A few weeks ago I was a panel member at a writer's conference workshop. The subject was building a platform. Today, I'd like to share a few points that we made at the workshop. But first, here's my go-to person for all things writer-ly, Jane Friedman, who tells us what platforms are and are not: "What editors and agents typically mean by platform They're looking for someone with visibility and authority who has proven reach to a target audience. Let's break this down further. Visibility. Who knows you? Who is aware of your work? Where does your work regularly appear? How many people see it? How does it spread? Where does it spread? What communities are you a part of? Who do you influence? Where do you make waves? Authority. What's your credibility? What are your credentials? (This is particularly important for nonfiction writers; it is less important for fiction writers, though it can play a role. Just take a look at any graduate of the Iowa MFA program.) … [Read more...]
What’s a platform anyway?
Orangeberry Book Tours – Check it out!
Besides the blog tour I've set up, for the next three months, my Dream of Things publisher, Mike O'Mary contracted with Orangeberry Book Tours to create an additional virtual tour for me. I've already had four Orangeberry-arranged stops with four more to go this week. See below. Although the jury is still out about whether this tour will boost sales of Leaving the Hall Light On, I already love the service. Pandora Poikilos, who began Orangeberry Book Tours a year ago, is very helpful and responsive. Even before the tour began Dora liked my author page on Facebook and has tweeted about my book many times. What a great business head she has. I think her service would work very well for my many author friends. I suggest you check Orangeberry out if you're looking to promote your book or sign on to be a blog host. Here's the places I've been and where I'm going this week. Please check them out. Check out where this author will be talking about her latest release! 5th … [Read more...]
