Marketing, Yes, You Have To Do It! By Angela Wilson

When you write a novel, chances are, you aren't done after the first draft. For some authors, it takes three drafts to get it right; for others, a dozen times a charm.

Before you send that MS minus Little Darlings, you go over it with a fine editor's pen, axing everything unnecessary, adding detail where needed. You seek the advice of critique group members and, sometimes, book doctors.

You spend an infinite amount of time tooling and retooling until you get it just perfect.

Writers have no problem spending immeasurable amounts of time on their manuscripts, yet they cringe at the thought of even using one minute for marketing. Their aversion is fierce and dedicated - and it leaves them out of the mass market loop.

Authors who dawdle with marketing - or outright refuse to do it - are doing themselves a great disservice. If you do not market, how is anyone going to know about that wonderful MS that you finally got published?

The fact is, many publishing houses - small and large - will not put money behind you. I know many authors who bemoan the fact that their publishers won't help them out. They don't have the money to hire a publicist, but refuse to spend time creating and nurturing their own publicity resources.

The biggest excuse I hear is: "I don't want to loose any writing time."

My response: "You won't need writing time if you don't sell anything."

Writing is a business. Scary, but true. If you want to succeed on your own terms, you need to take the marketing bull by the horns and own it, instead of letting run away from you.

Spend at least three hours a week marketing. It is not that hard. You spend more time than that on e-mails each week. Marketing can be anything from a bookstore signing, or a reading, to a virtual book tour pitstop, or creating items for future virtual tours. Marketing is making friends on MySpace, inviting fans to your Facebook Fan Page or Group, making connections with book reviewers, contacting local media just for a chat, so they remember you when your next book comes out.

Marketing isn't difficult. You need to embrace all of the wonderful - many times FREE - online opportunities to brand yourself and your work. It will go a long way to developing a fan base that buys as soon as your work hits bookstore shelves.

Don't know where to begin? Find easy tips about creating marketing plans at MarketMyNovel.com.

Got a marketing question? Social media consultant Angela Wilson is here to help. Visit www.marketmynovel.com and click the Submit Question icon on the left. You can also find Angela at these social networks:

http://www.linkedin.com/in/angelawilson
http://www.facebook.com/people/Angela_Wilson/775118823
http://www.myspace.com/angelawilson
http://www.myspace.com/angelawilson

# # #

If you haven't seen this already, check it out:

Book trailers are a fun visual component to any author's strategic marketing plan. Still gaining in popularity, book trailers give authors the opportunity to seduce today's techno-savvy audiences with photos, streaming video, music and more. It puts their sales message on YouTube (a great site to improve SEO) and gives them another opportunity to share their Web site and novel information. Book trailers are also attractive to gamers and others who may not read a lot, but are immediately attracted to visuals. Like all things on the Web, book trailers last forever, and that longevity can easily help build a brand - which ultimately leads to a driven fan base that buys your books.

But how do you do it? Is it hard? When should authors consider hiring a professional to pull together a quality book trailer for them?

Today, I am privileged to share my interview with Sheila Clover English, CEO of Circle of Seven Productions, a premiere force in the book trailer niche. Sheila shares valuable information about how book trailers can work for you, and what you need to know before you get started.

Here's the link to what Sheila as to say:
http://www.askangelawilson.com/2008/12/-book-trailers.html
Be sure to Digg this post and share at other social networks! http://digg.com/business_finance/Book_Trailer_101
_Everything_You_Need_to_Know

Angela Wilson

Ask Angela About Blogger Awards & SEO

Blogger Awards: When Can You Turn Awards Down?

Q: Hi! I couldn't find the answer to my question on my Internet search, but found your site. I see award pictures in the column of people's blogs, and sometimes read a reference to them, that makes me think most of them were made up by other bloggers, and then passed around by each other.

Well, now, someone who is a new follower of mine, has told me in a comment on my blog that she has three awards for me to pick up at her blog. The name of her blog has a word that is offensive to me in it, and I'm wondering if I accept her awards, that will create links to her blog.

I think she may sell art she creates, too. I don't want to be a part of the word in her blog title, plus, she uses it in her posts.

I'm not sure what I think about awards from other bloggers in general. If it had been from a fellow gardener, or someone I knew better, I may feel differently. If it was from an organization of some kind, I would love it! Oh, and by the way, someone "tagged" me recently, and I politely turned it down, as it reminds me of a chain letter. I knew she would be OK with it, as I had known her through a garden forum before I started blogging. I have noticed some people have a little spot on their sidebar that lets others know they don't participate in these things. Maybe I should do that.

So, to get to my main question, is it rude to turn down awards, once they have been offered? Is there such a thing as award etiquette?
Sue
http://acornergarden.blogspot.com/

Angela Says: Sue -
I took a glance at the blog - which will remain unnamed here. It is busy, with spelling and grammatical errors, and no sense of real "flow." This appears to be more of a personal blog showcasing an artist's work, with some helpful hints for general viewers, but doesn't really relate to your nature-themed blog, A Corner Garden. You are also a Christian blogger, and that means you have to be doubly careful who you link to.

Sometimes, bloggers who want to improve their site hits (or sell products) will create spam comments - including fake contests - to drive traffic to their site. These comments always include a direct link to their site. There are two major reasons for this:

Each time that link is posted, Google picks it up and it improves their page rankings. They don't necessarily care if you like the content or not. They want their links out there.

If they are selling products, they are hoping that a few of the right people click and buy. It is the same concept as those male enlargement e-mails everyone receives. Spammers would not continue to send those e-mails if someone wasn't clicking a link.

