can get there. (How do you think I heard about it?)
· DO go the extra mile. For me, the best experience I had with author signings was with Rick & Bubba. They were scheduled to be at our store at 3 in the afternoon and leave at 6 (yes, only three hours.) So how long did they stay? Until EVERY CUSTOMER LEFT! (Which ran right up to the time we closed.) They even stayed a few minutes after the customers left so the employees could meet them and sign autographs. See? Because of that incident, when I think of author signings they IMMEDIATELY come to mind. Think of it this way, these are the people who are buying your books and telling others to buy them. You want every experience they have with you to be the best and one they'll never forget (in the good way, of course.)
· DO get your name out there. Email the local paper and ask them (say "please") to put a small something about your book signing. Email the contact person at the local news station and tell them about it. Tell your friends and family and ASK them to tell their friends and family.
· And once again, be nice. Realize that times are tough, bad things happen, etc. etc., and just swallow it like a mature adult and move on.
· DO NOT be afraid of talking to people. Go to a bookstore, talk to the manager (preferably the General Manager) and set up an appointment.
· DO NOT give up! If a bookstore doesn't want to carry your book, just move on to the next one. If you decide to try the same chain, only do it once more or you'll be "flagged" and will have a hard time getting a signing there later on.
· DO NOT throw tantrums. Sure, this SOUNDS silly, but you'd be amazed. Having several friends in the business, I've heard many a tale about rude customers, but I've also heard some interesting ones about self-published authors.
· (EXAMPLE) A lady went into a Huntsville bookstore with a book she'd self-published. She didn't have the buyback guarantee and the store was unable to carry her book. She left in a huff, making a scene and attracting a lot of attention to herself and the people around her (INCLUDING THE GENERAL MANAGER.) Believe it or not, word travels fast between bookstores, almost as fast as Vegas casinos. If you throw a fit in one store, I promise another will hear about it within a few minutes, probably before you can get there. (How do you think I heard about it?)
· DO go the extra mile. For me, the best experience I had with author signings was with Rick & Bubba. They were scheduled to be at our store at 3 in the afternoon and leave at 6 (yes, only three hours.) So how long did they stay? Until EVERY CUSTOMER LEFT! (Which ran right up to the time we closed.) They even stayed a few minutes after the customers left so the employees could meet them and sign autographs. See? Because of that incident, when I think of author signings they IMMEDIATELY come to mind. Think of it this way, these are the people who are buying your books and telling others to buy them. You want every experience they have with you to be the best and one they'll never forget (in the good way, of course.)
· DO get your name out there. Email the local paper and ask them (say "please") to put a small something about your book signing. Email the contact person at the local news station and tell them about it. Tell your friends and family and ASK them to tell their friends and family.
· And once again, be nice. Realize that times are tough, bad things happen, etc. etc., and just swallow it like a mature adult and move on.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Author Book Signings
During a recent visit to a local Christian bookstore, I found an author book signing underway. As I watched the event from nearby, the author of a well known fiction series, greeted the line of women and chatted briefly with each. She had poise. She had flair. She seemed relaxed and appeared to be enjoying herself.She had arrived at the top, or to the outside world, so it appeared. Book signings are the goal of many authors, especially novelists. Large royalty publishers have an easier time setting up book signings for their authors, yet it is possible for small literary publishers and self-published authors as well. Several of my author friends have hired publicists who set up radio interviews, television spots as well as print interviews. Yet, there is nothing like being up close and personal. What a great way to sell product and meet your readers.
If you are interested in obtaining a book signing at a major store chain I invite you to listen to this week's Blog Talk Radio Show for authors, Information In A Nutshell Radio where I will interview a book store employee, Joel Cobb who will share his insider's tips: http://www.WritingandPublishingRadio.com
Joel will also be the guest blogger this week and will share his information on what works, what doesn't and protocol that major book store chains require. Knowing the rules is always important. In this case it will make the difference between a good experience and one that could ban you from future book stores in the entire area.
My largest book signing was at the Christian Book Association (CBA) National conference, hosted by my distributor. It was a major event and upon entering my husband who accompanied me, smiled and said, "We're not in Kansas anymore." I laughed which helped to alleviate my nervousness, somewhat. Here I was, ready to re-launch a series of books, The Truth Seeker's Mystery Series, The Missing Link: Found and I was so nervous! It turned out to be an unforgettable time and I enjoyed meeting new people and sharing my love and passion for being an author. Have you had a book signing or perhaps attended one? Share your insights with us here.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Guest Blogger: Susan K. Marlow
Part 2
4. Changing points of view during a scene. TV shows and movies can get away with this, and maybe even the classic writers of old, but it's not a good idea to bounce around from one character's thoughts and viewpoint to another's, all in the same scene. I've seen this many times in beginning writers' work. In fact, changing POVs (points of view) was the very first thing a critique group pointed out to me during my first writers' group meeting. My character was just getting ready to be trampled by a wild stallion and her brother pulled her to safety. Then I switched points of view and told the story from the brother's viewpoint as he rescued his sister. I had no idea I was doing something that is a "mistake." It's OK to switch POVs between chapters or if you use a distinct scene break, but avoid jumping around during the same scene.
