4 Basics that Might Revive Your Writing by Diana Flegal

In a recent EPCA newsletter I came across an article link celebrating a 23 year old book becoming a New York Times Bestselling title.

Dr. Henry Cloud’s title Boundaries hit the list after a marketed campaign that you can read about here. Rob Eagar, marketing consultant to authors, publishers, and non-profits, helped Dr. Cloud spread his message further than it had previously reached.

Just goes to show this marketing thing might be worth the effort after all.

So please, when your agent or conference workshop leader offers you advice for building your social media presence. Take a look and see what small thing you can do to bring attention to your expertise.

And keep to the basics:

#1: Write a good book:   Boundaries is a great book. I read it and have recommended it often.

#2: Surround yourself by a group of objective people/ critique group and listen to them

#3: Believe in yourself, but be willing to learn new things continually

#4 Never quit/ be willing to rewrite/ take a class/ begin fresh

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hooked by Andy Scheer

I often coach writers how to attract and hook readers. This past weekend I found myself viewing promotional material as a customer – and I'm pleased to report my experience matches the theory.

Browsing the literature tables between appointments at a writers conference, I didn't expect to find a title I wanted to buy. I own enough unread books to keep me busy for more than a year.

Then I saw the five by seven promo card displaying the cover of a January release. One glance convinced me I needed the book.

I took in a mid-1940s New York street scene including Harlem's Apollo theater where Sarah Vaughn was headlining. The title type of “Nobody Knows” immediately evoked the famous spiritual – which I didn't realize was connected with Harry T. Burleigh. Nor did I know that Burleigh, as the subtitle proclaimed, was “one of the most influential figures in American music.”

But from multiple interactions at conferences I did know the author, Craig von Buseck. His credibility as a writer sealed the deal. As a student of American music of the early twentieth century, I needed this book.

The back of the card's display type and short paragraph further convinced me of the decision I'd made in less than ten seconds. This story would deliver the kind of information I want to know.

For me the endorsement by Eric Metaxas, the author of the bestselling biography Bonhoeffer, was redundant. By that point, the evidence in favor of purchasing Nobody Knows was pressed down, shaken together, and running over.

That evening I sat with Craig and asked him for details – some previews of the story I look forward to reading. I took a few additional cards since I know a professional singer who gives educational concerts on historic African-American composers and musicians. She doubtless knows others who will also want to buy the book.

Craig outlined his plans for the book's launch. I suggested multiple ideas, but they all matched ones he'd put into place. Considering how well he'd hooked me as a part of his target audience, I shouldn't be surprised.

The early months of next year will tell if Craig's plans succeed. As always, God gives the increase. But Craig's put himself in a position where success shouldn't come as a surprise.