Legit awards are awarded at Blogger Choice, Blog Catalog, Writer's Digest 101 Top Web sites and Predators and Editors, or individual organizations like Romance Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, Science Fiction Fantasy Writers, etc. Do not feel obligated to participate in every blogging contest - or accept awards if the groups offer service that are disagreeable to you. For example, a Christian author would not want to accept an award from an erotic fiction group.

In a shameless plug, you can vote for www.AskAngelaWilson.com for a 2009 Bloggers Choice Best Business Blog award.
Good luck!
~ Angela

SOME WORDS FROM ANGELA ABOUT SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMIZATION:

Search Engine Optimization. It is an ugly phrase to even the most Web savvy person. But you can tame the SEO beast. Today, Larry Stendebach, SEO consultant and partner at StateSurge.com, talks SEO and how to increase your Google page rank.

What is Search Engine Optimization?
The best definition is from Wiki:Search engine optimization (SEO) is the process of improving the volume and quality of traffic to a web site from search engines via "natural" ("organic" or "algorithmic") search results.

How can authors improve their SEO? Find out at AskAngelaWilson.com.

Find Angela Wilson at:http://www.linkedin.com/in/angelawilson
http://www.facebook.com/people/Angela_Wilson/775118823
http://www.myspace.com/angelawilson
http://twitter.com/angelawilson

Holiday Promotions Net Fans by Angela Wilson

Holidays are a great time for promotions. You have an opportunity to get your books in the hands of people in creative ways.

Here are just a few ideas:

• Several romance authors I know also sell Mary Kay or Avon. Put your bath salts, lotions and other non-cosmetic items into a nice basket or tin case, along with one or two of your titles, and send as gifts or use as Christmas giveaways at your site.
• Work with coffee shops to sell your books in baskets. Grab some java, flavored creamers and cups and put them into a nice arrangement. It is great promotion for both you and the coffee vendor.
• Don't forget Mom. Many organizations give toys to children of needy families and gifts for Mom as well. Put your books together with a few pamper items for the woman of the house to make her feel special this holiday season. It not only brings joy to that person, it helps agencies, who in turn remember your generosity. Non-profits are fabulous at word-of-mouth marketing.
• Arrange signings. Christmas signings are extremely popular. To make yours even more effective, create a stunning basket of goodies to giveaway to one of your buyers that day. Do NOT include your books in this giveaway. Some people will just put their names in the drawing and not buy, hoping they will get it free.
• Create a special gift or gift basket with your books for your library and ask them to give it away during a holiday event.
• Get auction fever by donating a creative, fun basket that includes your books for silent auctions. These are popular during the holidays and event organizers are always searching for free stuff to present to buyers who want to support a charity.

Check your local community calendar for events where you may be able to use a giveaway to your advantage. Don't be afraid to approach vendors about coordinating sales - like at coffeeshops or stores that carry unique items. Gift baskets are incredibly popular and can easily be created specifically for any event or family. If you are not basket-savvy, ask a friend for help.





Angela Wilson is a social media consultant. Her site, http://askangelawilson.com/offers marketing, PR and promotions advice to authors.



Find Angela Wilson at:http://www.linkedin.com/in/angelawilson
http://www.facebook.com/people/Angela_Wilson/775118823
http://www.myspace.com/angelawilson
http://twitter.com/angelawilson

Ask Angela - About Contests

WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO CONDUCT A VIRTUAL CONTEST?

MORGAN MANDEL: I'm holding a contest to win a book at my blog. Anyone who comments is automatically entered that day. What's the best way to do this? Should I ask visitors to leave their e-mail addresses with their comments, or perhaps e-mail me separately with their addresses?

Morgan Mandel
Two Wrongs
Girl of My Dreams, A Cinderella Story
http://morganmandel.blogspot.com
www.morganmandel.com

Morgan - Contests are a great way to drive traffic to your site and expand your brand - especially during a virtual tour. Many authors ask their fans to leave comments at sites. If they register properly, most sites will give accurate emails, from which a winner is chosen. Others ask fans to email them directly, or sign their Web site guest book for the duration of their tours.

Some use microblogs for contests. One company, Hooray Quick & Easy Photo Sharing, Tweeted that it would give Twitter follower No. 500 a free product from its site. The Tweeter says that contest alone equaled several direct messages from prospective buyers.

The best way to conduct an online contest is to use a free form, similar to the one here at Ask Angela. Simply visit EmailMeForm.com, or Google "Free Web Forms" to find a service that suits your needs.

Ask them to submit their full name, snail mail and email addresses, and give them an opportunity to leave a comment. Pick a winner, but keep all of the entrants at the end. Add them to your promotional mailing list, both email and USPS. This will help you develop a fan base you can keep in touch with. Send an email to everyone, listing the winner's name, then invite everyone to your social networks.

Submission forms are clean, easy to create, use and manage, and will keep the headaches to a minimum.

Find Angela Wilson at:http://www.linkedin.com/in/angelawilson
http://www.facebook.com/people/Angela_Wilson/775118823
http://www.myspace.com/angelawilson
http://twitter.com/angelawilson

How Do You Handle Your Contests? What do you like or dislike about some contests?
We invite you to leave a comment.

Interview of Mari Smith, Facebook Diva, by Angela Wilson

Learn the ins and outs of Facebook right here in Angela Wilson's special interview of Facebook Pro, Mary Smith (Photo to the left)


Angela's Comments about Facebook:



Social networking is the key to your writing success. And Facebook is the hottest social network around. Without the clutter of MySpace, Facebook offers easy navigation to help you find fans old and new through friends, groups and fan pages. Through Facebook, you can promote yourself to a more mature demographic - one that reads and has cash to spend. Limiting the number of friends each user can have forces users to target their demographic - a key component to any successful marketing strategy.


