Melanie M. Redd, author of Stepping Closer to the Savior, was kind enough to share how her personal blog has expanded her audience.
Perks of the Author Blog
Whether you want to sell more copies of your book or inspire more people, blogging can help you reach your goals. More and more authors are turning to social media to build relationships with their audience, and many have found these tools beneficial in both book sales and spreading their message. Blogging, one of the most popular tools in social media, has proven to be especially advantageous for self-published authors. Though it is a tool for marketing and publicity, the assets of blogging are countless.
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The blog as a marketing and outreach tool
One of the most important uses of an author blog is to gain publicity. Blogs allow authors to find and develop a relationship with readers on a worldwide level. Authors often post a summary of their book, an author bio, news stories and upcoming events on their blog.
Melanie M. Redd, author of Stepping Closer to the Savior, has used blogging to not only share about her book, but to share about her book's message. Her blog includes stories, pictures and devotions to help others become closer to God.
"I think my blog is a perfect and simple way to offer hope, timely words and Scripture to a lost and lonely world," Redd said. "Blogging is an amazing mechanism by which we can share our faith in positive and creative ways."
The blog as a relationship-builder
Some authors use a blog as an extension of their book, offering fans an extended glimpse of their story. As readers follow your blog, they will become increasingly invested in you as an author. They will be more likely to recommend you to their friends and family and, if you are publishing more than one book, they will be more likely to read your collection.
The author-fan relationship strengthens
as readers comment on your posts. Comments allow for feedback from
readers. Learn what they liked and disliked about a certain post, or
even a certain section of your book. Paying close attention to the words
of your followers can help you define your target audience.
Many of Redd's followers have turned into friends. "Primarily, I have
received incredible support from those who follow," she said. "People
offer words of encouragement, prayer support, and even funny anecdotes."
Source: Cross Books | Lifeway Resources
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