5. Run-on sentences. I'm always amazed when I read new writers' work and wonder if a sentence is ever going to end. It's like they're so busy putting thoughts on paper they forget there needs to be a period now and then. Instead, they connect phrases and clauses with "and" "but" "then" "so" and other connectors that are best used sparingly. Here's an example: "Sarah, the office manager, wanted all the memos to be typed so they would be easy to read, but Jane just couldn't figure the keyboard out, no matter how many times Jane tried to teach her, and it drove Jane nuts." It's best to use short, snappy sentences (especially if you want to build suspense). Save the longer sentences for a quiet, sleepy feeling. But be careful you don't put the reader to sleep!
6. Pet word. Every beginning writer (and sometimes experienced authors) have a basket of "pet words." These are words that flowed so well when we use them that before long we've crossed over into "overuse." A good critique partner (or editor) catches there favorite words right away. Mine was "just." Other pet words may include "that" "then" "very" "really" and "OK." You don't even know you're using them! However, that wonderful "Find" tool in the Word program helps you track them down and use a different word or (better yet) cut them out. Even now I cringe like a beginner when my critiquer says things like "first use" "second use" "third use" and she's still on the same page. Most recently, my pet word was "toss." Things were always getting tossed! And I didn't even know it until she pointed it out to me.
7. Pest words. Pet words quickly morph into "pest words." These are bugs that infect your writing and can brand you as a beginner. "ly" adverbs are a perfect example of pest words. "Really, happily, clearly, wisely, lovingly, carefully, frantically . . ." There is no end to these verb modifiers! While the beginner believes he is expanding his description (Jon held tightly to the railing), in reality it is considered weak writing. Intead, go through your manuscript and find "ly" adverbs and try to think of a strong, vivid verb to use instead. (Jon gripped the railing). Sarah talked loudly could be Sarah shouted. The boy ran quickly through the forest = The boy dashed through the forest. Again, this is a beginner's mistake that most of us don't realize we are making and it easy to fix!
"ing" words are another pest problem. I've seen many manuscripts come in where the character can't say or do anything without an "ing" word attached to the dialogue tag. "I can't hang on much longer!" Jon said loudly, holding tightly to the edge of the cliff. Sounds OK at first glance, and honestly, a few of these are OK in a novel. It's overuse we're talking about here. This could be changed to: Jon clung to the cliff's edge. "I can't hang on much longer!" The exclamation point clues the reader into the fact that he's probably shouting. I replaced the "holding tightly" with "clung."
8. Passive verbs. Beginning authors always use passive verb forms. It's a sure sign, so look out and fix this one before sending anything into an editor or agent. Passive = slow. Active = action. A passive verb is when you use a state-of-being verb (am, is are, was, were, be, being, been) and have all that great action happening TO the subject of the sentence instead of the subject DOING the action. This wearies a reader's mind in no time and makes the story slog along like it's caught in molasses. For example: The meeting was called to order by President Baker. Change to: President Baker called the meeting to order. Or . . . The dog was hit by the car. Change to: The car hit the dog. Again, the occasional use of passive verb forms add variety to your story, but overuse will brand you as a beginner.
Learning to self-edit your own work saves you a lot of misery (from rejection letters) and money (from paying an editor to do what you are perfectly capable of doing). Once you are aware of the mistakes, it takes only determination and vigilance to keep from falling into these beginner traps.
Editor's Note: Susan Marlow has authored a book for students, Reach for the Stars Young Fiction Author's Workbook
Susan K. Marlow
www.circlecadventures.com
4. Changing points of view during a scene. TV shows and movies can get away with this, and maybe even the classic writers of old, but it's not a good idea to bounce around from one character's thoughts and viewpoint to another's, all in the same scene. I've seen this many times in beginning writers' work. In fact, changing POVs (points of view) was the very first thing a critique group pointed out to me during my first writers' group meeting. My character was just getting ready to be trampled by a wild stallion and her brother pulled her to safety. Then I switched points of view and told the story from the brother's viewpoint as he rescued his sister. I had no idea I was doing something that is a "mistake." It's OK to switch POVs between chapters or if you use a distinct scene break, but avoid jumping around during the same scene.
5. Run-on sentences. I'm always amazed when I read new writers' work and wonder if a sentence is ever going to end. It's like they're so busy putting thoughts on paper they forget there needs to be a period now and then. Instead, they connect phrases and clauses with "and" "but" "then" "so" and other connectors that are best used sparingly. Here's an example: "Sarah, the office manager, wanted all the memos to be typed so they would be easy to read, but Jane just couldn't figure the keyboard out, no matter how many times Jane tried to teach her, and it drove Jane nuts." It's best to use short, snappy sentences (especially if you want to build suspense). Save the longer sentences for a quiet, sleepy feeling. But be careful you don't put the reader to sleep!
