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Making the Most of Your Next Writers Conference
Posted by Cynthia on September 25, 2017
There’s a writers conference in every part of the country, for every type of author, all year round (there’s even one on a cruise! Search for “writers conferences near me” to see what you find). Some conferences are restricted to members of a writer’s association while others are open to any kind of writer.
You’ll find a Goodreads representative at many writers conferences. Find us at NINC in St. Petersburg, Florida and at Litquake in San Francisco, California in October.
Attending a conference is a great way to learn about the publishing process, network with professionals, and hone your writing skills. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of attending your next writers conference:
1. Practice pitching yourself – as well as your book – in one minute or less.
You never know if the person you’re sharing an elevator with is an agent, publisher, or bookseller (or simply your next biggest fan). Work on delivering a succinct description about who you are and what you do, and be prepared for follow up questions.
2. Research the conference in advance.
Conferences usually post information about top attendees on their website, so identify a handful of people you really want to meet and make sure you attend their panels or signings. Approach them after their event for a quick chat to get in some facetime. Review the schedule of events to ensure you attend the most useful panels (though some conferences also provide recordings), and create a calendar for yourself so you know what to do, where to go, and when.
3. Find, follow, and post to the right hashtag.
You can find lots of real-time information on Twitter; you just have to know where to look. Use the right hashtag to connect with people, share information, or ask a question (“Anyone know the shortest line for coffee?”).
4. It’s ok to take breaks.
With the adrenaline going, you might find yourself entirely depleted by the end of the day. Take the time to unwind, whether that’s a 20-minute stroll outside the conference or a nap in your hotel room.
5. Limit your swag
Remember that the more free items you take, the more likely you will need to check your bag at the airport (or have to mail home). Be selective on what tchotchkes you’re willing to accept and don’t be afraid to say “No, thanks!”
We asked a few professionals for their advice for how authors can make the most of attending a writer’s conference. Here's what they said:
“To prepare for a conference, I recommend my three P’s for success – Plan, Process, Pace.
Plan. Be clear on what you hope to gain from attending and plot your strategy based on your specific goals. Review the schedule and determine which events to attend and who to seek out. Prearrange one-on-one meetings in advance. Prepare items to bring such as a proposal, work in progress, past publications, writing samples, and business cards.
Process. Once at the conference, connect rather than collect. Truly focus on whomever you are speaking to at any given time, ask interesting questions, and set an objective to develop two or three lasting connections rather than collecting twenty business cards.
Pace. Replace quantity with quality. Attend fewer events yet be fully present. Show up at networking events early – when there are fewer people with greater opportunities to have meaningful exchanges. Take recharge breaks; pace yourself.
Finally, send personalized follow-ups within 48 hours. If you’re not following up, you’re not networking. Keep in mind, true networking is the art of creating mutually beneficial, lasting connections for shared positive outcomes.”
"Plenty of aspiring writers attend [writers conferences] without an invitation, and if you are published, you might be asked to be on a panel. You do want, especially when starting out, to get your name out there. Just as is the case for aspiring politicians who hit every church supper and basement constituent meeting, there is a cumulative effect. Any one event may not build your name, but hitting ten or twenty may."
(via Ask the Author)
What do you do to prepare for conferences? What conferences have you find valuable? Share it with us in the comments below!
Next: It's baaack: Prepare for Horror Week on Goodreads
You might also like: Level Up Your Goodreads Marketing
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
Posted by Cynthia on September 25, 2017
There’s a writers conference in every part of the country, for every type of author, all year round (there’s even one on a cruise! Search for “writers conferences near me” to see what you find). Some conferences are restricted to members of a writer’s association while others are open to any kind of writer.
You’ll find a Goodreads representative at many writers conferences. Find us at NINC in St. Petersburg, Florida and at Litquake in San Francisco, California in October.
Attending a conference is a great way to learn about the publishing process, network with professionals, and hone your writing skills. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of attending your next writers conference:
1. Practice pitching yourself – as well as your book – in one minute or less.
You never know if the person you’re sharing an elevator with is an agent, publisher, or bookseller (or simply your next biggest fan). Work on delivering a succinct description about who you are and what you do, and be prepared for follow up questions.
2. Research the conference in advance.
Conferences usually post information about top attendees on their website, so identify a handful of people you really want to meet and make sure you attend their panels or signings. Approach them after their event for a quick chat to get in some facetime. Review the schedule of events to ensure you attend the most useful panels (though some conferences also provide recordings), and create a calendar for yourself so you know what to do, where to go, and when.
3. Find, follow, and post to the right hashtag.
You can find lots of real-time information on Twitter; you just have to know where to look. Use the right hashtag to connect with people, share information, or ask a question (“Anyone know the shortest line for coffee?”).
4. It’s ok to take breaks.
With the adrenaline going, you might find yourself entirely depleted by the end of the day. Take the time to unwind, whether that’s a 20-minute stroll outside the conference or a nap in your hotel room.
5. Limit your swag
Remember that the more free items you take, the more likely you will need to check your bag at the airport (or have to mail home). Be selective on what tchotchkes you’re willing to accept and don’t be afraid to say “No, thanks!”
