by Lillian Brooks
Maybe you’re working on your very first book, and you’re hoping to self-publish it eventually. Or perhaps you’ve finished the first draft of your novel, and now, you’re working on revising it so that you can land an agent. Of course, you’ll want to conduct accurate research, as proper background information will help with the believability of your work, which helps to engage the reader. No matter which path you’re pursuing, becoming an author is a tough road, so it’s important to gain positive exposure for your work.
Presented below by Comic Book Hideout, these tips will help you tackle everything from creating a business plan to landing writing jobs.
Create a Business Plan
Even if you’re in a creative profession, having a business plan is crucial. In your business plan, you can describe your writing projects, which platforms you could use to sell your books, and how you can market yourself. You may need to pick out a business structure as well. Furthermore, if you need additional funding for any of your projects, you can note this in your business plan. You can go online and look up information about starting a new company so you cover all your bases.
Drawning Up Contracts
It’s important to draw up contracts and agreements with clients in order to protect yourself. Without defined terms, services you provide could be taken advantage of without compensation. Thankfully, there are tools available that allows you to easily create and sign documents online. Not only can you fill out PDF forms without leaving the comfort of your home but your clients can electronically sign documents as well, eliminating any need for physically signing or printing. Once they complete their e-signature, you can securely share your PDF file with them in the blink of an eye — try this tool if you’re looking for a great option.
Launch a Website
Every author should have a website. You need a place to advertise your books, update readers on your latest projects and writing progress, and give readers the chance to contact you. To create an author website, Reedsy recommends buying a relevant domain name, hiring a designer who specializes in working with writers, and adding an “About Me” page, a contact form, social media links, a page for your books, and a blog.
Social Media Marketing
There are communities of writers and readers on every social media platform. If you’re not already using social media to promote your work, it’s time to join these platforms and get started! To use social media effectively and get the most out of these platforms, Evergreen Authors recommends creating a content schedule that works for you, going over your analytics to see which posts perform best, and starting with one or two platforms so that you don’t spread yourself too thin.
Connect With Your Community
Writing can feel like a solitary pursuit, but truthfully, it’s important for writers to have a community of people around them in real life. This can be as simple as joining others for regular exercise like walking (made easier if you live in an area with a high Walk Score), maybe even joining a walking or running club. Not only will you get in much-needed exercise, it’s a great way to meet new people. You never know when you could meet someone who will introduce you to an agent or editor or when a fellow writer could give you insights that completely change your draft for the better.
If you want to meet more writers in your area, sign up for a writing class or local critique group, where you’ll be able to make new friends, get revision suggestions, and better learn your craft. You may also want to sign up for open mics or local readings. You’ll get the chance to practice sharing your work in public.
If you’re hoping to become a published author, you have an exciting journey ahead of you. Self-promotion will be key to your success as an author! With these tips – including starting your own company, marketing via social media, and connecting with the community – you’ll be ready to write up a business plan for your books, create your own author website, and revise your resume.
Comic Book Hideout is your one-stop shop for all things comics! To learn more about us or to start a pull, please give us a call at (657) 217-0624.
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