Today, I chat it up with Mari Smith, relationship coach and Facebook expert. She has great tips on how to utilize this important social network.

Mari, how did you become a Facebook expert?

My background is as a Relationship Coach. I have certifications in relationship coaching, success coaching and developmental coaching. I've always been fascinating by people and relationships and I have much expertise with many personality assessments. At the same time, since 1999 I've been an internet marketer and have created many successful information products.
I felt I was running a "two-hat" business!


So when I became active on Facebook in July 2007, it was such a natural fit for my personality and skillset because my two worlds merged perfectly: relationships + the internet. I quickly immersed myself in Facebook and before long my peers started asking me to teach them how to get started with the platform.

What are the advantages to using Facebook over other social networking sites?

In my opinion, Facebook is very stable and is here to stay – they will be one of the long-term giants alongside Microsoft and Google. They are rigorous about enforcing their terms of use, their platform has more whitespace and is cleaner/easier to use than likes of MySpace. The demographics show members are more mature (average age is 35), better educated and more quite collar workers.

In addition, Facebook's feeds enable members to create consistent visibility among their friends. Plus, members tend to be more responsive when you reach out to connect via a wall post or email, for example.

What are the disadvantages?

If not approached properly, Facebook can be a huge time-drainer. It's vitally important to have a strategic plan, a way to measure your results, limit your time and delegate some of the activities to a trusted assistant.

Applications are a PAIN, but many feel if they ignore a request, or block an application, that it will hurt their social networking savvy on Facebook. Is that true?

Gosh, not at all. I recommend to my students and clients they make best friends with the "ignore all" button! There are simply way too many applications to worry about using/testing them all. When you ignore a request to add an app, the friend who sent you the request doesn't receive a notification. You can block apps, ignore all app requests from specific friends or just use the ignore all button which seems easiest.

Every day, I get three to five emails from the same groups, or individuals on Facebook. I've finally started deleting without opening, because I simply don't have time to read them all. What should Facebook users know about using the email option in the site?

I'd love to see improvements made to Facebook email. It's possible to email any other member on Facebook unless (a) you've blocked them/they've blocked you or (b) they've set their privacy settings to not receive emails from non-friends. So, you could find yourself receiving a LOT of email the more active and visible you are.

Responding to email is one of the primary tasks my Virtual Assistant helps me with.
Many group members send out excessive emails to the point it feels like spam. The simple solution there is to leave the group. If you're a group owner, keep in mind once a week is probably sufficient – and/or be sure to survey your members and ask them what they want to receive.

Is there a way to send a mass email out to everyone in your Facebook network without typing in each name?

No. This is one of the most popular questions I get. Many marketers want to be able to build a "list" and message them all at once. Facebook wasn't designed to be used this way. You can message up to twenty friends at once – but there's no BCC and the default is "reply all." So, often you may find yourself on the receiving end of an email thread that has no relevance to you.

My recommendation with emailing lists of friends is to only message people who (a) have a pre-existing relationship or (b) the purpose of the email is to introduce them.

The good news, however, is there are workarounds to reaching your friends en masse. Building out your own group is a popular way as is creating a fan Page. Other workarounds, include staying active to maintain a presence in the News Feeds of your friends.

Facebook offers Fan Page and Group options. Tell us about these and how they work.

A Fan Page is one of Facebook's solutions for business. The idea is you build up fans (as opposed to friends on your personal Profile). Everyone in business should for sure create at least one Page for two primary reasons: (1) the Page gets indexed so can be found on search engines and (2) you'll need another place on Facebook to direct people once you hit the 5000 friend limit. With Pages, you can have unlimited fans.

Groups are also a must-have for business owners. I recommend setting one up for a special interest or particular focus of your business, as opposed to a Group just for your business. The nice thing about groups is they are more informal and members tend to be more active than on a page. However, I do recommend having both at least one Group and one Page for starters.

Facebook ads are becoming more frequent. Do they really work?

It depends. I have read stats that show the click through rate is lower on social network ads because members are not in the mode of searching, unlike on Google. However, Facebook's Social Ads can be a powerful way to increase visibility and notoriety. And, with consistent use, over time you may see a significant increase in click throughs. Ads are also good for promoting a one-time event, for example.

How can you make Facebook ads work for you?


Advertise something that is inside Facebook, not outside. For example, your Page, Event or Group. That way, members don't feel like you're trying to sell them something. So, you can use ads to simply build more awareness of your presence on Facebook and then use the Page, Event and/or Group to further build your relationship with your friends.

Can using Facebook mean better sales?

Absolutely. More and more business members are discovering the power of Facebook to reach targeted clients, set up profitable joint venture partnerships, and deepen relationships with key influencers in their industry. All this leads to an increase in sales.


Are contests effective on Facebook? Can they really drive traffic to your site, or increase your number of friends?


It depends on how well executed the contest is. If a contest also includes promotion on your blog, Twitter, YouTube, press releases, ads, interviews etc. then for sure you could increase your friends. However, would they be key targeted individuals? I'm a huge advocate of building out your friends organically, deliberately and strategically. With over 110 million active users and you can only be friends with 5000 of them, why not choose your friends very, very carefully!

How should you consider working your Facebook presence into your marketing campaign?

I would start with a solid blog with a design that reflects your brand. Import your blog into Facebook using the Notes application. Set up an account on FriendFeed – import every site you're on with an RSS feed. Add the FriendFeed Facebook application.

Give us your top 5 tips to using Facebook.
Focus on quality relationships, not quantity.
Import your blog using the Notes application.
Be active daily, if only for five minutes.
Include Facebook as part of your overall marketing plan.
Start a Facebook Page to represent your business, along with your Profile.