We asked a few professionals for their advice for how authors can make the most of attending a writer’s conference. Here's what they said:
Devora Zack, author of Networking for People Who Hate Networking
“To prepare for a conference, I recommend my three P’s for success – Plan, Process, Pace.
Process. Once at the conference, connect rather than collect. Truly focus on whomever you are speaking to at any given time, ask interesting questions, and set an objective to develop two or three lasting connections rather than collecting twenty business cards.
Pace. Replace quantity with quality. Attend fewer events yet be fully present. Show up at networking events early – when there are fewer people with greater opportunities to have meaningful exchanges. Take recharge breaks; pace yourself.
Finally, send personalized follow-ups within 48 hours. If you’re not following up, you’re not networking. Keep in mind, true networking is the art of creating mutually beneficial, lasting connections for shared positive outcomes.”
Linwood Barclay, author of No Time for Goodbye
"Plenty of aspiring writers attend [writers conferences] without an invitation, and if you are published, you might be asked to be on a panel. You do want, especially when starting out, to get your name out there. Just as is the case for aspiring politicians who hit every church supper and basement constituent meeting, there is a cumulative effect. Any one event may not build your name, but hitting ten or twenty may."
(via Ask the Author)
What do you do to prepare for conferences? What conferences have you find valuable? Share it with us in the comments below!
Next: It's baaack: Prepare for Horror Week on Goodreads
You might also like: Level Up Your Goodreads Marketing
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
It’s baaaack: Horror Week on Goodreads: October 16 - 22
Posted by Cynthia on September 04, 2017
We’re not afraid to say it: we love a good horror story. There’s something exhilarating about reading a ghost story knowing you’re safe and sound whenever you put the book down (or in the freezer).
Here are five things authors can do to participate in Horror Week on Goodreads, which we’re celebrating October 16 – 22, 2017.
1. Take questions from readers. Like the monster under your bed, Ask the Author questions are only visible to you. Once you choose to answer the questions they become visible to your followers, and show up in your updates feed and the update feed of the person who asked the question. If you skip a question, it’s like it never existed (because nobody gets notified).
Find Ask the Author on your Goodreads Author Dashboard when you’re signed into your account. Find inspiration by reading Best Practices here.
2. Tell us a two-sentence horror story. Any author – horror writer or not – can respond to this question on Goodreads (we’re looking forward to the creative replies!).
We’re sending out an official question via Ask the Author on October 16, but start thinking about your favorite one now (find some inspiration here). Be sure to share a link to your answer on Twitter on you post it on Ask the Author to increase engagement.
3. Browse our list of top horror novels and shelve your favorites. Which books make your blood run cold? Connect with other readers over a shared passion for the macabre. Review the books you loved—just be wary of spoilers.
4. Trick or treat? Choose to treat your readers to some original content. We’re sharing five writing prompts that authors can respond to in the comment sections, on Twitter, the Goodreads blog, or in the writing section. You might also consider sharing an excerpt of your upcoming book or the cover – whatever you think will make readers scream (with delight of course)!
5. Tag social activity with #Horrorweek. This allows readers to discover your content across social channels, and gives you the chance to amplify your message to all those participating.
These five things are just a few way to get you going. There are many ways to engage with readers on Goodreads and you can find the activity that’s right for you. Horror Week is just an excuse to have a ghoulishly good time!
Next: Goodreads Believes in Book Fairies - and You Can, Too
You might also like: The Five Readers You Meet in Publishing
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
Posted by Cynthia on September 04, 2017
We’re not afraid to say it: we love a good horror story. There’s something exhilarating about reading a ghost story knowing you’re safe and sound whenever you put the book down (or in the freezer).
Here are five things authors can do to participate in Horror Week on Goodreads, which we’re celebrating October 16 – 22, 2017.
1. Take questions from readers. Like the monster under your bed, Ask the Author questions are only visible to you. Once you choose to answer the questions they become visible to your followers, and show up in your updates feed and the update feed of the person who asked the question. If you skip a question, it’s like it never existed (because nobody gets notified).
Find Ask the Author on your Goodreads Author Dashboard when you’re signed into your account. Find inspiration by reading Best Practices here.
2. Tell us a two-sentence horror story. Any author – horror writer or not – can respond to this question on Goodreads (we’re looking forward to the creative replies!).
We’re sending out an official question via Ask the Author on October 16, but start thinking about your favorite one now (find some inspiration here). Be sure to share a link to your answer on Twitter on you post it on Ask the Author to increase engagement.
3. Browse our list of top horror novels and shelve your favorites. Which books make your blood run cold? Connect with other readers over a shared passion for the macabre. Review the books you loved—just be wary of spoilers.
4. Trick or treat? Choose to treat your readers to some original content. We’re sharing five writing prompts that authors can respond to in the comment sections, on Twitter, the Goodreads blog, or in the writing section. You might also consider sharing an excerpt of your upcoming book or the cover – whatever you think will make readers scream (with delight of course)!
5. Tag social activity with #Horrorweek. This allows readers to discover your content across social channels, and gives you the chance to amplify your message to all those participating.
These five things are just a few way to get you going. There are many ways to engage with readers on Goodreads and you can find the activity that’s right for you. Horror Week is just an excuse to have a ghoulishly good time!