6. Pet word. Every beginning writer (and sometimes experienced authors) have a basket of "pet words." These are words that flowed so well when we use them that before long we've crossed over into "overuse." A good critique partner (or editor) catches there favorite words right away. Mine was "just." Other pet words may include "that" "then" "very" "really" and "OK." You don't even know you're using them! However, that wonderful "Find" tool in the Word program helps you track them down and use a different word or (better yet) cut them out. Even now I cringe like a beginner when my critiquer says things like "first use" "second use" "third use" and she's still on the same page. Most recently, my pet word was "toss." Things were always getting tossed! And I didn't even know it until she pointed it out to me.
7. Pest words. Pet words quickly morph into "pest words." These are bugs that infect your writing and can brand you as a beginner. "ly" adverbs are a perfect example of pest words. "Really, happily, clearly, wisely, lovingly, carefully, frantically . . ." There is no end to these verb modifiers! While the beginner believes he is expanding his description (Jon held tightly to the railing), in reality it is considered weak writing. Intead, go through your manuscript and find "ly" adverbs and try to think of a strong, vivid verb to use instead. (Jon gripped the railing). Sarah talked loudly could be Sarah shouted. The boy ran quickly through the forest = The boy dashed through the forest. Again, this is a beginner's mistake that most of us don't realize we are making and it easy to fix!
"ing" words are another pest problem. I've seen many manuscripts come in where the character can't say or do anything without an "ing" word attached to the dialogue tag. "I can't hang on much longer!" Jon said loudly, holding tightly to the edge of the cliff. Sounds OK at first glance, and honestly, a few of these are OK in a novel. It's overuse we're talking about here. This could be changed to: Jon clung to the cliff's edge. "I can't hang on much longer!" The exclamation point clues the reader into the fact that he's probably shouting. I replaced the "holding tightly" with "clung."
8. Passive verbs. Beginning authors always use passive verb forms. It's a sure sign, so look out and fix this one before sending anything into an editor or agent. Passive = slow. Active = action. A passive verb is when you use a state-of-being verb (am, is are, was, were, be, being, been) and have all that great action happening TO the subject of the sentence instead of the subject DOING the action. This wearies a reader's mind in no time and makes the story slog along like it's caught in molasses. For example: The meeting was called to order by President Baker. Change to: President Baker called the meeting to order. Or . . . The dog was hit by the car. Change to: The car hit the dog. Again, the occasional use of passive verb forms add variety to your story, but overuse will brand you as a beginner.
Learning to self-edit your own work saves you a lot of misery (from rejection letters) and money (from paying an editor to do what you are perfectly capable of doing). Once you are aware of the mistakes, it takes only determination and vigilance to keep from falling into these beginner traps.
Editor's Note: Susan Marlow has authored a book for students, Reach for the Stars Young Fiction Author's Workbook
Susan K. Marlow
www.circlecadventures.com
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Fiction Author: Susan K. Marlow
Does social media work in landing a publisher? For author, Susan K. Marlow, the answer is “yes” in regard to her book, “Reach for the Stars: Young Fiction Author’s Workbook.” And, who was that publisher? Media Angels, Inc. (that is my publishing company). I met Susan Marlow via Facebook when someone recommended that I “friend” her…I looked at her bio and found that she was a fiction author. I was intrigued and not only did I ask her to be my friend but I asked if I could interview her. I soon learned that Susan Marlow hates the thought of anything being “boring” and she is a wife, fun-loving mom of 4 adult children, grandmother, horse-lover and avid fiction author.
Susan and I have burned the airwaves in long-distance phone calls (she lives in Washington (State) and I in Florida, and email correspondence. Susan and I have little and lots in common. She has the grammatical gene I lack. We both love to write, love our kids and grandkids; both are homeschool moms and were both education majors. She is much more outdoorsy than I. I like horses in movies, novels, and from a distance. My one and only episode riding a horse resulted in a family story my in-laws still recount. Let’s put it this way…they are big animals and to be respected. I did manage to get up on the horse with my dignity intact and ride the horse…but that is all I’ll share of that adventure. Susan on the other hand can be found with photos of herself on a horse on her blog and website. (Go Susan!)
When I read Susan’s writing book for kids I loved it. I asked that she add a few pages Okay, 60 pages. Even so Susan was a good sport about it and did a fabulous job. This book has hit the ground at a good pace and is selling rather well. If you want to hear how Susan found a publisher for her Circle C series, what she recommends for those considering writing children’s fiction and more about Susan join me on my Blog Talk Radio show at http://www.WritingandPublishingRadio.com
There is a contest to win a free: Information In a Nutshell: Writing and Publishing book OR a copy of the writing book for children, "Reach for the Stars: Young Fiction Author's Workbook" Listen to today's radio show and you can find out how to win!
