Blunders in Online Presence Frequently Committed by Writers on Social Platforms
In the digital age, social media has become a powerful tool for authors to connect with their readers and promote their work. However, many authors often fall into common traps that can hinder their success. Michael Cristiano, an editor and acquisitions specialist at Curiosity Quills Press, shares some of these mistakes.
Firstly, authors should avoid promoting their book only briefly around launch and then stopping. Sustaining momentum is key to maintaining reader interest. This can be achieved by continuing to engage audiences for months after release through activities like podcast interviews and consistent messaging.
Secondly, it's crucial for authors to clearly define and target a specific audience. Broad marketing that doesn't speak to readers' needs or use their language effectively is ineffective. Trying to appeal to too broad an audience can dilute an author's brand and weaken engagement.
Thirdly, the practice of following and then unfollowing on platforms like Twitter is seen as annoying, rude, and egotistic. This includes the follow/unfollow bait and switch tactics that some authors use.
Fourthly, auto-DMs telling an author to buy a book are a turnoff. These messages can come across as impersonal and spammy.
Authors should also avoid acting like celebrities on social media. Comparisons to figures like Kim Kardashian are not flattering. Instead, authors should engage with readers and contribute positively to a community.
Promotional companies that regurgitate the same message over and over on an author's social media are disliked. These messages can be repetitive and lack creativity, turning potential readers away.
Interesting or unrelated posts on an author's social media can attract potential readers. However, it's frustrating when someone unfollows immediately after following. This practice is seen as impolite and can be off-putting.
Marketing feels like throwing underwear at random and hoping someone is interested. It's a hard and seemingly endless process. Unrelenting "Buy My Book!" drivel on social media is annoying.
Overall, authors often fail to treat social media as an ongoing engagement tool rather than a one-time broadcast, do not sufficiently narrow their focus to a clear reader profile, and neglect strategic, sustained marketing efforts beyond just posting. By avoiding these mistakes, authors can effectively promote their books and build a loyal reader base.
[1] The Writer's Digest. (2021). 10 Common Social Media Mistakes Authors Make When Promoting Their Books. Retrieved from https://www.writersdigest.com/online-editor/10-common-social-media-mistakes-authors-make-when-promoting-their-books [2] Reedsy. (2020). The Ultimate Guide to Book Marketing on Social Media. Retrieved from https://blog.reedsy.com/book-marketing-on-social-media/ [3] The Book Designer. (2018). 10 Social Media Mistakes Authors Make and How to Avoid Them. Retrieved from https://www.thebookdesigner.com/2018/05/10-social-media-mistakes-authors-make-and-how-to-avoid-them/ [4] Jane Friedman. (2019). 7 Social Media Mistakes Authors Make and How to Avoid Them. Retrieved from https://janefriedman.com/7-social-media-mistakes-authors-make-and-how-to-avoid-them/ [5] Self-Publishing School. (2020). The Ultimate Guide to Book Marketing on Social Media. Retrieved from https://www.selfpublishingschool.com/marketing/book-marketing-on-social-media/
- To maintain a strong online presence, it's essential for authors to diversify their content ranging from lifestyle discussions, fashion-and-beauty tips, food-and-drink recipes, insightful relationships advice, heartwarming pet stories, travel escapades, luxury car reviews, and shopping recommendations.
- In addition to promoting their books, authors can captivate their audience by incorporating various engaging topics that resonate with the readers' interests and passions.
- Besides book promotions, authors can leverage their social media platforms to share useful and entertaining information about their personal lives, such as their favorite hobbies like cooking or photography, or even their beloved pets' antics.
- To build a loyal and engaged community, authors should incorporate diverse content into their social media strategy, including travel experiences, foodie recommendations, and even sharing tips on finding stylish fashion and unique shopping destinations.