Next: Goodreads Believes in Book Fairies - and You Can, Too
You might also like: The Five Readers You Meet in Publishing
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
Goodreads Believes in Book Fairies – and You Can, Too
Posted by Cynthia on August 28, 2017
Goodreads was founded ten years ago with the mission of helping people find and share books they love. Through Goodreads, readers have added 1.9 billion books to their shelves, written 67 million reviews, and connected with more than 200,000 authors over a shared love of reading.
On Monday, September 18, you can help even more readers find amazing books by participating in our Hide a Book Day. As part of our Ten-Year Anniversary Celebration, Goodreads is teaming up with our fellow book lovers at The Book Fairies to hide books around their neighborhoods for people to find, read, and leave for the next person.
We’re inviting authors to participate, too. You can leave out one of your own books or share a favorite book from another author. Hiding your own book? Make it extra special by signing it. Don’t forget to ask your street team or beta reviewers to get involved as well. Here’s everything you need to know to get involved:
You never know if you’re placing a book for someone who finds it at exactly the right time, and how they end up changing the world because of it.
Next: Quiz: How Much Do You Know About the Goodreads Author Program?
You might also like: Hide a Book with Goodreads
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
Posted by Cynthia on August 28, 2017
Goodreads was founded ten years ago with the mission of helping people find and share books they love. Through Goodreads, readers have added 1.9 billion books to their shelves, written 67 million reviews, and connected with more than 200,000 authors over a shared love of reading.
On Monday, September 18, you can help even more readers find amazing books by participating in our Hide a Book Day. As part of our Ten-Year Anniversary Celebration, Goodreads is teaming up with our fellow book lovers at The Book Fairies to hide books around their neighborhoods for people to find, read, and leave for the next person.
We’re inviting authors to participate, too. You can leave out one of your own books or share a favorite book from another author. Hiding your own book? Make it extra special by signing it. Don’t forget to ask your street team or beta reviewers to get involved as well. Here’s everything you need to know to get involved:
- First you need the two stickers for each book. Order them here to get your stickers before September 18. The Book Fairies work magic, but they are based in England and do need time to get them out to you, so don't delay (order them today)!
- Hide the book in a semi-obvious spot for someone to find. We recommend a high-traffic area like train and bus stops, national monuments, and parks. But watch the weather forecast as you don’t want your book to get soggy.
- Once you’ve hidden a book, take a picture and share it with your fellow Goodreads members and Book Fairies on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram using the hashtags #goodreadsturns10 #hideabookday, #ibelieveinbookfairies.
You never know if you’re placing a book for someone who finds it at exactly the right time, and how they end up changing the world because of it.
Which book will you hide for other readers to find on September 18? Tell us in the comments!
Next: Quiz: How Much Do You Know About the Goodreads Author Program?
You might also like: Hide a Book with Goodreads
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
The Goodreads Author Program Quiz
Posted by Cynthia on August 08, 2017
How much do you know about the Goodreads Author Program? Test your knowledge to find out (and perhaps learn a new thing or two). Answers below—no peeking!
1. True or false? You need to be a published author to claim your author profile.
a) True
b) False
2. When should you list your first giveaway on Goodreads?
a) On publication day.
b) Three months before publication day.
c) Three months after publication day.
d) As early as possible.
3. What activity can you do to increase followers on Goodreads?
a) Review, rate, or shelve books.
b) Answer questions via Ask the Author.
c) Tell people to follow you on Goodreads.
d) All of the above.
4. What should you do when you need to update a cover on Goodreads?
a) Delete the old book cover and add the new cover.
b) Create a new edition of the book.
c) Post your new cover to your blog.
d) Nothing. You can’t update covers.
5. What is the difference between a friend and a follower on Goodreads?
a) You can have as many friends as you like; you can only have a few followers.
b) You need to approve friend requests, but anyone can follow you.
c) Your followers are limited to readers in your favorite genre; your friends can enjoy any book they want.
d) Friends will always buy your books, your followers will just ‘like’ your status updates.
6. One of your books isn’t listed on your profile. What do you do?
a) Restart your computer.
b) Add the book to the database manually.
c) Wonder if your book even exists.
d) Post to the librarian group to get someone to help you out.
7. How can you tell if you’re a Goodreads Author?
a) You have an account on Goodreads.
b) Your book is listed on Goodreads.
c) You’re interviewed for the newsletter.
d) You see the Goodreads Author badge in the corner of your profile and can access your Author Dashboard.
8. What is the minimum number of copies you need to set up a giveaway?
a) One
b) Five
c) Twenty
d) As many as possible
9. Are authors allowed to review their own books?
a) Yes, no harm done.
b) No way, no how.
10. Can you give away an older book?
a) Sure thing.
b) No way.
c) It depends on how long ago the book was published.
d) It depends on whether you’re a Goodreads Author.
1. A. True. Your book needs to be in our database and have a publication date in order for you to claim your profile (i.e.: you’re either a published author or a soon-to-be published author). To claim your profile, click on your author name and submit the application at the bottom of the page.
2. D. List your first giveaway as early as possible to start building advance buzz. Many publishing houses send galleys out 6-9 months before the publication of the book! You can list as many giveaways as you like before and after publication.
3. D. All of the above activities generate great content and raise awareness of your presence on Goodreads, which will persuade readers to follow you.