Susan and I have burned the airwaves in long-distance phone calls (she lives in Washington (State) and I in Florida, and email correspondence. Susan and I have little and lots in common. She has the grammatical gene I lack. We both love to write, love our kids and grandkids; both are homeschool moms and were both education majors. She is much more outdoorsy than I. I like horses in movies, novels, and from a distance. My one and only episode riding a horse resulted in a family story my in-laws still recount. Let’s put it this way…they are big animals and to be respected. I did manage to get up on the horse with my dignity intact and ride the horse…but that is all I’ll share of that adventure. Susan on the other hand can be found with photos of herself on a horse on her blog and website. (Go Susan!)
When I read Susan’s writing book for kids I loved it. I asked that she add a few pages Okay, 60 pages. Even so Susan was a good sport about it and did a fabulous job. This book has hit the ground at a good pace and is selling rather well. If you want to hear how Susan found a publisher for her Circle C series, what she recommends for those considering writing children’s fiction and more about Susan join me on my Blog Talk Radio show at http://www.WritingandPublishingRadio.com
There is a contest to win a free: Information In a Nutshell: Writing and Publishing book OR a copy of the writing book for children, "Reach for the Stars: Young Fiction Author's Workbook" Listen to today's radio show and you can find out how to win!
Saturday, August 8, 2009
A Fiction Author's Story
The way a fiction author finds his characters, story line, and publisher, is almost as interesting a read as the novel itself. Such is the case of Certified Financial Planner and President of Academy Wealth Management, Eric Reinhold. Eric began telling his children bedtime stories that they enjoyed immensely. This evolved into writing, for which he had no formal education. As a graduate of the Naval Academy, creative writing classes are hard to come by. Eric took a few creative writing classes in high school. He is mainly self-taught, and claims he took to heart the “show it don’t tell it” aspect, so important in weaving a fiction tale.
Eric has completed two of the three planned books in the Annals of Aeliana, which is set to be a trilogy. When asked where his writing ideas come from, he said, “I strongly believe that the people you know, the books you read, and the places you go have a significant influence on your life and have been a great impact on my writing.” The story is set in a real-life town of Mount Dora, Florida. A visit to this picturesque town intrigued Eric, and he felt that every element an author could desire to create a fantasy adventure was contained there. So began his writing journey. It would take him seven years to complete the first novel.
Many people might have given up, but obviously Eric’s belief in his idea, characters, and the faith-filled adventure he created spurred him on. Once his book was completed, the next and very important step was finding a publisher. In 2000, Eric tried to find a Christian publisher. He didn’t have any takers. He finally landed a contract with Creation House, some years later. The book has been a success in many ways, but especially to Eric as he received a three book contract. Originally, Eric had planned a seven book series, and may still write that number of books.
Everything depends on sales. Sales drive the engine of any successful publishing house. Taking a chance on an unknown author is always risky, especially one without experience. But this didn’t stop Eric from trying. He has worked very hard in marketing the books, alongside his publisher, and has some insight in ways that are effective.
Listen to Blog Talk Radio: Information In A Nutshell with Felice Gerwitz as she interviews Eric Rheinhold on Monday, August 10, 2009.
(http://www.WritingandPublishingRadio.com)
Eric has completed two of the three planned books in the Annals of Aeliana, which is set to be a trilogy. When asked where his writing ideas come from, he said, “I strongly believe that the people you know, the books you read, and the places you go have a significant influence on your life and have been a great impact on my writing.” The story is set in a real-life town of Mount Dora, Florida. A visit to this picturesque town intrigued Eric, and he felt that every element an author could desire to create a fantasy adventure was contained there. So began his writing journey. It would take him seven years to complete the first novel.
Many people might have given up, but obviously Eric’s belief in his idea, characters, and the faith-filled adventure he created spurred him on. Once his book was completed, the next and very important step was finding a publisher. In 2000, Eric tried to find a Christian publisher. He didn’t have any takers. He finally landed a contract with Creation House, some years later. The book has been a success in many ways, but especially to Eric as he received a three book contract. Originally, Eric had planned a seven book series, and may still write that number of books.
Everything depends on sales. Sales drive the engine of any successful publishing house. Taking a chance on an unknown author is always risky, especially one without experience. But this didn’t stop Eric from trying. He has worked very hard in marketing the books, alongside his publisher, and has some insight in ways that are effective.
Listen to Blog Talk Radio: Information In A Nutshell with Felice Gerwitz as she interviews Eric Rheinhold on Monday, August 10, 2009.
(http://www.WritingandPublishingRadio.com)
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Organization for Authors
There are many things I feel confident in doing, but organization isn't one of them. I have invested in the books, read, highlighted and sticky-noted them (to prove they were used), and even implemented some of the more noteworthy strategies. I’ve learned some valuable tidbits along the way. But, unfortunately bad habits die hard.
