Once you join the writing community on the various social media platforms, you will start to notice all the crafty ways fellow authors are pitching their books and building their brand. But if you’re like me and you just finished your first manuscript, how do you push your brand out to the masses without a published book?
First, let me tell you that it’s perfectly normal to feel intimidated. When you join the writing community and realize the tens-of-thousands of people chasing your same dream, you’re going to think twice about the emotional and time investments you’ve put into your manuscript. When you realize a lot of these folks have 4, 5, 10, or even 20 books already published (either traditionally or self-published) and ready to push, you will feel majorly disadvantaged. At that point, you will feel like you’re staring up at an impossible-to-summit mountain that is dotted with 15,000 people who have a huge head start!
Breathe.
Everyone must start somewhere.
Note: I did not take this advice. I totally freaked and wasted about three weeks wallowing in self-doubt. But I am here to tell you that it is okay. You can build your brand and a following without any published works to offer. How? Roll up your sleeves! It’s going to take a little work.
Step 1: Be Yourself
Feeling anxious? In desperate need of coffee? Have questions about the process because you are new? Let the community know! With thousands and thousands of writers out there – you have a huge support group who can relate to where you are in your journey and who are willing to help you! Also, open up and share your personality with these fine folks. You will quickly realize the most annoying authors are those who never engage or post anything other than retweets of where to buy their books. Yes, we all need to push our works. But if you are blowing up my feed with nothing but BUY! BUY! BUY! you are going to get MUTED! MUTED! MUTED! by me. Instead, share who you are, where you are in your process, and seek advice. You won’t be disappointed by the responses you receive from this lovely community.
When you ask a great question or make the perfect funny, this lovely bunch will like and retweet away - helping introduce you to all their followers. All you have to do is get your posts out there, and they will help expand your brand!
Step 2: Stay on Point
While you absolutely want to follow the first step and be authentic on social media, do remember that your author page is separate from your personal accounts. Share your experiences about writing. Try not to overrun your writing posts with other bits on a million different topics.
I’m not saying never to discuss sports, celebrities, or politics (especially if you write in those areas). I’m not saying don’t post cute pictures of your pets and family. I am just suggesting being careful not to water down your brand with too many non-writing posts. Remember, every post forms your image. Your image is the foundation of your brand. Your brand is the heart of your marketing strategy.
Step 3: The Golden Rule
You know the one: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
It’s simple. If you want others to follow you, be willing to follow them. If you want people to engage with you, engage with them!
True, this takes time and effort. You need to seek out fellow members of the writing community and push that follow button over and over. You need to find tweets and posts you can respond with, and craft those response to entice others to follow you!
Tip: Set your Twitter feed to show you the latest tweets. This way your witty response won’t get buried at the bottom of 60 other responses!
Step 4: Set Daily Goals
I’ve just recently put this one to practice. After topping 1,000 Twitter followers, my mind sort of relaxed. While working on querying, researching for my new book, working a day job, and living life – I let social media slip.
Now, I’m back with a purpose! I’ve set a goal to pick up 50 new followers a day on Twitter and 25 on Instagram. How? See Steps #1, #2 and #3!
The best advice I can give you is to get out there and engage. Talk about what you’re doing and how you’re feeling. Ask for advice. Share some tips. Be serious. Be funny. Be you!