4. B. The best way to approach updating covers is to create a new edition of your book and combine it with the old ones. Since readers can be very particular about which edition they shelve, it’s Goodreads policy not to delete covers. If you’re in doubt, post to the librarian group for someone to help out.
5. B. You need to approve every single friend request, but anyone can follow you. On your publication date, Goodreads automatically emails all your followers; we don’t email your friends. Encourage readers to follow you!
6. B or D. You can add your books to the database manually here if you don’t see them on your book page. However, you can always post to the librarian group when you need help with your metadata.
7. D. You need to see the Goodreads Author badge in the top right corner of your profile, and when you’re logged into your account you should be able to navigate to https://www.goodreads.com/author/dashboard. Simply having an account on Goodreads doesn’t make you a Goodreads Author, since you want your activity on the site to be associated with the book so that readers can easily find you.
8. A. You only need one physical copy of your book to set up a giveaway on Goodreads. You can run as many giveaways as you like, but they each must last a minimum of one week. Set up your giveaways here.
9. A. Yes, authors are allowed to review their own books. Goodreads displays “review from the author” next to your own review. Reviewing your own book though is likely not going to sway your audience. Instead, use the opportunity to write about what inspired you to write the book. Here is an example.
10. A. Sure thing! You can give away any book you have written yourself, whether it was published 10 years ago or 10 days ago.
How many answers did you get right? Did you learn anything new? Share your results with us in the comments below!
Next: Five Writing Prompts for Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers
You might also like: Level Up Your Goodreads Marketing
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
Posted by Cynthia on August 08, 2017
How much do you know about the Goodreads Author Program? Test your knowledge to find out (and perhaps learn a new thing or two). Answers below—no peeking!
1. True or false? You need to be a published author to claim your author profile.
a) True
b) False
2. When should you list your first giveaway on Goodreads?
a) On publication day.
b) Three months before publication day.
c) Three months after publication day.
d) As early as possible.
3. What activity can you do to increase followers on Goodreads?
a) Review, rate, or shelve books.
b) Answer questions via Ask the Author.
c) Tell people to follow you on Goodreads.
d) All of the above.
4. What should you do when you need to update a cover on Goodreads?
a) Delete the old book cover and add the new cover.
b) Create a new edition of the book.
c) Post your new cover to your blog.
d) Nothing. You can’t update covers.
5. What is the difference between a friend and a follower on Goodreads?
a) You can have as many friends as you like; you can only have a few followers.
b) You need to approve friend requests, but anyone can follow you.
c) Your followers are limited to readers in your favorite genre; your friends can enjoy any book they want.
d) Friends will always buy your books, your followers will just ‘like’ your status updates.
6. One of your books isn’t listed on your profile. What do you do?
a) Restart your computer.
b) Add the book to the database manually.
c) Wonder if your book even exists.
d) Post to the librarian group to get someone to help you out.
7. How can you tell if you’re a Goodreads Author?
a) You have an account on Goodreads.
b) Your book is listed on Goodreads.
c) You’re interviewed for the newsletter.
d) You see the Goodreads Author badge in the corner of your profile and can access your Author Dashboard.
8. What is the minimum number of copies you need to set up a giveaway?
a) One
b) Five
c) Twenty
d) As many as possible
9. Are authors allowed to review their own books?
a) Yes, no harm done.
b) No way, no how.
10. Can you give away an older book?
a) Sure thing.
b) No way.
c) It depends on how long ago the book was published.
d) It depends on whether you’re a Goodreads Author.
Double check your answers... Answer Key below!
1. A. True. Your book needs to be in our database and have a publication date in order for you to claim your profile (i.e.: you’re either a published author or a soon-to-be published author). To claim your profile, click on your author name and submit the application at the bottom of the page.
2. D. List your first giveaway as early as possible to start building advance buzz. Many publishing houses send galleys out 6-9 months before the publication of the book! You can list as many giveaways as you like before and after publication.
3. D. All of the above activities generate great content and raise awareness of your presence on Goodreads, which will persuade readers to follow you.
4. B. The best way to approach updating covers is to create a new edition of your book and combine it with the old ones. Since readers can be very particular about which edition they shelve, it’s Goodreads policy not to delete covers. If you’re in doubt, post to the librarian group for someone to help out.
5. B. You need to approve every single friend request, but anyone can follow you. On your publication date, Goodreads automatically emails all your followers; we don’t email your friends. Encourage readers to follow you!
6. B or D. You can add your books to the database manually here if you don’t see them on your book page. However, you can always post to the librarian group when you need help with your metadata.
7. D. You need to see the Goodreads Author badge in the top right corner of your profile, and when you’re logged into your account you should be able to navigate to https://www.goodreads.com/author/dashboard. Simply having an account on Goodreads doesn’t make you a Goodreads Author, since you want your activity on the site to be associated with the book so that readers can easily find you.
8. A. You only need one physical copy of your book to set up a giveaway on Goodreads. You can run as many giveaways as you like, but they each must last a minimum of one week. Set up your giveaways here.
9. A. Yes, authors are allowed to review their own books. Goodreads displays “review from the author” next to your own review. Reviewing your own book though is likely not going to sway your audience. Instead, use the opportunity to write about what inspired you to write the book. Here is an example.
