In the following Live Streams and Blog Posts I will be discussing, at length, Promoting your art/book/work in 6 categories:
- Social Media
- Search Engine Optimization
- Content Creation
- Press
- Events
- Personal Contacts
In this live stream/Blog Post, let’s talk about some of the many social media platforms like YouTube, Twitch, Facebook, Instagram/Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Snapchat, Discord, Patreon, WhatsApp, Messenger App. Each platform has different ways to promote. For example, we use Facebook to promote our work, where we can create a group, invite people to join the group, create a page and invite people to like it, create an event, and invite people to RSVP. We can also create a livestream on that page, which is what we did today, and put the livestream up on YouTube. Some people pay to boost specific posts to increase their reach; we can choose the target audience and set a budget.
CHOOSING A SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM TO PROMOTE YOUR BOOK
When selecting a social media platform to promote your book, it’s crucial to align your choice with your target audience and the nature of your content. Each platform caters to distinct demographics and interests. Begin by identifying the primary demographic that would resonate with your book—consider age, interests, and online behavior. For visually-oriented content, platforms like Instagram or Pinterest may be ideal, while Twitter might be suitable for concise updates and engagement. If your book involves in-depth discussions or tutorials, platforms like YouTube or LinkedIn may be more effective. Additionally, assess the platform’s features for promotional activities, such as paid advertising, live streaming, or community building. Be mindful of your own comfort level with the platform and its dynamics. Ultimately, a thoughtful analysis of your target audience and a platform’s unique strengths will guide you in making an informed decision for an effective book promotion strategy.
We’ll also discuss the “Help Me Help Others” story, organic promotion, and the idea that one person telling another can be a powerful form of promotion. Following your passion, as Paul Gauguin said, ‘Stay firmly in your path and dare; be wild two hours a day.’
My first book was with a big publisher, and my second, my memoir, we self-published, so I did not have to compromise my vision of putting lots of colored art in between all my stories, embracing creative revery. Claude Monet once said, ‘The richness I achieve comes from nature, the source of my inspiration.’
We all have to face our fears and doubts. People may say discouraging things, but exposing your vulnerability can be a powerful act. Some may respond with cruel remarks, like when I found the courage to admit being raped: ‘You were looking for the adrenaline rush of the excitement of the danger.’ Fear makes people myopic, guilt closes hearts and minds, confused people say confusing things and blame victims. Let it go, rejoice, and focus on the kind things people say!”
Clare Cooley is a fiscal year 2023 recipient of a Creative Support for Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature; and by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.