Here’s one thing I know for sure: Post published activity is every bit as important as pre-published activity.As we all do, I worked hard on my manuscript. I edited and proofed until I was completely satisfied that my book would be the very best work I could produce. When it was launched I wasn't quite sure what came next. I know that my publisher worked hard to sell the book and used every avenue available to ‘get it out there’ (she still works tirelessly at this job – thank you Rochelle). But the business woman in me also knew that it was my job to do what I could to sell, not only the book, but myself as an author.
The plan I came up with was to explore every promotional avenue that came into my head. Then pray like mad for the Lord to work. I wanted what He had for me, because,( truth be known), I knew He had a place for my work, I just wasn't entirely certain where that was. So I e-mailed, cold called and offered my newly published book to a variety of outlets, both Christian and mainstream.
The response astounded me. What came back to me was overwhelming. It was also surprising. The avenues I had thought would open up didn't, and the excitement and interest came from unusual sources. For a second I became a little despondent. What was going on? Then I remembered my prayers; that the Lord would bring back everything He wanted and assign His place for me.
I suddenly started to rejoice in, not only the incredible things He gave to me, but also for the things He did not.
I also realised another very important factor. You have to work. All the time I spent on pursuing the avenues that did not yield a return was still time well spent. I know my work is where the Lord wants it to be, where He can utilise it to His glory, and where I will reap the most joy.
So my conclusions are: Work hard. Do all that you can. Explore EVERY avenue. Don’t sit back and wait for direction – just do it. Then leave it to God.
And finally: Rejoice in the wonders of His work.
Rose Dee's first novel 'Back to Resolution' was launched in November at The Word Writers Fair in Brisbane last month. A 'Public Launch' will take place next Saturday in Mackay North Queensland. Visit Rose at: www.rosedee.com
Well done, Rose, for trusting God. Yes, there is more to being an author these days than just writing. You are in business and it seems God has a few surprises in store for you. Enjoy the journey!
ReplyDeleteHi Rose,
ReplyDeleteYou're so right. The 'business woman' in me is very extremely deep so I consider the advice from people like you and Laura very well worth taking. Great products deserve a great marketing campaign, that's for sure.
Congratulations, Rose, and best wishes for your Saturday event! I have also experienced that God rewards hard work (with the right intentions), and I particularly liked the fact that you thanked Him for the things He did NOT give you. That's an important point. Wishing you the best of spiritual success for your book...
ReplyDeleteWell done Rose. You are so right! Post publishing work is pretty important isn't it? It would be wonderful if we writers could just write our books... and not worry about the publicity and sales afterwards. That sounds blissful.. at least for me! :) But... God does teach us through all of the different parts of being a writer doesn't He?
ReplyDeleteAll the best for your book launch Rose! Am sure it will be a great success.
God bless,
Anusha
Thanks Rose. The marketing experience is only just beginning for me and I have nine months before I can get the book in people's hands. So thanks for the inspiration.
ReplyDeleteI have come to the conclusion that the book is only a small part of our work as writers. Who would have thought? I actually find it quite exciting that there is much that we can do ourselves to promote the content or message of our books. My latest manuscript has yet to be published but already I am making the most amazing contacts that will further the cause behind my story.
ReplyDeleteAuthors and publishers both have a lot to do pre and post marketing. The struggle I think that we don't always consider is that most of the time a book is seen to have a life (only when it is new) but those really outstanding authors, the ones that outlast that "new" time are the ones who get out there. I am not sure if it is up to the author, publisher or God to decide who gets to be that. But I do think it is a bit of all. Good on you Rose for getting out there and I pray the Resolution books go down as ones to last. (And read again and again ...)
ReplyDeleteI agree with you Rose and we are all in the same boat.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you Rose. I figure - take the bull by the horns, grab every opportunity that opens up, and see what God will do with it. If I sit around waiting for something to happen, probably nothing will. Someone said to me "It is very hard to steer a stationary vehicle." So true, when we step out, then God can move.
ReplyDeleteI hope you have an great book launch. I got told recently to count rejections as a blessing (this is for looking for work) and I have found that I have found that it can work out. I have had a couple of rejections that I can count as a blessing as I realised I wouldn't been able to do them and realise God knew that.
ReplyDeleteI think the same could be said for promotion where the out lets that reject you if we count them as a blessing rather than disappointment we give honor to God and he blesses us.
(It was an author Julie Lessman that told me this)
Thanks for taking the time to read and comment guys. It's all a bit overwhelming at times, but I keep coming back to 'THE PLAN' - not mine of cause (I don't have one except to work, follow and trust) but God's plan. It's better than anything I could ever come up with. Now: back to my daily chores of making mango chutney. It seems post published authors still need to feed their husbands!!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteHi Rose, I saw your book on the Aussie author's stand at Koorong today. It looked good, I almost jumped out of the long queue to have a peek. My toddler had other ideas about being in the line at Koorong so I thought it best to keep moving! (Like chucking my car keys away and pulling books off shelves and making me wish I had my stroller with me to strap him in and keep the stock safe!) Will pick it up next time for sure.
ReplyDelete:)
Thanks for a great post by the way. :)
Great advice and encouragement, Rose Dee! Thank you ;)
ReplyDeleteCongrats Rose and enjoy your book launch this weekend! It's great to hear your promo efforts are bearing fruit in unexpected places :)
ReplyDeletePenny, I so get the long line syndrome. I was the mother that strapped her child into the stroller or the trolly, so no judgement here.
ReplyDeleteThank you all for your comments. Very much appreciated. xo