10. A. Sure thing! You can give away any book you have written yourself, whether it was published 10 years ago or 10 days ago.
How many answers did you get right? Did you learn anything new? Share your results with us in the comments below!
Next: Five Writing Prompts for Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers
You might also like: Level Up Your Goodreads Marketing
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
Five Writing Prompts for Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers
Posted by Cynthia on July 31, 2017
"I knew there were stories I wanted to tell," Octavia E. Butler writes succinctly. Science Fiction and Fantasy authors take note! You have a special Ask the Author questions waiting for you on your Author Dashboard: "If you could travel to any fictional book world, where would you go and what would you do there?"
Answer this question during Science Fiction and Fantasy Week, July 30 - August 5, and your answer might get amplified by our editorial team.
Looking for more? Here are five writing prompts for writers who are flexing their writing muscles, especially during this week as we celebrate all things fantastical. Share your stories in the Goodreads Creative Writing section, on social media using #SFFWeek, or in the comments below!
Next: Quotes About Writing Science Fiction and Fantasy
You might also like: Five Writing Prompts for Mystery & Thriller Writers
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
Posted by Cynthia on July 31, 2017
"I knew there were stories I wanted to tell," Octavia E. Butler writes succinctly. Science Fiction and Fantasy authors take note! You have a special Ask the Author questions waiting for you on your Author Dashboard: "If you could travel to any fictional book world, where would you go and what would you do there?"
Answer this question during Science Fiction and Fantasy Week, July 30 - August 5, and your answer might get amplified by our editorial team.
Looking for more? Here are five writing prompts for writers who are flexing their writing muscles, especially during this week as we celebrate all things fantastical. Share your stories in the Goodreads Creative Writing section, on social media using #SFFWeek, or in the comments below!
Ready, set, write!
Next: Quotes About Writing Science Fiction and Fantasy
You might also like: Five Writing Prompts for Mystery & Thriller Writers
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
Quotes About Writing Science Fiction and Fantasy
Posted by Cynthia on July 30, 2017
"I write for the same reason I breathe - because if I didn't, I would die," said the master of science fiction, Isaac Asimov. To celebrate Science Fiction and Fantasy Week on Goodreads this week, July 30 - August 5, we compiled inspirational quotes about writing from some of the bestselling science fiction and fantasy writers out there. Like a quote? Share it on social media using #SFFWeek
Next: Level Up Your Goodreads Marketing
You might also like: Advice for Aspiring Indie Authors: Quotes About Writing
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
Posted by Cynthia on July 30, 2017
"I write for the same reason I breathe - because if I didn't, I would die," said the master of science fiction, Isaac Asimov. To celebrate Science Fiction and Fantasy Week on Goodreads this week, July 30 - August 5, we compiled inspirational quotes about writing from some of the bestselling science fiction and fantasy writers out there. Like a quote? Share it on social media using #SFFWeek
Next: Level Up Your Goodreads Marketing
You might also like: Advice for Aspiring Indie Authors: Quotes About Writing
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
Level Up Your Marketing on Goodreads
Posted by Cynthia on July 28, 2017
Thousands of romance authors are currently at the Most Magical Place on Earth to discover and discuss the latest trends in romance publishing at the annual conference of the Romance Writers of America. We learned about the trends of “Hot Hackers” and “Motorcycle Romance” and congratulated the RITA Award finalists and winners. We also shared some lessons about how authors can take their marketing on Goodreads to the next level.
Couldn’t make it to RWA? That’s OK. We’ve got the highlights of our presentation to share with you right here. Our panelists—Cynthia Shannon from Goodreads, Larissa Walker from Harlequin, and Danica Favorite, romance author—will be responding to any questions left in the comment section over the next few days.
The biggest takeaway from the presentation was for authors to think strategically about how they approach Goodreads, and how they can make their efforts work better together. Every activity should enhance the next, and each action should be part of driving the marketing flywheel.
Raising awareness—whether it’s as straightforward as an advertising campaign or participating in Romance Week (or any other Genre Weeks we plan throughout the year)—helps drive shelvings on Goodreads. One way to super-charge your shelvings is by running giveaways. Shelvings should lead to sales (which you might accelerate by running a Goodreads Deal). Those sales lead to people reading your book, sharing a review or their favorite highlights (via Kindle Notes and Highlights), and discussing it with others on Goodreads. Those reviews and discussions lead to even more awareness, and the whole cycle starts all over again.
All of this activity is amplified on Goodreads via the Newsfeed, which shows every activity you do on the site for all your followers to see. There is so much value in getting followers on Goodreads, as Goodreads automatically notifies those readers when a new book by an author they follow is released. Knowing how to strategically drive the marketing flywheel will take your marketing efforts to new heights.
We have several exciting products in the works for authors, including ebook Giveaways, Kindle Notes and Highlights, and Goodreads Deals. While we’re still working on opening up these features to all authors, some beta participants have already given us insight into how they can possibly be used for marketing purposes and drive that flywheel.
Danica Favorite shared some Kindle Notes & Highlights on her book, Rocky Mountain Dreams, in advance to our presentation. “I think this is an awesome tool for authors to be able to share their favorite parts of their books with readers and hopefully get some readers hooked!”
We’re excited to see how more authors and readers share their favorite passages and thoughts on their books. While Kindle Notes & Highlights is currently in beta, you can read about how to share your notes here.
