One thing I have learnt over vast years of experience is that if you want something you have to go out and get it for yourself. Do not rely on others to bring it to your door. If you have an innovative idea, promote it!
By tradition, we are taught to be reserved, not to shout from the roof tops and generally be very British! However, if you have a great idea, whether it be the latest gadget or a new book, why do you have to wait for an agent or publisher to blow the trumpets? Announce its arrival.
It is so much easier to have a voice these days and social media is not the social evil the media and politicians would lead us to believe - trust me there are lots of politicians who use social media to effectively get their views and details of their work out to the masses.
After having little success from agents, I decided that I was adopting a new way of looking at the world. I set up a Facebook page and a twitter feed for my book and I have started to reap the benefits. I have also drafted a marketing plan demonstrating I know my market and how best to promote it. I say “drafted” as I want it to be flexible enough to accommodate any future input but I know where I want to go with my book. In addition, I use An Authors Way to reach out to other authors and book enthusiasts. I have received feedback and have taken their comments on board, making a number of adjustments.
My own personal belief in life is if you go that extra mile on your own, it goes a long way to prove how determined and confident you are in your own abilities.
Promoting yourself is NOT bragging, not rubbing people’s noses in your success. True family and friends will support your endeavours and embrace your enthusiasm. I have amazing support already for my book and I am confident that it will go to print shortly.
In the meantime, I will continue plugging away.
Pam Charles
www.brightblueeyes.co.uk
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Beyond-the-past/204620573024944?ref=hl