I use many excuses as to why I can’t be organized a few of them are as follows:
I enjoy being creative and a messy desk is the sign of creative activity.
If I spent my time being organized I'd never write!
Why put that paper away when I’ll need it in a few minutes?
I’ll do it later.
Well, all of these sentiments do hold a tiny kernel of truth, but the fact remains, I have often spent hours looking for a valuable piece of information that I can't find. I heard that when all those wasted hours are added up, we can spend as much as 6 weeks of time total in one year looking for things. That makes even the most unorganized person (like me) cringe! It’s not that I don’t want to be organized, I do. But, I consider organization to be work and work is something that takes effort...and then…well…it’s so much easier to lay down that piece of paper rather than using up much needed brain cells to figure out where the paper goes. Besides, in order for me to file I need folders that are labeled and a place to put them and that takes t*i*m*e...the 4-letter work most full time authors don't have in their vocabularies.
As an author, I need to be somewhat organized in my business as well as my personal life. I have used many systems; in fact I feel I’ve tried just about every suggestion that made sense to me. At one time I used notebooks, tabbing important pages with sticky notes or using dividers that I created or purchased. Then, I switched to file cabinets but I have never liked files. When I tired of the file cabinets I went to baskets in matching styles but in various sizes. I even organized the children’s toys in baskets and I loved the way it looked. The problem with baskets is you can easily dump an a sundry of items that don’t belong…quicker than you can say, “clean up now!”
I enjoyed using the baskets for my business as well. The end of the baskets came when then, new accountant walked into my office, and looked with disdain at my baskets overflowing with papers, and said in a no-nonsense voice, “You have got to be kidding me.” She quickly requisitioned file cabinets, folders and a system that I still have in place, today. I still insisted on a basket for office supplies, and miscellaneous items.
My favorite way to organize is digitally. I make back-ups upon back-ups of computer information. I have crashed more external hard drives than I care to mention. I seem to have no problem creating a folder on my computer and placing the appropriate pieces of information neatly where it belongs. Although, I have to admit, old habits remain and when I’m in a hurry, everything goes on the desktop to be organized at a later date. I quickly drag the files in the appropriate folders and if there isn’t one I quickly make and label a new file. Why can’t life be so easy? Just drag and drop.
Here are some techniques I have used that work very well for those oh so important bits of information that every author needs.
1. Place important information I need to access soon in a file folder, in a free standing hanging folder on my desk. I can label a new folder or use a catch all to keep those scraps that would otherwise clutter my desk. When I need a that paper, I remember where I “threw” it, retrieve use it and then file it if needed or place it back in the file to use again.
2. Important phone numbers: Easily my cell phone is the best place for numbers, but then I sync my phone to my computer and I print out my list to place in a 3-ring notebook. I have clear business card holders in the back from networking events, or from customers, vendors, or clients. I love this for ease of use. I can grab the book and find everything quickly. I use this one book for multiple businesses, but you may choose to separate home and business.
3. General Important business information: this notebook is for information I don’t need everyday but it is useful to have access when needed, such as: copies of my tax ID number, information about how to file specific information online, passwords, and copies of business licenses, ISBN numbers, and trademark information, etc.
I invite you to listen to my recent interview with prolific author, Cindy Rushton, as she shares her organization techniques with the listening audience. It was wonderful show. Listen here: http://www.WritingandPublishingRadio.com
That’s all for now…I think you have enough to get started or better yet, if you have a great technique, please post it below so we can all learn. I have made great strides in getting organized and find it is a daily struggle, one I hope to conquer one day soon! Maybe I need to write a book on organization, that is one way to become organized (or at least tell others how to do it!) Until next time, keep writing!
I use many excuses as to why I can’t be organized a few of them are as follows:
I enjoy being creative and a messy desk is the sign of creative activity.
If I spent my time being organized I'd never write!
Why put that paper away when I’ll need it in a few minutes?
I’ll do it later.
Well, all of these sentiments do hold a tiny kernel of truth, but the fact remains, I have often spent hours looking for a valuable piece of information that I can't find. I heard that when all those wasted hours are added up, we can spend as much as 6 weeks of time total in one year looking for things. That makes even the most unorganized person (like me) cringe! It’s not that I don’t want to be organized, I do. But, I consider organization to be work and work is something that takes effort...and then…well…it’s so much easier to lay down that piece of paper rather than using up much needed brain cells to figure out where the paper goes. Besides, in order for me to file I need folders that are labeled and a place to put them and that takes t*i*m*e...the 4-letter work most full time authors don't have in their vocabularies.