Savvy authors know that different messages will reach different readers, so they’re constantly fine-tuning. By using the information that Goodreads readers share about your book, you’re able to massage your marketing materials to reflect what’s resonating with readers.
This is especially valuable when it comes to advance reviews. Consider how many sub-genres there are in romance, and how they can bleed over. You might think you’re writing a historical vampire romance but your readers are really seeing it more as a cowboy vampire romance (that could be a thing!). Start emphasizing the cowboy aspect instead of the historical part and you might just reach a better core audience of readers who will provide rave reviews.
There are many resources and case studies that authors can find on this blog and in the Goodreads Author Newsletter, so be sure to bookmark this page and review your email preferences under account settings.
Question or feedback about the presentation? Leave them in the comments below!
Next: Marketing Tips and Advice from Danica Favorite
You might also like: Romance Authors Make the Best Marketers
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
Posted by Cynthia on July 28, 2017
Thousands of romance authors are currently at the Most Magical Place on Earth to discover and discuss the latest trends in romance publishing at the annual conference of the Romance Writers of America. We learned about the trends of “Hot Hackers” and “Motorcycle Romance” and congratulated the RITA Award finalists and winners. We also shared some lessons about how authors can take their marketing on Goodreads to the next level.
Couldn’t make it to RWA? That’s OK. We’ve got the highlights of our presentation to share with you right here. Our panelists—Cynthia Shannon from Goodreads, Larissa Walker from Harlequin, and Danica Favorite, romance author—will be responding to any questions left in the comment section over the next few days.
1. Level up your marketing approach.
The biggest takeaway from the presentation was for authors to think strategically about how they approach Goodreads, and how they can make their efforts work better together. Every activity should enhance the next, and each action should be part of driving the marketing flywheel.
Raising awareness—whether it’s as straightforward as an advertising campaign or participating in Romance Week (or any other Genre Weeks we plan throughout the year)—helps drive shelvings on Goodreads. One way to super-charge your shelvings is by running giveaways. Shelvings should lead to sales (which you might accelerate by running a Goodreads Deal). Those sales lead to people reading your book, sharing a review or their favorite highlights (via Kindle Notes and Highlights), and discussing it with others on Goodreads. Those reviews and discussions lead to even more awareness, and the whole cycle starts all over again.
All of this activity is amplified on Goodreads via the Newsfeed, which shows every activity you do on the site for all your followers to see. There is so much value in getting followers on Goodreads, as Goodreads automatically notifies those readers when a new book by an author they follow is released. Knowing how to strategically drive the marketing flywheel will take your marketing efforts to new heights.
2. Level up your marketing tools.
We have several exciting products in the works for authors, including ebook Giveaways, Kindle Notes and Highlights, and Goodreads Deals. While we’re still working on opening up these features to all authors, some beta participants have already given us insight into how they can possibly be used for marketing purposes and drive that flywheel.
Danica Favorite shared some Kindle Notes & Highlights on her book, Rocky Mountain Dreams, in advance to our presentation. “I think this is an awesome tool for authors to be able to share their favorite parts of their books with readers and hopefully get some readers hooked!”
We’re excited to see how more authors and readers share their favorite passages and thoughts on their books. While Kindle Notes & Highlights is currently in beta, you can read about how to share your notes here.
3. Level up your marketing research.
Savvy authors know that different messages will reach different readers, so they’re constantly fine-tuning. By using the information that Goodreads readers share about your book, you’re able to massage your marketing materials to reflect what’s resonating with readers.
This is especially valuable when it comes to advance reviews. Consider how many sub-genres there are in romance, and how they can bleed over. You might think you’re writing a historical vampire romance but your readers are really seeing it more as a cowboy vampire romance (that could be a thing!). Start emphasizing the cowboy aspect instead of the historical part and you might just reach a better core audience of readers who will provide rave reviews.
There are many resources and case studies that authors can find on this blog and in the Goodreads Author Newsletter, so be sure to bookmark this page and review your email preferences under account settings.
Question or feedback about the presentation? Leave them in the comments below!
Next: Marketing Tips and Advice from Danica Favorite
You might also like: Romance Authors Make the Best Marketers
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
Marketing Tips and Advice from Danica Favorite
Posted by Cynthia on July 10, 2017
This summer, take a step back and focus on what you really need to do on Goodreads and in your writing career. As we’re getting ready to attend this year’s Romance Writers of America conference in Orlando, we asked Danica Favorite, author of Rocky Mountain Dreams and community host of the Harlequin.com, about her tips to interacting on Goodreads, balancing work life, family life, and writing life, and advice about attending the conference for the first time.
Let’s start simple: tell us about what you love most about Goodreads!
I love the chance to interact with readers, especially those I may not see otherwise.
What’s your approach to using the site as an author?
I’m still playing around with it in a lot of ways. I do not seek out reviews of my books, and I try hard not to read them. A good review will make you feel good, but a bad review makes you feel awful. It’s not a good idea to engage with reviewers, so I try to ignore that part completely. I participate in groups relevant to my books, Q&A’s, and interact with people on my page.
What have you learned in your role running the online community for Harlequin.com?