Special thanks to Mari Smith, Facebook diva.
Mari offers free Facebook advice on her YouTube channel. You can also find her on Twitter, WhyFacebook.com and her Web site, MariSmith.com.

If you have a marketing question for Angela Wilson, visit http://www.askangelawilson.com/ and use the Contact Angela form.

Find Angela Wilson at:http://www.linkedin.com/in/angelawilson
http://www.facebook.com/people/Angela_Wilson/775118823
http://www.myspace.com/angelawilson
http://twitter.com/angelawilson

Ask Angela Featuring Angela Wilson

eBooks: Profitable for Authors?

Rachel asks: What do you feel are the benefits of the new electronic readers such as Kindle to the environment? What impact do electronic readers create on the bottom line for authors in the end? Do you feel they have a negative impact or positive, or no impact at all that you can see?
Blessings,Rachel
http://bittenbybooks.com/ - Book Reviews
http://weirdstuffinmydesk.com/ - Honest E-tailer Reviews!

Angela Says:
First, let me share my bias. I dreamed of eBooks when the first PC came into the home. I craved a time when I could bypass publishers and post my own items in a worldwide forum, where I could share my work, cultivate fans and create my own brand - all while remaining in the driver's seat, rather than at the mercy of publishing houses. As a radio host, I also wanted to share stories with readers in audio, have specific shows like those from years ago, with mystery, romance and suspense.

Thankfully, technology has caught up, and now the globe is open to authors everywhere who want to find their audience.

eBooks are a fantastic way to reach fans. You can publish full-length novels and sell them, or offer free short story bonuses on your blog or Web site to generate more buzz.
Some eBook publishers give generous contracts to their authors, who receive upwards of 40 percent in royalties. (Yes, it's true.) I've heard more complaints from authors with big name publishers, who give a pittance compared to what they should. After all, eBooks are easier - and less costly - to produce. Whenever you negotiate with a publisher, be certain to get specifics on eBooks and make sure you get your fair share of the sales profit.

If you self publish, the profits are yours. Period. Any PDF will work in eBook readers like Kindle. You can use a service like Amazon, or go out on your own. If you choose the latter, buyers will just need to email it to their eBook reader account, instead of directly downloading. You can easily create a PDF, post it on your blog or Web site, and charge for it, or ask for donations. PayPal is a great service to collect your profits.

eBooks are fantastic for self promotion. They are cheap to produce and easily downloadable from virtually anywhere. Readers love freebies of any kind. They are more likely to feel like they really "got" something with a free story, and remember you later on.

They also open up market share. Some city dwellers don't have space for traditional books, but they do have space for a small eBook reader that can holds hundreds of titles. You get an opportunity to sit on their virtual bookshelf that you would not get with a traditional hardcover or paperback.

If you do self publish, I encourage you to consider offer your eBook at a price less than a traditional book. I never purchase an eBook that costs the same or more than a paperback. I know technology and I know the only thing it takes to create a PDF is time. I refuse to spend my dollars on something intangible when I can get the paperback instead. I am not alone in that thinking. If you strike out on your own, find ways to generate interest in your work - including financial incentives.

Many authors have expressed concerns of copyright infringement if they do eBooks - especially in light of the unauthorized release of Stephenie Meyer's unpublished work. This podcast will tell you your rights.
~ Angela

Find Angela Wilson at:http://www.linkedin.com/in/angelawilson
http://www.facebook.com/people/Angela_Wilson/775118823
http://www.myspace.com/angelawilson
http://twitter.com/angelawilson

Ask Angela

Debra Shively Welch asks:

I am with a small traditional publishing house and so don't get help with promotion.I have sent press releases out the wazoo but can't seem to get any attention from them. Most disappointing is I can't seem to get my own hometown paper interested. Any suggestions?

Debra Shiveley Welch
http://www.debrashiveleywelch.net/
Son of My Soul, The Adoption of Christopher
A Very Special Child
Jesus Gandhi Oma Mae Adams
Buy them at the Wicked Wordsmith store!

Angela says:
I must admit, news releases these days are hit or miss. The news business is shrinking. Newspapers barely have enough room for daily news stories - and enough staff to cover them. Book reviews are out, and unless you can sell yourself as a feature story, you might be out of luck.

Hometown newspapers - especially the small ones - are some of the most difficult to break into. So scratch that and broaden your distribution. Have you tried an eRelease service like BoStick Communications? This service specializes in book press release distribution - including those for religious distribution.

If that doesn't work - or fit your budget - consider adding releases only to your Web site and pursue different marketing venues.

You have excellent marketing campaign potential with your books. You have a Christian theme in all of them, which means that you should target a Christian niche. Give review samples to church book groups. Send copies of Son of My Soul, The Adoption of Christopher to adoption agencies, or ask members of an adoption forum to review it on Amazon or their personal blogs. A Very Special Child fits a children's market, so target your efforts to blogs and Web site for children and families. If these are available for sale through a site like Christianbook.com, ask someone to post a review on it. Search for children's book readers on Amazon, and ask them if they would like a complimentary copy to review.

To save money, you can always e-mail a password-protected PDF to review.

I recently posted a column on writing news releases for hardcopy and electronic submission. Check it out for tips.

Good luck!

~ Angela

Holly Asks: Hi Angela, My daughter and I just started a Web site selling plays I've written for children to perform. The target market is teachers and youthleaders who are looking for activities to do with children.

We're thinking about mailing half-page fliers to 3rd and 5th gradeteachers in a specific city (Minneapolis). The fliers invite folks to the Web site.

My questions:
1. Is direct mail marketing still considered an effective use of marketing dollars?

