What really works in terms of online marketing?

There are so many tactics out there, all of which work in varying degrees, but if you’re a busy author, with kids and a day job, you want to hone in on the best strategies that have the maximum effect. Social Media Marketing Everyone has a Twitter and Facebook account these days, but very few know how to use them optimally.

The power of Twitter lies in reaching large numbers of people in your target market. Short, hard sell promotional Tweets do not work. Instead, concentrate on relationship building. Read up about using hash tags. This helps you to reach like-minded people who may be interested in your work.

Facebook is a great social networking tool. I’ve made many wonderful, supportive ‘friends’ on Facebook. Because conversations are longer, meaningful relationships are easier to develop than on any other social media platform.

Consider joining groups with large followings, so when you do post, you reach a larger group than if you just posted on your own wall.

Timing also makes a difference. I restrict my posts to once a day on both FB and Twitter, and usually in the afternoon, as that way I know I’m reaching my US market, which is online by then.

Website/Blog
· Your website is the hub of all your marketing activity. All your profiles, biographies, bylines and social media profiles should link back to your website.

· An email subscribe form on your website will help you build a list of dedicated fans. These are people who are interested in your books and want to be contacted when you release your next novel. To this effect, make sure a Contact Me button is clear and visible on your site.

· Your website provides information on your books such as where to buy them, blurbs and positive reviews.

 · Your website should list your awards and accreditations – so as to build your credibility.

 · List any events or signings that you’re attending so your fans have an opportunity to meet you in person.

Interviews and Guest Posts.

Follow worthwhile blogs, especially those in your target market. Ask to be interviewed by the ones you enjoy the most. The same goes for guest posts. Your aim here is not to make sales, but to build your brand, gain recognition and get your message out there where it will be picked up by search engines. Use key phrases particular to your genre, pen name or books in all your articles and interviews so they are easily picked up by online searches.

Take time to respond. Your readers are your biggest fans and your bread and butter. Answer every email, tweet or post you get from readers and nurture those relationships. This can take a huge amount of time, but it’s worth it. Set time aside for this. But don’t let it get in the way of your daily writing routine.

Louise Rose-Innes

Author @ LouiseRoseInnes.comhttp://www.LouiseRoseInnes.com

Blogmeistress @ Marketing for Romance Writers