People really enjoy the opportunity to interact with authors. They still have their fan moments; it’s special to them when an author takes the time to say “Hi.” We authors forget how much that means to readers, and what to us is a passing comment is something they treasure for a long time. Sometimes that doesn’t translate to an immediate sale, but I’ve seen the community relationships turn into fandoms for life.
People remember that you took the time to get to know them and interact with them, so down the road, that translates to someone who’s always going to be talking about your books and how great you are, which does lead to more sales. That said, it will be quite clear if all you do is come around to pimp your book. Make sure you’re also working to participate in conversations, not just talk about about your latest release.
With so many ways of connecting now, it’s important to make sure you’re letting people know you have an event (even an online Q&A) in as many ways and places as possible, and asking your friends to do the same. I think we’re afraid of annoying people, with so many others out there posting cute puppy pictures, interesting articles, funny memes, etc., our message to come to our fun event or buy our books gets lost.
What is your favorite area of the site to explore on Goodreads?
I really like the groups and being able to see what people are talking about and participate in conversations.
Check out the Harlequin group on Goodreads!
What advice can you share with busy authors about online marketing? Having a plan is important, especially when you’re feeling overwhelmed. I work full time, have crazy busy kids, and I write! After spending all day promoting everyone else’s books, the last thing I want to do is promote my own (and to be honest, promoting myself is harder than promoting others).
The only way I get anything done promo-wise is to put doing it on my calendar. I don’t always succeed or pull off my marketing perfectly, but doing something, even if it’s not perfect, is better than doing nothing. Sit down once a week, or every other week, and plan out what you’re going to do for that week.
There are a lot of great apps like Hootsuite that can help you schedule all your posts across all platforms, and BAM! You don’t have to think about it for another week or however long you choose. Then, you take 10-15 minutes every day to respond to comments and comment on other people’s tweets or posts or whatnot. If you want to be more active, you can do it in a morning chunk, afternoon chunk, and evening chunk.
Any tips for navigating the RWA conference for the first time?
Pace yourself. Get the recordings and take a nap when you get tired. I schedule promotion, I also schedule naps! Even though you paid a lot of money to be there, resist the temptation to do everything. Identify a few things you really need to attend, and save the rest for the recordings
Danica will be joining Goodreads and Harlequin on panel at RWA on Friday, July 28. Read more about it here and make it your One Thing at the conference if you are attending.
Questions for Danica? Leave them for her in the comments below!
Next: The Five Readers You Meet in Publishing
You might also like: Romance Authors Make the Best Marketers
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
Posted by Cynthia on July 10, 2017
This summer, take a step back and focus on what you really need to do on Goodreads and in your writing career. As we’re getting ready to attend this year’s Romance Writers of America conference in Orlando, we asked Danica Favorite, author of Rocky Mountain Dreams and community host of the Harlequin.com, about her tips to interacting on Goodreads, balancing work life, family life, and writing life, and advice about attending the conference for the first time.
Let’s start simple: tell us about what you love most about Goodreads!
I love the chance to interact with readers, especially those I may not see otherwise.
What’s your approach to using the site as an author?
I’m still playing around with it in a lot of ways. I do not seek out reviews of my books, and I try hard not to read them. A good review will make you feel good, but a bad review makes you feel awful. It’s not a good idea to engage with reviewers, so I try to ignore that part completely. I participate in groups relevant to my books, Q&A’s, and interact with people on my page.
What have you learned in your role running the online community for Harlequin.com?
People really enjoy the opportunity to interact with authors. They still have their fan moments; it’s special to them when an author takes the time to say “Hi.” We authors forget how much that means to readers, and what to us is a passing comment is something they treasure for a long time. Sometimes that doesn’t translate to an immediate sale, but I’ve seen the community relationships turn into fandoms for life.
People remember that you took the time to get to know them and interact with them, so down the road, that translates to someone who’s always going to be talking about your books and how great you are, which does lead to more sales. That said, it will be quite clear if all you do is come around to pimp your book. Make sure you’re also working to participate in conversations, not just talk about about your latest release.
With so many ways of connecting now, it’s important to make sure you’re letting people know you have an event (even an online Q&A) in as many ways and places as possible, and asking your friends to do the same. I think we’re afraid of annoying people, with so many others out there posting cute puppy pictures, interesting articles, funny memes, etc., our message to come to our fun event or buy our books gets lost.
I really like the groups and being able to see what people are talking about and participate in conversations.
Check out the Harlequin group on Goodreads!
What advice can you share with busy authors about online marketing? Having a plan is important, especially when you’re feeling overwhelmed. I work full time, have crazy busy kids, and I write! After spending all day promoting everyone else’s books, the last thing I want to do is promote my own (and to be honest, promoting myself is harder than promoting others).
The only way I get anything done promo-wise is to put doing it on my calendar. I don’t always succeed or pull off my marketing perfectly, but doing something, even if it’s not perfect, is better than doing nothing. Sit down once a week, or every other week, and plan out what you’re going to do for that week.
There are a lot of great apps like Hootsuite that can help you schedule all your posts across all platforms, and BAM! You don’t have to think about it for another week or however long you choose. Then, you take 10-15 minutes every day to respond to comments and comment on other people’s tweets or posts or whatnot. If you want to be more active, you can do it in a morning chunk, afternoon chunk, and evening chunk.