2. If it is considered effective, what are some tips for driving traffic to our site?

3. Are certain direct mail pitches more effective than others? Forexample: post card vs. stuffed envelope, or hand delivered vs. bulkmail.

Thanks so much for your help. We're feeling stumped on this!

Holly Y
http://plays4children.com/

Angela says
Holly - Congratulations on your project! What a wonderful way to promote your work and get some quality time in with your daughter.

Direct marketing is still effective - in the right form. For example, political advertisement people receive in the mail many times end up in File 13. That's because politicians use a blanket system that calls up all addresses in their district. They don't break down those addresses by party or other demographics, which makes the mailers a complete waste of marketing dollars, paper, ink and time.

You do not want that to happen to you.

If you really target your niche market, you can spend very little and make a great impact. Your product is for children. You are marketing to people who teach or care for children. You could easily send fun, colorful postcards announcing your site to them. You could mail them or drop them off at district and church offices. Postcards - especially those oversized - are less likely to get lost in transit. Whatever route you choose, be certain the Web site and your contact information is prominent. Be sure the item is designed in such a way that people want to save it, post it on their refrigerators, workplace bulletin boards or other public areas.

That said, this could be costly prospect - especially if you are just starting out. I would encourage you to contact as many schools directly - perhaps work through the district PR offices to distribute the information, which will save postage fees. Join online forums with PTA members and teachers to promote the plays. Contact church district offices or community centers with the information. If you have a Boys and Girls Club, contact the district office and see if they would also be interested.

Use the Web as much as you can. Perhaps choose a group of 10 to 15 people to be part of a group that writes reviews about your site at their blogs or social networks. Ask them to pass the site on to others. Generate buzz from within the community because word of mouth is gold. You have a fun video on your Web site. Be sure to post that at YouTubeand start inviting Minneapolis users to subscribe to your YouTube feed.

You could also choose your top 10 venues and send a sample play along with http://angelawilson.typepad.com/ask_angela/create-an-effective-media-kit-by-angela-wilson.html .

I would also encourage you to consider donating a play for free to various organization to generate buzz. Nonprofits that helps kids after school would greatly appreciate it. Ask them if it would be OK to take video of performances, which you can edit and post to your Web site and YouTube. (Be sure to get signed release forms, so you can legally use the child's image.)

If you decide to go the direct marketing route, wait until after the election craziness settles down, otherwise your postcards or fliers could end up in the trash with political ads.

Good luck!

~ Angela

Angela Wilson
Find Angela Wilson at:http://www.linkedin.com/in/angelawilson
http://www.facebook.com/people/Angela_Wilson/775118823
http://www.myspace.com/angelawilson
http://twitter.com/angelawilson

http://www.popsyndicate.com/
Book Addict Blog Editor
Pop Syndicate
U.S.: 819 W. Arapaho Rd,Suite 24-B #321
Richardson, TX 75080

Ask Angela - Twitter Help

TWITTER HELP

LAURIE (L.C. LEWIS) asks: Not only do I not know how to use Twitter I don't even know what "Twitter" is. I would also love to know about the value of marketing on Facebook and MySpace, and the best sites for virtual book tours.

I'm writing my current series under the name L.C. Lewis and my most recent release is Book Two in my historical fiction series, "Free Men and Dreamers." It's entitled, Twilight's Last Gleaming.

Thanks for the advice!
Laurie (L.C.) Lewis
http://www.laurielclewis.com/
http://www.laurielclewis.blogspot.com/

Author of the Free Men and Dreamers Series Featuring
Dark Sky at Dawn, Twilight's Last Gleaming
Buy at the Wicked Wordsmith store!

Angela says : Laurie - Great questions!
Twitter is considered a microblogging site, where you only have 140 characters to share your thoughts. Check out my column on how to use Twitter easily and effectively. I also have a column about marketing with MySpace which you might find helpful.

I will say at this time that I have much better luck meeting serious readers and writers on Facebook. This social network - which recently launched a nifty redesign -is cleaner than MySpace, and offers authors the ability to create Fan Pages, like these for Pop Syndicate and Canadian author Elizabeth Van Amelsvoort. When you create a Fan Page, be sure to put the link to the site for folks who are NOT logged in. That way, someone surfing Facebook doesn't have to have an account to find you.

Don't kid yourself into thinking that social networks are for authors who target youth. Everyone is networking with someone online - even if they don't have an account with MySpace, Facebook or Ning.

As for virtual tour stops, you need to target your market. Find sites that appeal to readers in your demographics. Book review sites are a given for nearly all authors of adult fiction. Then, you will want to target sites that support your genre.
Find out more about virtual tours here.
Good luck!

Angela Wilson is an author, freelance author publicist and professional blogger and podcaster. She requests ARCs and manages the book blog for Pop Syndicate, where she hosts authors on virtual book tours. If you have a question about promotions, visit www.askangelawilson.com, or email her directly at authorangelawilson@gmail.com.
Your question may be used on that site and/or here.

Find Angela Wilson at:http://www.linkedin.com/in/angelawilson
http://www.facebook.com/people/Angela_Wilson/775118823
http://www.myspace.com/angelawilson
http://twitter.com/angelawilson

Ask Angela

VIRTUAL TOURS = SALES?

BILLIE WILLIAMS SAYS: Hi Morgan and Angela,
My question for Angela is about blog tours -- Do these increase sales significantly? Or is there some other method of promotion that seems to do more for individual authors?

Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. I'll be looking forward to reading this column.

Billie A. Williams
Ancient Secrets
Buy it from the Wicked Wordsmith store!
Mystery/SuspenseAccidental Sleuths solve crimes with wit, wisdom and chutzpah
www.billiewilliams.com

Angela says: Billie -Thanks for submitting your questions through Morgan Mandel's blog. Virtual tours are the best option for authors with low budgets to reach a massive audience. You do them from home - or a coffee shop - on sites guaranteed to find fans in your target demographic.

