As I begin to amp up for my debut to be released later next year, thoughts have definitely turned to promotion. That’s why I was delighted to run across this interview with Kevin Smokler, co-founder and CEO of BookTour.com.
It’s a lengthy interview, and will probably appeal more to authors than readers, but it’s well worth sitting down and having a listen. To borrow an over-used phrase from Oprah, there’s a veritable parade of “ah-ha” moments here.
I think the word “promotion” sends a shiver down many people’s backs. At its worst, it connotes a situation where an author is more or less trying to shove a product down readers’ throats. Very few people want to feel like salesmen. And not everybody is skilled in that area. That’s why Kevin’s definition struck me so strongly.
Promotion, he says, is primarily “an opportunity to meet people who are interested in your book and thank them for their interest.” Or, more succinctly, it’s “an expression of gratitude and graciousness.”
Kind of turns the whole thing on its head, right? Having this philosophy as a framework for promotion is the way to go, I think. Not only does it feel better for the promoter, but it’s gotta feel better for possible readers, too.
What do you guys think? Is this your promotion philosophy or do you see it differently?
– Nick James
Chris Eboch
Greg R. Fishbone
Nick
lindajoysingleton
Parker Peevyhouse
Joni Sensel
I think that’s right on. Some years ago, I had an article published in Writers Digest, on HOW TO SUCCEED AT A CONFERENCE. Here’s an excerpt:
When people hear the word “networking,” most imagine trying to impress bigwigs who could help their career. But many writers don’t feel comfortable selling themselves. If your goal at a conference is to grab an editor and convince her you’re wonderful, you’ll feel anxious. And if you fail to wow–or even meet–the editor, you may feel like a failure.
Instead, think of networking as making friends. During her first major conference, children’s book writer and illustrator Holly Cupala says she decided to focus on making connections with people who share a love of children’s literature–future friends rather than future contacts. During the four-day conference, she talked with dozens of people, including many of the famous speakers. “I chatted with people I never would have dreamed of walking up to if I was in ‘networking’ mode,” she says. “I connected with people by being open and letting go of expectations.”
Talk to everyone, from beginners to the pros. You never know who might be fascinating–or helpful in the future. Today’s “nobody” may be tomorrow’s success story, someone on a first-name basis with top editors and agents.
I think promotion is kind of the same thing. It’s about connecting with people who share a common interest, not saying, “I’m great!”
That’s a really helpful definition. If you think about it, authors love books and readers love books. What better pairing could there be?
As the person who book talks and “sells” the book to the kids, I love knowing more about authors. Kids love to hear these tidbits about the author’s life or personal connection to the book. Kids also love to hear that I met the author or communicated somehow with them. This connection with the author is empowering to kids who like to write as well.
I truly think the Internet has contributed to the current popularity of children’s lit as well. I work hard to create a buzz about lots of new books, which results in more kids reading them! Can’t be a bad thing!
Wonderful concept. I think people back away when they feel someone is too intense, which often happens when authors try to network or sell their work. But everybody loves to meet people who share their passions.