I had a lengthy conversation with one of the novelists with whom I work last night. It was a good chat. Her next manuscript is progressing nicely. The characters are, for the most part, doing as they are told (writers out there know that sometimes characters zig when you thought they were going to zag). Then she said something that got me thinking. She said, in celebration of her 20th book in print, she was making a radical change to her platform.

First, I was surprised. She is one of those writers who floats with languid repose in the familiar. But after a little push from her publisher, she agreed to a book tour in Eastern Europe.

It was this decision that made me wonder. Do writers, sometimes, stick with the familiar because there is comfort in it? This has to be even more intimidating for indie and self-published writers. You have spent weeks, maybe months, on a manuscript. You fine tune it, read, re-read and dream about it. Then, once it is published, you have to get people to buy it. Where do you start? The safe bet would be to call every relative you have. Right? Nope…

So, I have compiled a list (not comprehensive) of things to consider before your book is complete and what to do after it is complete. If you want the big list I give my clients who use my developmental editing services, send me a PM or email. You will see that your editor can help along the way.

• Most important-Have a strategy before the book is complete and follow it after you publish.
Three points to a marketing strategy
1. Identify your audience. Ask yourself—to whom does your book appeal? Get to know where they are in cyberspace and in real life
2. Establish a budget. How much money are you able and willing to spend marketing and promoting your book? Include everything!
3. Create a marketing plan. How much time can you dedicate to launching and continuing your strategies? What are your goals?
• Create your summary with a good hook. Ask your editor to proof if for you!
• Use your author website-Oh, you don’t have one…get one!
• Link your book to trends. Write articles that tie your book topic or genre to current popular interests.
• Promote the book. Goodreads obviously—but there are many other sites. Send me a PM if you want a list. I have no idea if I would be booted for promoting other sites.
• Create a press release. If you employ an editor, ask them if a press release can be written for your latest work. Many manuscript editors have degrees in English and/or Journalism. Most of us could write a press release in our sleep. And there are many free sites that can help.
• Get early reviews. Make a list of bloggers and reviewers in your book’s genre, read their guidelines on what and how to submit, and start sending your manuscript out for early reviews. Ask your editor if they have a list already compiled.
• Advertise your previous novels in each book you publish. One of the best places to advertise your previous work is at the end of your current book.
• Design a book cover that doesn’t suck. Use a professional to design your cover. There are a number of experts I recommend to my clients (when asked). Just because your nephew loves to draw, it does not mean he should design your cover.
• Be a writer, NOT a hobbyist. You are an author. Do write anything you don’t want linked to your work. If you review novels you read, be nice.