We've been talking about the little odds and ends that beginning writers NEED to know, but often aren't TOLD. Things that it's useful to know about to avoid making mistakes. At this point, we have managed to sell our first novel to a publisher, get through the editing process, and review the eARC and galleys. We're picking up today with what you should be doing AT THE SAME TIME YOU'RE PREPPING FOR RELEASE. So. Back at the ranch...
Meanwhile, you and your
publisher are working on the public relations and publicity campaign.
Start making appearances before the book is released if you want to
build buzz. Build a website. Blog. Tweet. Face. Space. Link. Plus.
Pin. Good. Net. Ning. Tag. (If you don't know what I'm talking about,
you need to find out.) If you can find a way to get your name out
there, and to get your book’s name out there, do it.
After the book comes out,
you get to do the interviews, talks, and book signings. Most of the time YOU have to schedule these. If you can afford a publicist, it helps. If not, network like crazy. (See building buzz, above.) Ask for reviews from bloggers and interviews from bloggers and BlogTalkRadio hosts. Those are good starts, and they're a good way to get the hang of interviews.
Somewhere in there, you
start writing your next book. Yes, you heard right. You write your next book. Otherwise it will be delayed and the fans you start accumulating will become bored waiting.
Tidbit Seven: You NEVER
really get done. Because since you're now writing your next book, you're starting all over again. But there's one difference: you have an "in" now, with your publisher - and it's you. You are now your own "in." This is a good place to be.
Tidbit Eight: Once you’ve
realized Tidbits One through Seven, congratulations. You are now an experienced,
professional author.
Feels good, doesn't it?
-Stephanie Osborn
http://www.stephanie-osborn.com
