If you're like most authors, promoting your work doesn't come naturally to you. The same goes for the vast majority of your readers. They may love your book(s), but it would never occur to them to actively spread the word. And even if they want to help get the word out, they probably don't know how. That's why marketing is so hard!
One way to get your fans to help you is to create a list of easy ways they can promote your work. Then, when readers tell you they enjoyed your writing, you can thank them and explain that you'd love their help in getting more readers and share the list. If you have a website, you can also post the list there. For example, on my site I have a "buzz" page that lists several ways to help spread the word about my books. Here are just a few:
Anytime I receive an email from a fan, I make a point of saying thank you and also asking that person to use the suggestions on my buzz page. Word of mouth is a powerful marketing force, so why not make it as easy as possible for your biggest cheerleaders to set it in motion?
-Maria
Maria Murnane is the best-selling author of the Waverly Bryson series, Cassidy Lane, Katwalk, and Wait for the Rain. She also provides consulting services to aspiring and published authors. Have questions? You can find her at www.mariamurnane.com.
This blog post originally appeared on CreateSpace.com. Reprinted with permission. © 2017 CreateSpace, a DBA of On-Demand Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved.