Today I would like to introduce a new topic: Social Networks Rules for Indie Authors.
Well like most people know nowadays social media usage is growing and is now part of our lives. For many of us, using social media sites is a very common thing, most of us share photos with family and friends and we as writers we post our photos of our books for promoting it, connecting with other authors, readers and fans.
I research the best rules to how to use social media and how not.
1 When you post something on Facebook, Google +, maybe about the last book you have read or something about your book, is because you want a interaction, attention, from others, that's right but you have to reply to everyone that comment your post, doesn't matter who is because this is the basic thing you have to do, don't ignore the comments you get and don't click like because it is rude.
2 Many writers post on social media Facebook especially, links to their books every day, but this could be considered spam and people ignore it. Instead be social with authors, readers, interact with them post about your books in groups, then spread it out and doing it all at once swamps friends news feeds.
3 Post fun photos of your books in curious places or events, photos of a book are also a good way of getting the word out. No need to post buying link, just fun pics.
4 Social sharing is good to helping others, it is about interaction, engagement and mutual support, when someone need help do it but cheer them also when they are doing well too, If you share others book don't expect anything in return, just do it as if you like it. Give first, ask later. The best rule of thumb is to give more than you take.
5 Listen: listen and observe, see what’s being said online and how you can participate. Dialog: communicate, remember the cocktail party example.Participate: join in, share stuff, be helpful. Don’t be afraid to share your opinion.
6 Leave your wallet at the door: don’t show up online wanting to make money. Show up ready to share and enlighten. This will take you much further.
7 Be honest: it’s tempting for some to embellish or lie. Who’s gonna find out about it, right? Wrong. The Internet has a way of sifting out the fake stuff and embracing the real messages.
8 Focus on building social Karma (always do favors, never ask for them or expect them).
9 90% of your content should not be about yourself or your book. You should be sharing other people’s posts, researching and finding useful information online, helping out people solve problems, and making positive relationships by providing value.
10 Build a platform comment on other people’s blogposts or Facebook posts or tweet. Share their stuff. Offer constructive feedback (not just praise). Be a connector – introduce people to each other when they can both benefit from the relationship, even though you won’t profit from it.
Check also this links that have good info
Derek Murphy
I took rules #9 and #10 from his website
http://www.creativindie.com/how-authors-and-author-marketing-services-are-ruining-social-media/
Frances Caballo
https://www.bookworks.com/2016/11/16-tips-to-boost-facebook-engagement-for-indie-authors/
Jason Greensides
inspiration for rule #1
watch his interesting video below
