Tuesday, June 12, 2012

HOW TO MARKET YOUR NOVEL

I generally despise how-to posts.  It's the reason after two years I've rarely posted one.  But I recently received an email from Geoff Nelder, a writer who entered a monthly writing contest I ran on this blog back in 2010.  He felt his honorable mention in my contest helped get him a book contract for his novel, Left Luggage.  He thanked me for running the contest and offering attention to relatively unknown writers. 

I think he may have overstated my influence in his accomplishment, but it brings me to the genesis of my topic: What are the best ways to market your novel?  Facebook? Okay.  Twitter?  Fine.  Ads? Sure, why not.  Blog? Eh.  What am I getting at here?  The fact is, I don't believe any one of these things can garner big sales all by themselves.  And all together they amount to name recognition, but not much more.  What I found to be the best method of getting your name out there is to find other authors like yourself and help them out.  And I'm not talking about sucking up to people for pure reciprocal purposes.  I'm talking about sincerely promoting people who you believe are good writers with good reputations.

This blog originally began as a monthly contest for writers to get exposure for their work.  I offered a $50 Amazon gift card each month to the winner of the strongest scene. (Yes, that's where the title came from.)  I never charged a submission fee and paid for the gift card out of my own pocket.  Why?  Because I thought it would help promote other writers.  Period.  There was no ulterior motive.  Then, I became so inundated with submissions I couldn't find time to write, or spend time with my family, or eat regularly, so I turned to interviewing writers instead.  I interviewed John Locke before he was John Locke--Rick Murcer, before he became an Indie sensation--and Robert Bidinotto right before his career took off as well.  I always do the research and ask specific questions for each author and it pleases me to see their careers progress.

So is this the best method of marketing yourself?  Getting to know other writers and developing relationships with them?  Yes, I believe this is a grass roots way to gain attention from other writers and therefore tapping into their readers' radar screen.  Am I saying you need to start your own blog to make it happen?  No.  A simple Facebook share every now and then for a writer trying to get their books noticed is good.  A Retweet.  A Facebook "Like."  These all add up.  Again, pick someone who you respect and believe deserves attention.  Don't expect anything in return.  It's a good gesture and that should be its own reward.  For me, I was able to receive a nice blurb from John Locke for my books.  Rick Murcer actually thought enough of my work that he invited me to participate in an anthology with six other writers.  I was very humbled.  Did I expect any of these things?  Of course not.

Maybe the most important part of this concept for me was the friendships I've developed.  I'm online less and less these days, but I do try to keep up with people like Claude Bouchard and Luke Romyn and Stuart Ross McCallum.  These are writers whom I first met when starting this blog and I still try to help them whenever I can.  I've read their work.  They're fine writers. 

See how this works?         

10 comments:

  1. Gary, I'm most touched by the mention, particularly since it comes from you and you've listed me with the likes of Luke and Stuart, both fine writers indeed. By the way, having read your three Nick Bracco novels, you are certainly included in this quality circle. Thank you, my friend. :)

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    1. Claude, you get this concept very well. The fact that you've read all three of my novels tells me you weren't just looking for something in return. No one invests that kind of time as a favor. You were supporting a fellow writer and found an interesting series in the process. A win-win. Thanks much. I always appreciate your support.

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  2. I forgot to mention Mike D'Angelo in this post. He has tremendous talent and I'm always amazed at his writing ability. One of the few writers I've met online and then actually met in person. He can be a little kooky with his online presence and that's what I like about him as well.

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  3. Gary, you gave my thriller HUNTER some early time in the spotlight, and I'm deeply grateful for that. And I was delighted to return the favor with this fine background interview of you about six months ago. I continue to be inspired by your example, and like so many authors, thankful for your kindness and help.

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    1. Robert, it was my pleasure. One thing I hadn't even mentioned, nor have I even told you this before, but when Hunter became the Editor's pick back in Decemember and you had that great run up the Kindle charts, my first novel, A Touch of Deceit, came along for the ride. You see, I think your readers read your interview on my blog and saw my books and so when Amazon chose Hunter to highlight, my book was on the first page of your book page--under, "Customers who bought this item also bought." I know Hunter topped out at like #2 for overall Kindle sales. A Touch of Deceit actually reached #98 on overall sales. I can't prove it, but that's what I believe happened.

      Again, that interview was done to help another writer, but look how it came back to help me by complete accident. Promote others for the right reason and good things can happen.

      Thanks for chiming in, Robert. Looking forward to the sequel.

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  4. Gary, your grasp on social networking and genuinely connecting with fellow writers who you find interesting, without some warped ulterior motive like, what can they do for me, is why we instantly hit it off. I, like our good mate, Claude, am deeply touched to be mentioned in a group of such fine writers and people.I couldn't agree more with your post, as I believe social media should be just that, social. Working together for a good outcome for all.

    Thanks Gary!

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    1. Yeah, Stuart, thanks. You've been very supportive of me and my work, so it's easy to see why people like to stay connected with you. I know you're on the other side of the globe, but it feels like you're right next door. Best wishes to you and your family.

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  5. BRILLIANT! I actually have practiced this same thing since a successful writer gave me a hand up by recommending me to my agent over a decade ago. I try to help others whenever I can, but I love the reminder you give here. And you're right - it has to be done without expecting something in return. That's when it works the best!

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    1. Hey, thanks Judy. Very sweet of you. I hope all is well in Michigan. 106 in Phoenix today.

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  6. I know I'm late but thanks for the mention here, Gary, especially alongside such other incredible authors. You're an inspiration to a lot of writers, and your selfless nature will see you go a long way in life.

    Unfortunately we sometimes get so caught up in our own little spheres that we forget how many other little fiction-creating bubbles are floating around out there. If we all joined forces, imagine where we'd end up.

    All the best,

    Luke Romyn

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