Connect with Your Audience Through Smart Networking
The “six degrees of separation” concept theorizes that every person on Earth can be linked through six acquaintances or connections. Networking your way to these influential people can not only jump start your book marketing efforts, it helps you build a lasting support system.
Learn from Successful Authors
Your first step is to get out and meet other writers. Learning how successful authors connect with their audience will help you focus your efforts in the right direction. Attend local book signings and readings for these authors. Support them by sharing their links on Facebook and Twitter. By building a relationship with your writing community, you can tap their wealth of knowledge when needed.
Follow That Blogger
If you don’t already, follow bloggers who are passionate about the topics your book covers. These don’t have to be other writers but people who love the same things you’ve written about. Their readers are your readers. Share their blog posts on your social media platforms and other online accounts. These bloggers have a good perspective on what your common audience likes or dislikes.
You Got to Love a Good Bookstore!
Staging events at local bookstores is a great way to form a solid support system. These shops have a loyal customer base who regularly turn out when invited by the owner. These are avid readers who are willing to give local authors a try. Getting on the bookstore’s already crowded event calendar may be challenging but keep at it.
The Influence of Teachers and Librarians
Don’t underestimate the power of local schools, colleges or libraries. Teachers and librarians help to influence what books are featured in classrooms and on shelves. They can also encourage students to attend events like readings and introduce your work to new fans.
Widen Your Networking Scope
The people who can influence the success of your book aren’t just other authors, bloggers or store owners. They can be people who share a common interest in your book’s subject matter. If you wrote about the Civil War, local historians and civic groups can also aid in your marketing efforts.
Give Back and Pay It Forward
Your relationship with networking contacts is built on a mutual respect and values. It is an authentic bond between individuals that share a common interest. It is not a one-sided exchange. By sharing and supporting their work, you are giving back to them for the help they’ve shown you. Always remember to pay it forward when a person approaches you, asking questions about their book.
Surround Yourself with People Who Can Help
If the six degrees of separation concept rings true, the influential people who can help your marketing efforts are close at hand. Making the connection is the key. Get out, network local events and meet people. Connect with your readers online and in person to expand your brand. Marketing your work is a non-stop job but with the right people helping you, it can be extremely successful and vastly more rewarding than going it alone.
Why Dog Ear?
With over fifty years of traditional publishing experience, Dog Ear Publishing, has the influential contacts to give you a competitive edge marketing your book. We understand what it takes to get your book in front of the right people. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff will guide you throughout the publishing process and help you achieve the results you desire. If you want your book to be a quality reflection of who you are as an author, visit our website at dogearpublishing. today and take control of your publishing destiny.