You’re a businessperson. You may not think of yourself as a writer, but you know that writing well can boost your results and your career. Naturally, you want to do better. Every week I point you to articles and blog posts that I think will teach you something or spark an idea or two. The posts are about the intertwined tasks of reading and writing. Some weeks there are more pointers than others.
This week I’m pointing you to pieces on social media tips for authors, finding an agent to sell your book, and five things to consider before publishing your book. One of these pieces is also an excellent example of sponsored content.
From Frances Caballo: Twitter Lists & Other Social Media Tips for Authors
“The thought of creating an online presence can seem overwhelming to indie authors, but it doesn’t have to be. All you need are 30 minutes a day and these tips.”
From Jane Friedman: How to Find a Literary Agent for Your Book
“In today’s market, probably 80 percent of books published by New York houses get sold by literary agents. Agents are experts in the publishing industry and represent the interests of their author-clients. They have inside contacts with specific publishers and know which editors are most likely to buy a particular work. Perhaps most important, agents can secure the best possible book deal for you, negotiate a fair contract, protect your rights, ensure you are paid accurately and fairly, and run interference when necessary between you and the publisher.”
From Ingram Spark: 5 Things to Consider Before Publishing Your Book
“Throughout November, thousands of writers fought the noble fight to complete a book for National Novel Writing Month. If one of those writers was you, our most sincere congratulations; you’re basically a superstar. After spending an entire month pouring everything you had into your story, we encourage you not to lose momentum and to consider prepping that book for publication. Here are some tips to make sure you set your book up for success.”
Wally’s Comment: This post is an example of what good sponsored content can look like. Most sponsored content is a long-form ad attempting to look like an article. Most is long on promotion and short on information or help. The Ingram Spark post above is reader-focused and helpful.
Sources I Check Regularly
I find the posts and articles that I share with you on The Writing Edge in many places. But there are a few that provide insightful pieces again and again. Here they are.