One Plank At A Time

I've been asked to write for yet another blog. If I say yes, that will be my fifth. Which begs the question...how many blogs can she juggle, folks?

And that, once again, brings me back to platform. There's this whole numbers game that you must get your name in front of a prospective reader at least 7 times before they'll be familiar enough with you to buy your book.

But putting all your eggs in the blog basket probably isn't the best marketing strategy.

So I researched out some other platform ideas. Besides blogging/vlogging, here are alternate opportunities for you to consider...

ONLINE PLATFORMS

- Twitter

- Facebook

- Flickr

- Tumblr

- Goodreads

- Forums

IN-YOUR-FACE PLATFORMS

- Book Clubs

- Librarians (get to know them)

- Book store managers (get to know them, too)

- Women's groups

- Teach a community ed class

I'm not saying you have to do all these things. You'd never have time to write if you did. The point is to get yourself out there. Somewhere. And consistently. It's not like you have to win a popularity contest. You just need to be visible. Being visible sets you apart from the masses...which is a good thing when you're waving your latest release over your head.

But don't wait until you've got a new release, a contract in hand, or even finished your manuscript. It's never too soon to start. Authentic platforms take time.

Unless of course you're buddy buddy with Oprah.