As an author, I need to be somewhat organized in my business as well as my personal life. I have used many systems; in fact I feel I’ve tried just about every suggestion that made sense to me. At one time I used notebooks, tabbing important pages with sticky notes or using dividers that I created or purchased. Then, I switched to file cabinets but I have never liked files. When I tired of the file cabinets I went to baskets in matching styles but in various sizes. I even organized the children’s toys in baskets and I loved the way it looked. The problem with baskets is you can easily dump an a sundry of items that don’t belong…quicker than you can say, “clean up now!”
I enjoyed using the baskets for my business as well. The end of the baskets came when then, new accountant walked into my office, and looked with disdain at my baskets overflowing with papers, and said in a no-nonsense voice, “You have got to be kidding me.” She quickly requisitioned file cabinets, folders and a system that I still have in place, today. I still insisted on a basket for office supplies, and miscellaneous items.
My favorite way to organize is digitally. I make back-ups upon back-ups of computer information. I have crashed more external hard drives than I care to mention. I seem to have no problem creating a folder on my computer and placing the appropriate pieces of information neatly where it belongs. Although, I have to admit, old habits remain and when I’m in a hurry, everything goes on the desktop to be organized at a later date. I quickly drag the files in the appropriate folders and if there isn’t one I quickly make and label a new file. Why can’t life be so easy? Just drag and drop.
Here are some techniques I have used that work very well for those oh so important bits of information that every author needs.
1. Place important information I need to access soon in a file folder, in a free standing hanging folder on my desk. I can label a new folder or use a catch all to keep those scraps that would otherwise clutter my desk. When I need a that paper, I remember where I “threw” it, retrieve use it and then file it if needed or place it back in the file to use again.
2. Important phone numbers: Easily my cell phone is the best place for numbers, but then I sync my phone to my computer and I print out my list to place in a 3-ring notebook. I have clear business card holders in the back from networking events, or from customers, vendors, or clients. I love this for ease of use. I can grab the book and find everything quickly. I use this one book for multiple businesses, but you may choose to separate home and business.
3. General Important business information: this notebook is for information I don’t need everyday but it is useful to have access when needed, such as: copies of my tax ID number, information about how to file specific information online, passwords, and copies of business licenses, ISBN numbers, and trademark information, etc.
I invite you to listen to my recent interview with prolific author, Cindy Rushton, as she shares her organization techniques with the listening audience. It was wonderful show. Listen here: http://www.WritingandPublishingRadio.com
That’s all for now…I think you have enough to get started or better yet, if you have a great technique, please post it below so we can all learn. I have made great strides in getting organized and find it is a daily struggle, one I hope to conquer one day soon! Maybe I need to write a book on organization, that is one way to become organized (or at least tell others how to do it!) Until next time, keep writing!
Friday, June 26, 2009
Public Speaking: Learning is Half the Fun.
In a Nutshell:
Where do you learn how to become a good public speaker?
In front of a mirror, with a small audience and feedback, and professional organizations. Don't forget: having a good dose of enthusiasm helps.
If you are an author the idea is to sell books, and lots of them. If you have a speaker's platform you are ahead of the game. You have an avenue to talk about your passions, whatever they may be, and to hopefully entice the listener to purchase one or more of your products.
Many times speakers don't talk about their book specifically, but perhaps one or more key points contained in their manuscript. How do you obtain a speaking platform if you are an unknown speaker? Just about everyone was an unknown speaker at one time. Developing your seminar is half the battle, convincing someone to let you speak the other. If you have a winning presentation, and can create a digital product, this can help. Give out copies or email it to potential prospects looking for speakers.
In an earlier post I discussed obtaining a platform and some ideas to get you started. Read it again, and I invite you to listen to an audio-interview of Jonathan Jeffus, the web and program designer of our website http://www.ScholarSquare.com. Scholar Square is a video-presentation website where anyone can post a presentation and charge for it, or sell a product with their presentation. The audio can be heard on the Scholar Square website. He covers some key ideas about the value of video presentations.
I recently had coffee with a friend who hosts her own radio show on fiance. She is an expert in the area and at one time was a bank V.P. I asked her how she became so comfortable with public speaking. Her answer? After college knowing she needed to work on those skills to compete in the corporate world, she joined the organization Toastmasters. My own children have completed Toastmasters with great success.
The key elements to a good presentation is multi-fold. I will be interviewing a communication expert, Jo Jo Tabares on my upcoming Blog Talk Radio show on July 6th. If you are interested in learning great speaking techniques, you won't want to miss this show found here: http://www.WritingandPublishingRadio.com
Where do you learn how to become a good public speaker?
In front of a mirror, with a small audience and feedback, and professional organizations. Don't forget: having a good dose of enthusiasm helps.
If you are an author the idea is to sell books, and lots of them. If you have a speaker's platform you are ahead of the game. You have an avenue to talk about your passions, whatever they may be, and to hopefully entice the listener to purchase one or more of your products.
Many times speakers don't talk about their book specifically, but perhaps one or more key points contained in their manuscript. How do you obtain a speaking platform if you are an unknown speaker? Just about everyone was an unknown speaker at one time. Developing your seminar is half the battle, convincing someone to let you speak the other. If you have a winning presentation, and can create a digital product, this can help. Give out copies or email it to potential prospects looking for speakers.
