I'll bet you thought I planned to actually answer this question about promotion. Nope. Problem is, I don't know the answer. Many publishers ask what an author's plan is to promote their book should they offer them a contract. What is their "platform?" The only platform I ever had were on my shoes in the seventies. And they hurt. A lot.
As far a promotional ideas, authors are bombarded with choices. Of course, you need a Web site. And a blog. (That's what this is!) And then there's Facebook and Twitter. I don't consider myself stupid, but I just can't figure out Twitter. I post some inane comment and then what? It disappears into cyber space? I don't get it. Now, I happen to like Facebook. I've connected with friends I thought were long gone. And I've made some friends I'd like to see go. (Quit spamming me! And quit asking me to "like" stuff! I don't "like" that!) But all in all, I'm enjoying it.
So what's an author to do?
I've done almost everything there is to do promotion-wise. I wrote reviews for the largest newspaper in Kansas thinking that would promote my books. Nope. I've joined all kinds of groups hoping everyone on the list would run out and buy everything I've ever written. Nope again. I've discovered one thing every author will learn quickly. If you're hoping a big group of authors will buy your books, forget it. We're all too busy writing them to actually read them. But belonging to a group of authors provides something else. Encouragement, advice and networking. And sometimes friendships. But promotion? Once in a while. Two lovely ladies, Cindy Woodsmall and Wanda Brunstetter highlighted me in their newsletters. I didn't ask for it, they just did it. And other authors have included me on their blogs. I used to run a review/interview blog with the lovely Cindy Hickey, but I got too busy and had to stop. Don't know if any of the authors we interviewed sold books, but I've found that the results of those experiences are minimal.
Other ways I've tried to promote my books? Contests. I won the American Christian Fiction Writers' Book of the Year Award for Mystery in 2009. (Now called The Carol Award.) That book didn't sell more than any of my other books.
What about book signings? Please. They're great for meeting readers - if they show up. Usually, the only people who come are your put-upon family and friends who tramp out in rain, snow or whatever, just because they love you. But we still do book signings just in case an unknown reader wants to meet their favorite author. It could happen. Sigh.
And I realize Karen Kingsbury doesn't have this problem. But I'm not her. Yet. (S)
I may have sold a few books through Facebook. None through Twitter. And reviews? They may actually help - when it's Publisher's Weekly or Romantic Times. I've done well with Romantic Times. PW? Well, moving right along...
I will continue to post on Facebook, and I'll keep up this blog. I think. As long as someone comments once in a while. (Hint, hint.) But to be honest about it, the only thing I've ever found that really helps book sales (unless you become a serial killer or act inappropriately with the President of the United States - neither one I'm willing to do) is a great publisher who works hard to promote your books. I've had that in the past and hope to have the same in the future. These guys know what they're doing. They have relationships with the stores, and they can promote in ways an author will never be able to do.
So, I'll continue to do my part, but I don't want to spend writing time promoting. I'm of the opinion that my job is to write good books. My publisher's job is to promote. If my books aren't good, no promotion in the world will help. Now one note: any promotion my publisher asks me to do, I will gladly do. Cooperation is key. But let them do the lion's share of selling my books. They're the experts.
Now I realize this concept doesn't work with every publisher. I have great compassion for authors who self-publish or work with small publishers. I have no advice for you. I've been there. It's tough. Unless you write "The Shack" or fall back on the serial killer / presidential hanky-panky thing, you have a long, hard road to hoe. I don't envy you. I always advise writers to keep working toward that big publisher that can move your career forward.
And that's all I have to say about that.
Just wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and hoping you will remember the "Reason for the Season." Do we concentrate too much on turkey and pumpkin pies? Shouldn't we honor the One whose love makes us really thankful?
I am so thankful to Him for my salvation. If that was all He ever did for us, it would be (and is) awesome. That the God of the universe, the Alpha and Omega, loved sinful man enough to suffer and die for him, is almost beyond comprehension. But His continued love and incredible blessings make me almost speechless. God, our Father, loves us more than our own human fathers possibly could. I pray you will come to Him as a little child - believing that He is good. All the time.
Remember Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Father God, help us to come to You every day as a little child, trusting and believing in Your goodness. Many times we complicate the simple message of love with human ideas and theological gibberish. Keep our faith childish and our trust in You deep. In Jesus wonderful name - Amen.
Well, my latest novel has been sent to the publisher and now work begins on the next one. I have two months to write it – during the holidays! So, how do I handle the pressure? Simple. I don’t. I believe I’m fulfilling the call on my life and that God will give me whatever I need to complete it. Am I perfect in this area? No, wish I was. But at least I know what to aim for. The Bible tells us over and over not to worry or fret. And that without faith it’s impossible to please God. So what are my options? Hmmmm. There are none. So, I purpose in my heart to enjoy my writing, and I believe everything will turn out all right. Does this mean I can just sit back and watch TV all day? No, it means I have to do my part. To strive for excellence. But it’s also my job to make sure I’m resting in His promise to complete that which concerns me. I see too many authors straining under incredible stress, even unhappy with their writing life. I don’t intend to be one of them. I try to thank God every day for giving me the best job in the world, and if I start to feel stressed, I work to change my attitude. However, there is another aspect to being able to walk out your calling in peace and contentment. It has to do with your ability to say “no.” We’ve looked at the guilt that can come at us when we say "no" to activities at church. Now, let’s look at a tough subject: our friends.