Every author I have interviewed says they noticed an increase in page views at Amazon and their Web sites and/or blogs during a tour. Some saw significant sales increases; others got higher search engine rankings and found new fans, albeit on a smaller scale. You may not sell a book from that one viewer, but that person could forward your site to a friend, family member or coworker who likes your genre - and requests your novel as a gift, or adds it to an Amazon Wish List.

The more you are on the Web, the more chances readers have of finding you. In this vast world of books, where every cover is screaming out at readers to buy it - and promotional budgets are non-existent for non-bestselling authors - you need every advantage you can get. Online promotion - particularly virtual tours - allows you to touch base with fans, network with other professionals and save money on gasoline and other expenses.

Canadian author Cheryl Kaye Tardif became a bestseller because of her online promotions. Now, she is taking it a step further by writing her next novel, Finding Bliss, on an iPhone 3G. She has already completed several interviews on using the latest techno gadgets to write. It is a great cross-promotional tool.

I would encourage you to read my column on Virtual Tours to get started. Then, check out my other columns on marketing plans, and integrating microblogs like Twitter into your online campaign.

Angela Wilson is an author, freelance author publicist and professional blogger and podcaster. She requests ARCs and manages the book blog for Pop Syndicate, where she hosts authors on virtual book tours. If you have a question about promotions, visit www.askangelawilson.com, or email her directly at authorangelawilson@gmail.com.
Your question may be used on that site and/or here.

Find Angela Wilson at:http://www.linkedin.com/in/angelawilson
http://www.facebook.com/people/Angela_Wilson/775118823
http://www.myspace.com/angelawilson
http://twitter.com/angelawilson

Ask Angela

*ARCS - TO SEND OR NOT TO SEND*

CAROL GORDON EKSTER asks: I wondered what your opinion is on how many books to send out yourself (as opposed to your publisher) to reviewers or people who might spread the word about your book. Each book costs the author plus the mailing, and I'm confused about how much promotion to do. Any insight you can give would be appreciated.

Thanks, Carol Gordon Ekster
Where Am I Sleeping Tonight?-A Story of Divorce
a children's book released by Boulden Publishing, fall, 2008
http://www.carolgordonekster.com/

Angela says: Great question, Carol! First, try to find out from your publisher or publicist where ARCs are sent. Some will have standard outlets that always receive ARCs. As for your personal stack, you should only send to publications that you know want the book and will likely do a review. Don't expect every one to follow through. It simply is not feasible. Don't spend a ton of money send ARCs via FedEx, USPS overnight delivery, UPS or DHL. Send it media mail - unless specifically requested by the publication.

There is no guarantee faster delivery will get you a quick review turnaround. To save time and money, ask reviewers if they will accept a PDF ARC via email. Some will, some won't. Personally, I get a better reading experience from a hardcopy, but I do make exceptions - particularly for self-published/POD authors. You may consider using password protection for the PDF, and sending that information in a separate email. If you don't have the full Adobe program to covert Word to PDF, visit Adobe's Web site, where you can do that for a nominal fee.

*BLOG ETIQUETTE*

JESSICA JAMES asks: I am getting ready to plan a blog tour and have a couple of bloggers I would like to contact. What is the proper etiquette for contacting them, and what should I offer them in return for their time and energy in hosting me?

Jessica James
Author of the award-winning Civil War novel,
Shades of Gray
http://www.jessicajamesbooks.com/

Angela says : Jessica -Congratulations for your entry into the virtual realm! You will find most bloggers don't stand on ceremony - but that doesn't mean you should send less-than-stellar email queries.

At Pop Syndicate, I immediately delete all queries with rampant misspellings, poor punctuation and incoherent thoughts. I don't expect someone to be formal; just professional. If they don't care enough to send a well-written, but brief, MySpace message, chances are they won't follow through on their tours.

Keep your queries short and to the point. Use the host's name, if available. Tell them why your novel is a good fit for their blog and ask them to consider hosting you. Include your email, address, phone and Web site in the signature line. Do not send attachments of your book cover or excerpts until they are requested.

In return, tell the bloggers you will promote their site and your tour date to your fans on social networks, in newsletters, forums, listservs, groups and any other online venue you belong to. Some may ask you to do a permanent link to share on their site - I'll post your site if you post mine.

Consider these requests, but do not feel obligated. If you do several tours, your list will become too long and difficult to navigate, and will clutter your page.

Read more about planning virtual tours here.

Angela Wilson is an author, freelance author publicist and professional blogger and podcaster. She requests ARCs and manages the book blog for Pop Syndicate, where she hosts authors on virtual book tours. If you have a question about promotions, visit www.askangelawilson.com, or email her directly at authorangelawilson@gmail.com.
Your question may be used on that site and/or here.

Find Angela Wilson at :http://www.linkedin.com/in/angelawilson
http://www.facebook.com/people/Angela_Wilson/775118823
http://www.myspace.com/angelawilson
http://twitter.com/angelawilson

Exciting Happenings Here By Morgan Mandel

Exciting things are happening soon, here at http://morganmandel.blogspot.com/. Besides my own blogs, I'll be featuring these guest bloggers:


Beginning Thursday, Oct. 9 - Ask Angela, a new weekly column starring Angela Wilson, author publicist, virtual tour editor and author. Angela will answer questions sent in by readers.

I'm gathering information on more guests. Their dates will be finalized shortly.
They are:


Michele Cameron, author of Moments of Clarity.

Dan Herman, author of a non-fiction marketing book.

