Writing a good nonfiction book is a tremendous accomplishment. The same goes for putting in the time and effort to create a well-trafficked blog. One of the biggest challenges writers and bloggers face is getting exposure for their work. Marketing your book or blog to your potential audience is a critical task that can determine its success or failure.
Nothing is more frustrating than figuring out how to get people to read the content you’ve spent so much time preparing. Getting involved in social media can give you increased exposure and get you increased revenue. Here are some comprehensive steps to follow to get more readers.
1. Figure out the online and offline patterns of your potential readers.
It is important to understand your readers—what books or blogs they’re reading, what websites they’re visiting and what magazines they’re checking out. Also, track the most popular sites for information sharing. When readers and followers share your work, its exposure goes up exponentially.
You can get involved with online communities by writing reviews and contributing articles. Offer readers a sample chapter of your book or a link to a blog article you are particularly proud of. Their reviews and shares will go a long way.
2. Collaborate with similar authors and bloggers.
Every successful blogger or author is well-connected. If you want to achieve a level of success, it must be a priority for you to do the same.
Find other blogs or authors that cover similar topics. Study their work and understand how they promote themselves. One way of connecting is by reading their material and leaving comments on their sites. This can help you attract more visitors to your own platforms. Reaching out to them can also open up guest posting and other opportunities.
3. Create a website.
We live in a digital era and being active online is a necessity. Begin researching your topic and you’ll soon discover other interesting sites. Launch a website and blogging platform (if you don’t already have one). Create your website under your name. If you are an author, have a book URL that drives traffic directly to your book page.
4. Get involved with Social media platforms.
If you are a new author or blogger, it may seem difficult to build a strong social media following for your brand. But once you do, the exposure these platforms create are well worth the effort.
Create a presence on as many networks as you can manage. Start with Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. If you are an author, it is a good idea to get involved with open submission writing platforms such as Scribd.com. These also connect you with other writers and readers.
For authors, Goodreads is a useful platform. It is solely dedicated to reading and rating books. The viral nature of Goodreads can drive some great cross-exposure for your book.
5. Endorsements go a long way.
An endorsement by someone recognizable—a celebrity, well-known blogger, author, etc.—can get potential readers to sit up and notice. If a famous online personality mentions you in their blog or shares your credentials, your readership can increase drastically.
Authors seek endorsements before sending their manuscripts to a publisher or agent. This can help the query letter or proposal get read and not just added to the bottom of a slush pile. Testimonials also help sell books to publishers and readers.
Reviews, too, are critical to a book’s success. Social media can play a pivotal role in getting shares and reviews for your material. A good review from a well-known personality is sometimes all it takes to launch your book or blog.
6. Attend conventions and other events.
Conferences and conventions are not just for established authors and bloggers. They can provide a networking tool for newbie writers and bloggers as well. Besides interacting with other bloggers and authors, attendance gives you the chance to meet potential readers and promote your work.
At these conventions, you can make valuable contacts and obtain tips to improve your work. You may also gain useful information about marketing from other writers through informal discussions.
7. Strive for media exposure.
If you are starting out as a blogger or author, there’s no such thing as too much publicity. The more social gatherings, book signings, and events you attend, the more likely you are to make meaningful connections. Write guest posts for other blogs, and seek out radio or print interviews.
Embrace the power of digital networking. Create groups on social media sites. Or create lists in your email marketing system so you can send email blasts to friends and acquaintances. Contact alumni associations of your former schools and colleges to see if they can put the word out on your blog or book.
Add your social media links to all offline publicity material. Your goal must be to create as much buzz as possible for your work. Explore paid advertising on other websites and social media platforms. With these ads, it is easy to track results make sure you are getting value.
In Conclusion
Following these seven steps can put you on the path towards achieving your goals. Succeeding as a blogger or author involves hard work and dedication. To get to the point where your material has a large readership base, you may need to overcome numerous obstacles. It is important to stay motivated and keep going in the face of adversity. The pleasure of seeing your book published or your blog succeed — of having your work read — makes it all worthwhile.
About the Author
Nancy Grace is a social media writer at iDigic.net who also contributes to hundreds of other blogs. Her articles predominantly focus on social media and are widely followed by readers from all over the world.
Copyright: iqoncept / 123RF Stock Photo
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