Although a lot of people think being an author is fun and glamorous, it's not. It's hard work and requires a great deal of discipline. Readers may think we’re fighting off friends and fans with a stick. But it’s not true. To meet my writing goals, I have very little time for outside social functions. For the most part, my closest friends are the people I work with through Wichita Homebound Outreach, a volunteer organization I’m part of. We do monthly events for low-income seniors who live in congregate housing. And everyone in the group knows there are times I won’t be able to show up to an event or run a meeting. Asking someone else to help lead this group has helped. But even with this assistance, sometimes I still have to say “no.” Thank God for friends who understand. Now, what about other friends who want to have lunch, go out to a social event, or even call me on the phone? This is where it can get touchy.
It’s hard to say “no” to friends, and it’s even harder to develop close relationships when you don’t have much time to spend with people. Again, I’m blessed in this area because my friends understand. One long time friend, Leslie, sees me once every few months. Yet every time we get together, it’s like we just saw each other the day before. This is a divine connection. A God inspired friendship. I have a few of those. Do I take them for granted? Yes. This is one area of my life I’m working on. What’s the answer? I have some friends I used to work with, and we get together for lunch once a month. This gives me time to catch up. Works great for us. I’m working on a plan to have lunch out a least once a month with other friends on an individual basis. At least it will keep me in touch. Other ways to keep the fires of friendship burning? Emails, Facebook, and even an occasional greeting card can help. As I type this I realize I can come up higher in this area as well.
Let's talk phone calls. DNC. Do not call a busy author. I realize this isn’t true of everyone, but I share this feeling with many, many other authors. Why? Because I could be writing. Because if I’m not writing I might be trying to spend time with my husband. I'm on a tight schedule, and I can't possibly schedule a sudden phone call. Email me, but don’t call. Or email me with a request to call. For the most part, if you call, you will get voice mail. I’ll call you back when I can. I know this sounds harsh. Don’t get offended. Please.
Now, since handling friendships is an area I’m still working on, let’s see what ideas you have! Once again, I’ll draw a winner from the suggestions. This time, a signed copy of Simple Secrets AND a signed copy of Simple Deceit. Just in time for Christmas! Go for it…(S)
Okay, so maybe "hate" is too strong. But busy writers do have to say "no" frequently. Writing is a job unlike many others. Butchers, bakers, and candlestick makers can usually stop between projects and do other things. But writers work in an environment that demands continuity. In other words, it's not always possible to stop in the middle of a plotline and take a break. Unless you make really good notes, interrupting your direction can cause you to lose your flow. And then there's that dreaded deadline thing. A deadline is a deadline. It's not a suggestion. Note the word "dead" being the first part of the word. Publishers view deadlines seriously, and serious writers respect publishers. Without them, your next book may only be read by you, your closest family members, and the lady with all the cats who lives two doors down. I've only asked for a deadline extension three times. Once when the size of a novel was extended 3,000 words by my editor, another time when the manuscript was actually due on a Saturday and I asked if I could turn it in on Monday when the publisher was actually open. And recently when I discovered that the time between the book I'm finishing now and the next book for the same publisher was only two weeks. I mean, I'm fast, but give me a break. I had a vision of Norman running up and down the stairs, bringing me bread and water, and slapping me awake while yelling, "The deadline's coming, the deadline's coming!!!" Not a very happy scenario. LOL! (And my publisher DID extend that deadline. Now I have two months to write a book. Sigh.) So...obviously when you're working under deadlines and need long periods of uninterrupted time, there are some things you just can't do. Times when you will have to say "no." Let's look at one area that causes a lot of consternation to authors and church leaders alike:
1. "No, I can't help clean the church, lead the Bible study, do street ministry, or join the praise and worship team."
Now many authors do these things and write. It isn't impossible. I have a ministry to seniors which I'll talk about in an upcoming post. But for someone who used to be very active in church, my life is much different now. I used to lead praise and worship, I was a youth minister, and yes, I even cleaned the church. I loved doing all these things. But no one can do it all. And let me make one thing very clear. MY WRITING IS MY MINISTRY! For those of you who think authors are selfish, self-involved people who just don't care about anyone else...you're wrong. At least in my case. I'm sure most Christian authors will agree with me that writing is their number one ministry - next to their families. You see, my books will get into the hands of a lot of people. Probably (and hopefully!) more people than are in my church. It's my calling to offer my readers a lifeline to Jesus. I put every book into God's hands and ask him to bring a word in due season to every single person who opens the pages of my books. So when I say "no" to a church project, it isn't because I don't care. It's because I'm trying to fulfill the ministry God has called me to. Most of the time, I will buy something the church needs or write a check to fulfill a need. So, I do get involved, but I have to do it in a way that protects my writing time. And there may be occasions when God says, "I want you to say 'yes' this time." When that happens, I will be obedient because it's all about Him, isn't it?