Cyndia Depre, author of Oblivious, a romantic mystery.


Consider bookmarking this blogspot to keep track of the various guests.
It's simple. Just click the bookmark link in the left column.


I'll clue you as soon as I get more information.


Morgan Mandel
http://www.morganmandel.com/
http://bloodredpencil.blogspot.com/
http://acmeauthorslink.blogspot.com/

ASK ANGELA Column Hosted Soon By Morgan Mandel

Angela Wilson
What mystifies you about marketing? What don't you know about virtual book tours?

You'll find answers here in a new feature column called Ask Angela.

Angela Wilson, author publicist and virtual tour editor for PopSyndicate.Com will clue you in on things you should know, whether you're a newbie, intermediate or seasoned pro.

Don't be afraid to ask even the most basic questions, because it's the only way you'll learn. You may be surprised at how many other people would like to know the same things.

Angela says, "There is no stupid question. I am always surprised to learn of how many people don't know how to use Twitter or MySpace or Facebook. But that's OK. That's what I'm here for - to share the knowledge."

Send your question(s) to morgan@morganmandel.com with ASK ANGELA in the subject line.

If you're a published author, be sure to include your author name, latest book, and website or blogsite, so they can be included. If you don't have a book out yet, leave your name and website or blogsite, because it's never too early to start promo. If you don't have a website or blogsite, better get one or both.

If you don't want to post your name, use some other identifier, such as "member of such-and-such listserv or writing organization" and I'll include that instead.

As soon as we round up enough questions and hand them over to Angela, the feature can get started, so don't delay.

Morgan Mandel
http://www.morganmandel.com/

Angela Wilson - Parting Thoughts on Virtual Tours & Final Remarks by Morgan Mandel

Angela Wilson


Angela leaves us with a few parting thoughts today. For More From Angela Wilson, be sure to go to http://acmeauthorslink.blogspot.com on Wednesday, Sept. 17, when she'll share marketing suggestions.

Conclusion to Series on Virtual Tours

You may not realize the pay off immediately, but you should see additional activity to your MySpace, Facebook and Web site during the tour and the first few months afterward. You should also have a new network of contacts for future tours, book deals or even critique groups. Track your tour in a spreadsheet so you can see what sites were beneficial and which ones may have been a waste of time. Even heavily-trafficked sites can be duds if they don't fit your niche.

If you want your blog tour to be a success, then you have to devote the time to it that it deserves. Enlist the help of friends and family, who can easily respond to comments or other general items while you handle the tough stuff. Also check out listings for virtual tour companies and, if the budget allows, think about hiring someone to do the set up so you can concentrate on networking and sales - and writing.

Thanks for turning the tables & letting me be the guest!
Angela Wilson

http://www.popsyndicate.com/books
www.linkedin.com/in/angelawilson
http://www.facebook.com/people/Angela_Wilson/775118823

Want details on Pop Syndicate virtual tours? E-mail Angela at authorangelawilson@gmail.com.

Pop Syndicate's Group link at Linkedin - http://www.linkedin.com/e/gis/130844

Some content originally posted at Mike's Writing Workshop & Newsletter - http://www.mikeswritingworkshop.blogspot.com

A great big thank you to Angela for sharing her Virtual Tour secrets with us. See her contact information above if you'd like to inquire about a book blog tour at
Pop Syndicate.Com.

Angela Wilson With Blog Tour Tips - Intro by Morgan Mandel

Continued from Wednesday - Sept. 10


Angela Wilson is an author, freelance Web content director and Book Blog Editor for Pop Syndicate, a pop culture site with more than 8,000 hits per day. Each week, Pop Syndicate hosts authors on virtual tour. I was fortunate enough to be one of those authors. Here's a link to my interview by Angela that week: http://www.popsyndicate.com/books/story/book_tour_virtual_sitdown_with_morgan_mandel

Enough about me. Once again, I bring you Angela Wilson who'll give you some valuable tips about virtual book blog tours...


Virtual Tours - Part Two
When venturing out into the blogosphere for the first time, start slow. Plan a three-month tour. Secure space on blogs every week during that time. Check the sites each day to be certain your sponsors post your items. Reply to any comments submitted by readers. The personal touch goes a long way with people in an age of impersonal communication.

Send thank you notes to your sponsors, as well as updated newsletters that tell them where you will be featured. Ask them to post that as well, so readers can follow you throughout the blogosphere.

Do not pay to be placed on a blog. If someone wants cash, get site statistics and feedback from other authors before you cash in. Google the sites and see uninhibited feedback about them; don't just trust the owners' word.

Some authors take whatever blog space they can get – which is not a bad idea when you are first starting out. Other authors, both experienced and new, have specific criteria for blogs that feature them, including a certain number of hits per day and demographics. (See Cheryl Kay Tardiff's blog about her criteria.) When first starting out, some big-name blogs may be reticent to host a small-time author, e-published or self-published novelist. Be prepared to take what you can get, then build on that as your career grows.

Not a blogger but excited at the prospect of using this free interactive tool? Don't jump into the blogosphere on a tour. It is hard, detailed, sometimes mundane work. It can be overwhelming for authors who don't have the experience with the programs. (Yes, they are out there!) First, start a blog at a free service like Blogger or Wordpress, play around, see how it works and your comfort level with it. Also read other blogs and see what they are saying. If you don't like to blog, or don't want to learn how, consider hiring a virtual PR firm. There are those now that specialize only in virtual tours, and work to play your columns and excerpts on sites that fit your target market.