Any tips for navigating the RWA conference for the first time?
Pace yourself. Get the recordings and take a nap when you get tired. I schedule promotion, I also schedule naps! Even though you paid a lot of money to be there, resist the temptation to do everything. Identify a few things you really need to attend, and save the rest for the recordings
Danica will be joining Goodreads and Harlequin on panel at RWA on Friday, July 28. Read more about it here and make it your One Thing at the conference if you are attending.
Questions for Danica? Leave them for her in the comments below!
Next: The Five Readers You Meet in Publishing
You might also like: Romance Authors Make the Best Marketers
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
The Five Readers You Meet in Publishing
Posted by Cynthia on June 19, 2017
As an author, you will encounter many different types of readers over the course of your career. Some will turn into adoring fans; others might remain a mystery. Here are five types of readers you’ll probably come across:
This kind of reader takes pride in reading books many months before they are published, reading books by authors you’ve never heard of, and leaving thoughtful book reviews most likely including quotes from the book.
On their bookshelf: Titles without final covers; debut authors.
Where you’ll find the Early Buzzer: Browsing giveaways. Read our tips for giveaways here.
Considering that the typical American reads about 5 books a year (source), you’ll most likely encounter the Casual Reader. This person leans towards popular bestsellers or classics.
On their bookshelf: The Girl on the Train, Catcher in the Rye, and something by Stephen King.
Where you’ll find the Casual Reader: Looking through listopia lists.
This person has every intention of reading your book, has heard so many great things about it and definitely will eventually read your book. There are just 300 books on the WTR shelf before it... (So many books, so little time!)
On their bookshelf: A lot of books in all kinds of genres.
Where find the Want-to-Reader: Hanging out in large, general book groups.
This reader will be meticulous in writing down every last detail of their reading experience, including where they purchased the book, how long it took them to read the book, where they read the book and what they were wearing that day. Most likely to point out any factual errors or inconsistencies your editor might have missed.
On their bookshelf: You’ll likely find multiple bookshelves organized by date, season, or challenge.
Where to find the Dedicated Reader: In the Goodreads Librarian Group, answering your questions about metadata.
This is the best kind of reader. Once they read your book, they fall in love with your writing and want to hear about everything you do. They’ll likely follow you on Goodreads and ask when you’ll be coming to their town on book tour. Expect lots of notifications of ‘likes’ on your content.
On their bookshelf: Other books in your genre. Books you’ve read and loved yourself.
Where to find the Follower: Asking thoughtful questions via Ask the Author (and in your list of followers!). You’ll want to engage with this reader since they’re the best advocates for spreading the word about your book! Find out here how to best engage on Goodreads using Ask the Author.
Have you encountered any of these types of readers in your publishing career? Tell us your experience in the comments below!
Next: Best of the Blog: Mid-Year Round Up
You might also like: Planning a Marketing Timeline: Infographic
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
Posted by Cynthia on June 19, 2017
As an author, you will encounter many different types of readers over the course of your career. Some will turn into adoring fans; others might remain a mystery. Here are five types of readers you’ll probably come across:
1. The Early Buzzer
This kind of reader takes pride in reading books many months before they are published, reading books by authors you’ve never heard of, and leaving thoughtful book reviews most likely including quotes from the book.
On their bookshelf: Titles without final covers; debut authors.
Where you’ll find the Early Buzzer: Browsing giveaways. Read our tips for giveaways here.
2. The Casual Reader
Considering that the typical American reads about 5 books a year (source), you’ll most likely encounter the Casual Reader. This person leans towards popular bestsellers or classics.
On their bookshelf: The Girl on the Train, Catcher in the Rye, and something by Stephen King.
Where you’ll find the Casual Reader: Looking through listopia lists.
3. The Want-to-Reader
This person has every intention of reading your book, has heard so many great things about it and definitely will eventually read your book. There are just 300 books on the WTR shelf before it... (So many books, so little time!)
On their bookshelf: A lot of books in all kinds of genres.
Where find the Want-to-Reader: Hanging out in large, general book groups.
4. The Dedicated Reader
This reader will be meticulous in writing down every last detail of their reading experience, including where they purchased the book, how long it took them to read the book, where they read the book and what they were wearing that day. Most likely to point out any factual errors or inconsistencies your editor might have missed.
On their bookshelf: You’ll likely find multiple bookshelves organized by date, season, or challenge.
Where to find the Dedicated Reader: In the Goodreads Librarian Group, answering your questions about metadata.
5. The Follower
This is the best kind of reader. Once they read your book, they fall in love with your writing and want to hear about everything you do. They’ll likely follow you on Goodreads and ask when you’ll be coming to their town on book tour. Expect lots of notifications of ‘likes’ on your content.
On their bookshelf: Other books in your genre. Books you’ve read and loved yourself.
Where to find the Follower: Asking thoughtful questions via Ask the Author (and in your list of followers!). You’ll want to engage with this reader since they’re the best advocates for spreading the word about your book! Find out here how to best engage on Goodreads using Ask the Author.
Have you encountered any of these types of readers in your publishing career? Tell us your experience in the comments below!
Next: Best of the Blog: Mid-Year Round Up
You might also like: Planning a Marketing Timeline: Infographic
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
