We, as writers, don’t talk enough about marketing and public relations. We think the hardest part is writing our books, and don’t get me wrong, that is difficult, but nothing is as hard as having your novel, doing the launch, and then not having any idea what to do next. Here are the basics all writers must understand about marketing and public relations:

• Have an active blog ensuring you offer topics of value for the reader, share other authors works, interview fellow writers, fun tidbits, things people will find interesting. Also, step out of your genre, share things that have nothing to do with your work. A blog is a great way for readers to get to know you.
• Have a website (even a simple landing page) where people can find you and your works. Keep the name of your website easy. In my case its www.mdneu.com I simply use my author name so even if that is all they know they should be able to find me.
• Get involved on Social Media (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, etc.), but only do the social media you enjoy. There are a tone of author communities that you can take part in to build your network.
• Speaking of social media always end your post (especially on Facebook and your Blog) with a question, something that engages your readers.
• Create a mailing list (this is a slow process) but an important step. Every time you go to an event, book signing, or speaking engagement remind people to sign up for your mailing list.
• Build a media kit. Don’t know how? Check out this link: https://blog.reedsy.com/author-media-kit-template/
• Learn how to write a Press Release, this link has examples: https://www.wikihow.com/Sample/Press-Release
• Create a media contact sheet (local TV, newspapers, magazines, radios, podcasts, etc.) Don’t spam them, but do invite them to your local events and send them your Press Release. Also, tag them on Social Media when you have something big to announce. They may not do anything at first, but don’t give up, the more they see what you are doing (again do not spam them) the bigger a chance of them featuring you becomes.
• Keep an eye out for opportunities to get more reviews (never buy a review) find bloggers and websites that offer reviews, podcasts, swap reviews with fellow authors, ask your friends and family to provide reviews, etc. Are reviews the end all be all, no, but they are important so don’t forget them.
• Learn how to create (or pay if you can) for marketing material such as: business cards, bookmarks, sell sheets, teaser graphics, table runners, book trailers, insert slips, etc.
• Advertise (if you have the budget) but know what your goal is (book sales, mailing list, event promotion, etc.). Facebook’s prices won’t break the bank and are a good way to learn. Also, look into advertising on popular podcasts and websites.
• Create your author brand. You need a consistent look and feel representing you (website, business cards, etc.). Do you have a color you like and want to use? If so, make sure you use the same color in all your marketing materials and on all your social media. Also, when it comes to colors find the proper color code. Don’t know what that is here’s a website: https://html-color-codes.info
• Part of your brand is you so have a proper photo taken. I can’t tell you how many authors don’t and it makes me cringe. I understand most authors avoid photos like the plague, but people want to know who you are. Take the time to have a nice photo of yourself taken and use it everywhere.
• Create speaking opportunities for yourself. If you hate speaking in public pull in a few local writers and create a ‘Meet the Authors’ event. Local clubs, schools, libraries, and community centers love to have people come and talk, so make a list and start reaching out to them. A group of authors can also pull their resource to attend bigger events in their community it reduces the cost and will help attract more people and you’ll have fun.
• Don’t be afraid to try new things and if something doesn’t work try something new.
• Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Do you have ‘Superfans’ who love everything you write? Great, send them an email and ask them to share your latest news, book release, reviews, event, or whatever you’ll be surprised how many of them say yes.

There is so much more to marketing and public relations, but I hope this helps.