Only experienced bloggers should venture into contests while on tour. The best ideas I've seen so far come from authors in different genres. Delia Latham and Michelle Gagnon asked readers to post comments on all blogs where they were touring. Then, the authors collected names and emails from those posts, put them in a hat and chose a winner. Another author sent readers directly to their guestbook, and chose a winner based on signatures during tour time. As a virtual tour host at Pop Syndicate, I can safely say the most streamlined method is using a guestbook. That places all contest entries in one place, instead of over several blogs on the Web.

Do not expect your virtual tour host to handle the contest. Most blogs and sites will not handle details of a contest, but will be happy to post contest details. Write your own contest copy and allow hosts to tweak as necessary for their site.


Until Tomorrow,
Angela Wilson
http://www.popsyndicate.com/books
http://www.linkedin.com/in/angelawilson
http://www.facebook.com/people/Angela_Wilson/775118823

Want details on Pop Syndicate virtual tours? E-mail Angela at authorangelawilson@gmail.com.

Pop Syndicate's Group Linkedin link - http://www.linkedin.com/e/gis/130844

Some content originally posted at Mike's Writing Workshop & Newsletter - http://www.mikeswritingworkshop.blogspot.com

Angela Wilson, Book Blog Editor, About Virtual Tours, Intro by Morgan Mandel - Pt. 1

Can't afford to travel? Consider a virtual book blog tour. Here's the first of three installments where Angela Wilson, Book Blog Editor for Pop Syndicate, tells you what you need. Angela Wilson is a freelance author publicist, an author, freelance Web content director and Book Blog Editor for Pop Syndicate, a pop culture site with more than 8,000 hits per day. Each week, Pop Syndicate hosts authors on virtual tour. And now, here's Angela...

Virtual Tours
Authors have found an innovative way to use the Web to promote themselves and their work. Virtual author tours, or book blog tours, are fast becoming an inexpensive way to meet new readers and further develop your fan base.

Blog tours allow authors to post content on a variety of sites during their heaviest marketing season. It's a great way to get your name up in Google searches, and introduce yourself to new readers. It's not difficult, but it is time-consuming, and any author who goes this route should be prepared to give up a little writing and a family time to fulfill blogging obligations. Don't let that time element scare you. With proper planning – and short-term tours – any author can manage to do it.

Standard items you need for your tour:

One-page bio. You can use the one you have in your media kit, but make certain it is written in Web-friendly language.

Q&A. Make a list of the most common questions you get from both readers and interviews. Intertwine a few questions unique to yourself, or allow you to offer up unique tidbits about yourself and your writing. Answer them and you're good to go.
Columns. Have five to 10 columns about anything – writing, life, balancing career with family, your latest FAB review. Use one column per blog submission. Use the ones that are best suited for a particular blog. For instance, you will want to send a column about writing to a blog about writing. You want a good variety of columns because you don't want to be too repetitious. Readers want fresh content, and you don't want them to get bored by reading the same copy on different sites. There will be times when you need to write a new column, but at least you will have a stash to get your started.

Audio interviews. If you have them, use them, giving credit to the group or business that conducted the segment.

Book trailers. Be sure these are up and ready on YouTube, and forward the EMBED code to your tour hosts.

High- and low-resolution JPEGS of yourself and your cover art. Try to include a few different poses of yourself, maybe one relaxed at home and a studio shot. Adjust the size so they can easily email, or post them in the media section of your Web site for downloading.

A list of blog tour stops. Post this on your Web site, blog, MySpace, Tagged, Ning, Facebook, and give copies to your blog tour hosts. Also send out to your listserve or everyone in your address book.

Leave yourself open for unique items requested by various Web sites. If a site receives thousands of hits per day, you will want to work a little harder for them than a site with 12 hits. Be sure to save all documents with your name and the content. For example: AngelaWilson.Q&A.doc, AngelaWilson.mug.JPEG, etc.

Don't sweat it if you don't have everything now. Just get the basics together and add to your tour folder when you can. Remember that Web 2.0 will demand audio and video elements – the two most lacking – for future audiences. Start off with at least three unique columns and add to those when you can.

Until Tomorrow,
Angela Wilson

http://www.popsyndicate.com/books
www.linkedin.com/in/angelawilson
http://www.facebook.com/people/Angela_Wilson/775118823


Want details on Pop Syndicate virtual tours? E-mail Angela at authorangelawilson@gmail.com.

Join Pop Syndicate.com Group on Linkedin - http://www.linkedin.com/e/gis/130844

Some content originally posted at Mike's Writing Workshop & Newsletter at
http://www.mikeswritingworkshop.blogspot.com

Sneak Preview of Virtual Tour Guest, Angela Wilson

Angela Wilson

A Hint of What's to Come:
I'll be hosting my first virtual tour guest this week on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday when I turn the tables on Angela Wilson. You see, Angela is the host for a great many virtual book tours at Pop Syndicate.Com, and I might add that she does a marvelous job. Her topic will be no surprise - Virtual Tours.

I met Angela Wilson at the Love is Murder conference a few years ago when she was recording podcasts for authors. At the time I was impressed by not only her outgoing personality, but also her talent and smarts. Since then, I've bumped into her and traded anecdotes many times on the Web.

To give you a little bit about her background, Angela Wilson is a freelance author publicist, an author, former journalist, and freelance writer and director of Web content and programming for clients through Learfield InterActive, a division of Learfield Communications in Jefferson City, Missouri. She is also the book blog editor at Pop Syndicate, a pop culture review site. Her passion is writing fiction. Between PC crashes, a PC to Mac conversation, and doting on spoiled cats, she toils over her erotic thriller and an urban fantasy series.

I invite you to stop over here Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of this week and leave a comment. Angela says she's also open to questions, so think over what you might want to ask her during her tour.

Until then,
Morgan Mandel
http://morganmandel.com
http://morganmandel.blogspot.com