I knew that, when I self-published my book, getting the word out and making sales was going to be my job. And it turns out I enjoy it. It’s like a treasure hunt, trying to find places that will accept the book for review, or tracking down the right person at a school board who might consider adding it to library or classroom shelves. I’ve reached out to teachers, book stores, distribution companies that supply schools and libraries and companies that take book fairs into schools.
Lots of reaching out–not an equal amount of returned interest, of course–but each time I have a success, it’s a nice affirmation of all the work that preceeded it, and it keeps me digging for more opportunities to get the word out. Who knew it would be fun?
And the joywriting? Yes, well, that has definitely taken a back seat while I’ve been wearing my marketing hat. All the “what ifs” that have been ricocheting around my marketing brain have, like little PacMans (PacMen?), chewed up the “what ifs” that used to occupy my story-telling brain, and though I miss the stories, there’s a lot of compensation from getting a good review or seeing a positive rating on Amazon or hearing good things from a reader.
I’m back to teaching next week and ahead are writing workshops for teens that I’m offering at the local library and a workshop presentation at the CITE conference at Ridley College in April. All good. All I will enjoy.
And the joywriting? I haven’t given up. It will come. Marketing is for now; writing is forever.
I really have to say that I admire the fact that you are working so hard to promote your book, Heather. I’m sure you are learning plenty along the way. Marketing is not an easy thing to do. Whether it is self-published or traditional we all have to do a certain amount of it, but wouldn’t it be great if we didn’t have to?
Thanks, Laura. I have learned a lot, and it would be lovely if it would all just magically happen, but …. I have found it to be very satisfying work, so that’s a plus. All the best to you for 2011!