Painting With Light

For Those Too Young to Remember … Yes, That IS a Telephone

Assuming you have a blog (and if you’re an indie writer, you really should), the simple answer is … it’s important.

I can hear you saying now, “Why? I suppose you’re going to tell me to be sure of my content, right? I mean, everywhere you turn these days someone is telling you content is king. OK. That’s all well and good … so what else is new?”

Content is NOT Everything
Don’t get me wrong. Content is important. People aren’t going to stop more than once to read what you say if it isn’t up to date, factually correct and relevant.

But that’s not the entire story. Blog visitors are usually looking for something more than simple content. Most of the time, what brings people back to any blog is not something they can easily put their finger on … but will know immediately when it’s not there.

Beyond simple writing quality and a trust in the accuracy of your information, your platform (your blog and, hopefully, your website) should convey your personality.

Because it’s that intangible resonance that only comes when you share a piece of yourself that gives readers faith in their connection with you, and brings them back … emotion.

That brings up the most important question you should answer about blogging. Why do you do it? Is it just to hear yourself rant, or do you really have something to say?

This particular blog is part of my platform, and I do it to share information with other author wannabes about the things I learn about the marvelous world of indie publishing.

But I readily admit that isn’t all there is to it. I also hope to educate folks about the fiction I write.

Is it Interesting?
I try to make my posts fact-filled and interesting … and I always ask myself two questions: (1) would I be embarrassed if everyone I know reads this, and (2) is this content WORTH sharing?

I also try to make sure posts aren’t political or religious in nature. A very wise man told me, years ago, “When you’re out with a group of friends, never discuss religion or politics. If you do, you may come home with fewer friends, or none at all.”

(Thanks, Pop).

Not that I don’t have opinions. Everyone does. That’s the point.

Don’t antagonize people. Make them think … omigod, yes, by all means, make them think … but don’t overdo it.

If You Want Readers, You Have to Be Interesting
I also ask myself will this interest my readers? After all, there’s a lot out there competing every day for a few precious moments of your time. It’s a good point to remember. If someone is visiting your site they’re there for YOU – so give them what they want. Make sure your personality is on display.

I always try to do that, and sometimes I even get it right.

Next Up
One of the things I’m going to try next is an on-camera interview, because it’s another proven way to connect with readers. When Stephen King released Full Dark, No Stars he did a live video interview, which you can view here.

I’m going to do that, too, except I’m not going to do it live. I’m going to have my son videotape me answering questions.

Where will the questions come from? Well, I could always write them myself, but I think it’s a good idea to get a few from you, too. You’re more likely to ask me things I never thought of before.

I’ve already commented on a few social media sites that I plan to record the interview, and I’m soliciting questions. When people have responded, I’ll tape myself answering, upload the video to YouTube, embed it on this blog and link it to The Twitter and The Book of Face.

I hope to find a lot of folks interested in a chance to peer into the dark, cluttered recesses of my occasionally creative mind.

In the end, it’s all part of gaining that critical exposure I need, as an indie trying to sell his books.

You Must Be Part of the Social Media Community
It’s true in the regular publishing world, too … before you can sell your books, you have to get them noticed. Major publishers have bigger budgets than most indies (mine is a few pennies above zero, unless I want to acquire a sizeable amount of debt), but their focus is the same.

Get the word out.

They expect you to have a platform. So, whether it’s a blog like this, on the Book of Face, The Twitter or someplace like Pinterest or Goodreads, as an indie you need to share your story.

Remember, don’t merely shout buy my books! Review other writers and introduce your readers to works you admire.

Be helpful, be creative, be fun. Be a friend. Plan a Goodreads book giveaway, like the one below. Let other writers introduce your work to their fans. There’s strength in numbers.

Now, I’m off getting ready to prepare my video … and I’m waiting to hear your questions.

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Enter to win

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My books have garnered some terrific reviews. You can see the stories I have available by using the Amazon link below.

You’re also invited to visit my web site, BROKEN GLASS, or like my Book of Face page. You can also follow my shorter ramblings on The Twitter.

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Comments posted below will be read, greatly appreciated and perhaps even answered.