In an earlier post I discussed obtaining a platform and some ideas to get you started. Read it again, and I invite you to listen to an audio-interview of Jonathan Jeffus, the web and program designer of our website http://www.ScholarSquare.com. Scholar Square is a video-presentation website where anyone can post a presentation and charge for it, or sell a product with their presentation. The audio can be heard on the Scholar Square website. He covers some key ideas about the value of video presentations.
I recently had coffee with a friend who hosts her own radio show on fiance. She is an expert in the area and at one time was a bank V.P. I asked her how she became so comfortable with public speaking. Her answer? After college knowing she needed to work on those skills to compete in the corporate world, she joined the organization Toastmasters. My own children have completed Toastmasters with great success.
The key elements to a good presentation is multi-fold. I will be interviewing a communication expert, Jo Jo Tabares on my upcoming Blog Talk Radio show on July 6th. If you are interested in learning great speaking techniques, you won't want to miss this show found here: http://www.WritingandPublishingRadio.com
Monday, June 15, 2009
Marketing Strategy 5: Join the Club!
In a Nutshell: Join groups for the ability to network and learn at the feet of those more seasoned and willing to share their knowledge.
Ah...networking. The key to making or breaking deals is the art of communication with customers, those in similar trades or fields, and even those in direct competition with you. How do I know? I belong to many groups, both online and off.
In college (okay, that was awhile ago), I was quickly taped to become the president of my sorority my sophomore year. Why? Because I was so popular? No, because anytime there was any job to be done, big or small, my hand was up. “I’ll do it!” Wisely, the adult, advisor quickly vetoed the idea and it wasn’t until my last semester of my junior year that I took the reigns. I was also the leader of many other on-campus organizations. I'm a joiner, a leader and a hard worker.
A pastor once told me that ten-percent of any given congregation does the work for the other ninety percent. The same holds true for many organizations. But, this is a detriment to an author wanting to become published.
Years ago, when my husband and I were purchasing a piece of investment property, a gentleman nearing retirement gave us some wise advice. He pointed to a young man who brought our paper work in to us, with a smile and an offer to get us something to drink. The banker shared that this young man was not the one who was suppose to bring in our loan documents, in fact, he didn’t even have to offer to get us something to drink. He was a go-getter and when there was something to be done, no job was too big, too small, or too beneath him. The man smiled and said, “That young man is going places.” And, I’m sure he is correct. Are you going places?
If you join a group, ask yourself not only what you hope to get out of it, but how you can be of help. I missed my opportunity as a new author, because no one shared this information at the beginning of my journey. As a newly published author I had my hands full. I was speaking, writing additional publications, more speaking, shipping, finding vendors to carry my product, distribution outlets, etc., etc. It never occurred to me that if I networked with others I would sell more books. In fact, it wasn’t until about two years ago that I joined several Christian publisher's groups. What a difference that made!
Now I was speaking not only in live venues, but online in virtual venues. I was selling books, e-book products and the like. I had hesitated to turn any of my “precious” books into e-book fearing they would be copied and shared. Yes, I’m sure this still happens. Yet, seeing that many, many other authors have e-products convinced me to give it a try. Currently only three of my books are in e-book format, and it has been a successful endeavor.
These groups have been on the forefront of news about customer protection issues, printing savings, editors that offer services for a discount to those who are members of the group. There have been many requests for free items from those in the group, all of this is on a voluntary basis. But, by giving away a “freebie” (and you can be sure my name is in that document, url links to my website, blog, and shopping cart, with additional offers of free downloads), there has been a huge increase in my newsletter subscription, and book sales have increased.
In fact, book sales have been on the increase this year in a down economy. Why? Because, those of us with quality products, those we are passionate about, tend to give 100% and more. I directly answer questions sent via my website. I may not get to them the day they are sent, but you can be sure I answer my customer emails before I chat with a friend online. Customer product, delivery and service need to be impeccable for an author that is self published.
Okay, so let’s say you want to obtain a royalty publisher. No problem. You still need to help your publisher sell, and the groups you join will be author groups, not publisher groups. These groups will help you to see what other authors are doing, join forces with them for book signings and learn at their feet if you are a new author. A friend who wrote a wonderful fantasy book for children went on a book tour with several other fantasy authors. Are these books competition? Perhaps, but if you have a great product you should never fear competitors. As a new author people did not know his name. In going as a group, these authors were able to share expenses, gather larger crowds and obtain great photo ops.
You may not have a book yet, so what? Joining a group is one way to get the word out when you book is completed. It may even give you some friends wanting to read your book and give some honest feed back. But, be careful. Make sure you don’t trust just anyone. I read a blog the other day by a veteran author who saw a newly published book whose back cover copy was very similar to the plot in her soon-to-be released book by a royalty publisher. She just about fainted and quickly ordered the book to make sure the plot lines were different. They were. In the fiction world it is very difficult to be original, especially with the amount of books already published. She was afraid she’d be accused of plagiarism, since the other book was already out.
