It can get depressing, this over the top emphasis on marketing and promotion that we writers are supposed to engage in. We need websites. That’s a given. We’re supposed to set up blogs. And write in them daily, and do that while we’re trying to meet deadlines. We need to take out loans and buy expensive ads in magazines. We need newsletters. We need a fan base. And let’s not forget attending conferences and networking, networking, networking. (It’s not called making friends anymore: it’s called networking.)
And now we writers are told that that’s not enough. There is already a buzz on writer’s internet writer’s groups about podcasting and producing trailers for our books. (Trailers for books?)
I think things have gotten a little out of hand. And the reason I know this is that more and more writers are feeling depressed over this very thing. They’ve done all they can and still the numbers (as in sales) aren’t good enough. This whole thing is leaving many writers too stressed to do what they are actually called to do - write.
I believe we’re all aiming our telescopes at the wrong planet. We need to change our focus from comparing ourselves to other writers, by getting our eyes off our Amazon rating and onto God.
So, yes, we should do what we can to promote our books, and then write the best books we can, and I know it sounds simplistic, but leave the results with God.
Looking for a place to feel inspired and challenged? Like to share a smile or a laugh? Interested in becoming more familiar with Canadian writers who have a Christian worldview? We are writers who live in different parts of Canada, see life from a variety of perspectives, and write in a number of genres. We share the goal of wanting to entertain and inspire you to be all you can be with God's help.
Friday, January 12, 2007
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2 comments:
Podcasting? Trailers? Gee, thanks for piling the pressure on, Linda! ;) (Just kidding!) Actually, thanks for the reminder that it can be unhealthy to compare ourselves to other authors instead of relying on God's guidance. We can put so much unnecessary pressure on ourselves (as if being a writer isn't stressful enough at times). I appreciate this perspective from an author who is as successful as you are.
Good thought, Linda. I'm taking a marketing course right now - oh my! - overwhelming is the right word - but I had an interesting thought as I was doing my homework today. I'll be posting that tomorrow.
Blessings, Marcia
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