I do have another ministry, btw. Wichita Homebound Outreach is a ministry I helped to start. We host monthly dinners and events for low-income seniors in public housing. It's rewarding, and I love working with some of the best people in the world. My fellow WHOers know that there are times I won't be available. A couple of years ago, I asked for someone else to become co-president of WHO so some of the administrative duties would be lightened. My friend, Debbie, stepped up and has been a godsend. I'm very committed to this group, but for the most part, I'm not afraid to say "No!" when I have to. *One interesting note: We're getting ready for our busiest time of the year. We actually have five different events in November and December. And I have to write a book by January 15th. I may have to pull out my "NO!" card like the woman in the picture I posted for this blog. It won't be comfortable, but if I have to, I have to. (Or I could just ask Norman to fill in for me. Honey??????)
Thought I'd tackle the church/ministry part first because it's one of the most sensitive subjects for authors.
But...next time I'll take on the personal relationships. Oh, my.
(By the way. Everyone who posts a comment to this blog will be entered into a drawing for a signed copy of "Simple Deceit," my brand new book!)
Norman and I are very busy setting up the bones of our business. He’s putting together a database that will hold names and addresses of people who might want to be notified of upcoming book signings or other author events. We’ve updated our phones and ordered a new computer. (Mine bit the dust.) Also, Norman is applying for a sales tax number so we can begin selling signed books. We’re discovering that there’s a lot of work to selling books. How much to charge so we clear a profit? How do readers pay? What about tax and postage? Do we set up sales info on our Web site or on our blog? Whew. This stuff isn’t easy. And this is only the beginning. Our “To Do” lists are long and will take some time to work through. With everything that’s going on in the background, how do we stay on track with the primary job of turning out good books people will want to read? Here are some suggestions to help a busy author:
1. Have a private, quiet place to write. Trying to create an excellent novel in the middle of all the busyness around you can make your job almost impossible. And your partner MUST know that when you say “Do not interrupt me unless the house is burning down,” you mean it. My husband loves me, and sometimes this means he has a hard time not sharing whatever pops into his head during the day. Slowly but surely, he’s learning that writing is a process and that sometimes breaking my concentration can mean I have to go back through many pages to pick up the current plotline I’m working on.
2. Know when to say, “When!” That happened to me this weekend. Too much to do. Too much stress. I pulled the plug. Yes, I wanted to turn my current novel in today, but I just couldn’t do it. The true deadline is the 15th, so I’m taking a deep breath and giving myself the full amount of time if I need it. Unfortunately, that only gives me two months to write my next book, but I’ll have to deal with that later. I need to focus on today. Matthew 6: 34 says: "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Of course, we know that God doesn’t want us to worry about anything, but this verse reminds us that we only need to think about what’s happening now. Things change. In the past, I used to fret over certain disasters I saw lurking on the horizon. I mean, I just knew these awful things were going to happen. They’d been set in motion, and in my mind, the dreaded results were inevitable. Then one day, God spoke to me and asked this question: “Has it (meaning this bad result I expected) happened yet?” I thought about it and had to answer “No, Lord. It hasn’t happened yet.” Then He asked another question. “Is everything okay today?” Hmmm. I considered this. My response was: “Yes, Lord. Everything is fine today.” It didn’t take any further comment from Him for me to get His point. TODAY my needs are met and there is nothing to be concerned about. So, I quit (for the most part) worrying about tomorrow. The result was more peace in my life and the surprising discovery that most of those impending catastrophes never manifested. First of all, God has proven to be much better at solving problems than I am. However, we’ve got to release them first, and if we’re worrying about them, obviously we haven’t given them completely to Him. Big mistake.
3. When I crumbled under the pressure of my self-made deadline, Norman sat me down and told me to give him a list of things he could do to help keep the pressure off of me. I’m working on that, although asking him to finish this book probably won’t happen. LOL! But one thing I did ask was for him to keep an eye on my work schedule. If he sees me writing all day and through the weekend, he needs to step in and offer some words of wisdom like: “Get dressed. I’m taking you to a movie” or “We’re going out for a nice leisurely dinner.” It can be anything that will force the harried writer to look at something besides a computer screen for a while. If you have a workaholic personality like mine, it’s helpful if your mate/business partner recognizes it and steps in to protect you against yourself.
I’ll save some other suggestions for my next blog, but just be advised that working with your mate is kind of like going to Disney World by traveling through a mine field. If you’re careful, you’ll be dancing with Mickey. But if you’re not, Goofy may be picking up the pieces and burying your dreams in Neverland. Not a good place to end up. (S)
Next time: Saying “No.” How to lose friends and influence people to hate you.