A last word of caution; if you are a new author I would highly recommend you read back posts, and several weeks of current posts before you jump in with a question or comment…unless it is an area, or field in which you truly are an expert. Otherwise, you will find that no one will answer your post. Not that all posts are answered or commented upon, only that you want to start with your best foot forward.
If you haven’t joined me every Monday afternoon at 3:30 EST on my Blog Talk radio podcast, please do. I am having a blast!
Ah...networking. The key to making or breaking deals is the art of communication with customers, those in similar trades or fields, and even those in direct competition with you. How do I know? I belong to many groups, both online and off.
In college (okay, that was awhile ago), I was quickly taped to become the president of my sorority my sophomore year. Why? Because I was so popular? No, because anytime there was any job to be done, big or small, my hand was up. “I’ll do it!” Wisely, the adult, advisor quickly vetoed the idea and it wasn’t until my last semester of my junior year that I took the reigns. I was also the leader of many other on-campus organizations. I'm a joiner, a leader and a hard worker.
A pastor once told me that ten-percent of any given congregation does the work for the other ninety percent. The same holds true for many organizations. But, this is a detriment to an author wanting to become published.
Years ago, when my husband and I were purchasing a piece of investment property, a gentleman nearing retirement gave us some wise advice. He pointed to a young man who brought our paper work in to us, with a smile and an offer to get us something to drink. The banker shared that this young man was not the one who was suppose to bring in our loan documents, in fact, he didn’t even have to offer to get us something to drink. He was a go-getter and when there was something to be done, no job was too big, too small, or too beneath him. The man smiled and said, “That young man is going places.” And, I’m sure he is correct. Are you going places?
If you join a group, ask yourself not only what you hope to get out of it, but how you can be of help. I missed my opportunity as a new author, because no one shared this information at the beginning of my journey. As a newly published author I had my hands full. I was speaking, writing additional publications, more speaking, shipping, finding vendors to carry my product, distribution outlets, etc., etc. It never occurred to me that if I networked with others I would sell more books. In fact, it wasn’t until about two years ago that I joined several Christian publisher's groups. What a difference that made!
Now I was speaking not only in live venues, but online in virtual venues. I was selling books, e-book products and the like. I had hesitated to turn any of my “precious” books into e-book fearing they would be copied and shared. Yes, I’m sure this still happens. Yet, seeing that many, many other authors have e-products convinced me to give it a try. Currently only three of my books are in e-book format, and it has been a successful endeavor.
These groups have been on the forefront of news about customer protection issues, printing savings, editors that offer services for a discount to those who are members of the group. There have been many requests for free items from those in the group, all of this is on a voluntary basis. But, by giving away a “freebie” (and you can be sure my name is in that document, url links to my website, blog, and shopping cart, with additional offers of free downloads), there has been a huge increase in my newsletter subscription, and book sales have increased.
In fact, book sales have been on the increase this year in a down economy. Why? Because, those of us with quality products, those we are passionate about, tend to give 100% and more. I directly answer questions sent via my website. I may not get to them the day they are sent, but you can be sure I answer my customer emails before I chat with a friend online. Customer product, delivery and service need to be impeccable for an author that is self published.
Okay, so let’s say you want to obtain a royalty publisher. No problem. You still need to help your publisher sell, and the groups you join will be author groups, not publisher groups. These groups will help you to see what other authors are doing, join forces with them for book signings and learn at their feet if you are a new author. A friend who wrote a wonderful fantasy book for children went on a book tour with several other fantasy authors. Are these books competition? Perhaps, but if you have a great product you should never fear competitors. As a new author people did not know his name. In going as a group, these authors were able to share expenses, gather larger crowds and obtain great photo ops.
You may not have a book yet, so what? Joining a group is one way to get the word out when you book is completed. It may even give you some friends wanting to read your book and give some honest feed back. But, be careful. Make sure you don’t trust just anyone. I read a blog the other day by a veteran author who saw a newly published book whose back cover copy was very similar to the plot in her soon-to-be released book by a royalty publisher. She just about fainted and quickly ordered the book to make sure the plot lines were different. They were. In the fiction world it is very difficult to be original, especially with the amount of books already published. She was afraid she’d be accused of plagiarism, since the other book was already out.
A last word of caution; if you are a new author I would highly recommend you read back posts, and several weeks of current posts before you jump in with a question or comment…unless it is an area, or field in which you truly are an expert. Otherwise, you will find that no one will answer your post. Not that all posts are answered or commented upon, only that you want to start with your best foot forward.
If you haven’t joined me every Monday afternoon at 3:30 EST on my Blog Talk radio podcast, please do. I am having a blast!
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