I haven't missed a day of writing since January 1, 2006. It's fairly easy for me because I need to write like I need to breathe. Not every writer is like that, but every writer needs to get as close to that feeling as he or she can. Why is it important to write every day? Because the more you write, the better you get at it, and because earning a living as a writer … [Read more...]
Your Two Audiences
Every writer has two audiences, but too few take advantage of both. If you want to really grow your writing business, it's important that you're serving readers and other writers. How to Serve Your Readers – Audience #1 Your first audience includes the people who love reading what you write, and that group is well served by most authors. All you have to do to make your … [Read more...]
Pricing Your eBook
There are three considerations that can help you determine the sweet spot for you eBook's price. The price points of similar eBooks. Your standing in the market. The purpose and plan for your eBook. Let's take a closer look at each of these points. #1: The price points of similar eBooks Your eBook should be priced like others like it. Don't fall into the trap of … [Read more...]
Conform or Stand Out?
As writers, we're all competing for readers' attention, so isn't being different the way to go? The short answer is no. Readers – fans of fiction or nonfiction – have expectations that are often formed by convention and standards. If you stray too far outside of those expectations, you're going to disappoint your readers. From cover art to content and length, you have to … [Read more...]
Easy eBook Distribution
Self-publishing through Amazon KDP is about the easiest way to put your eBooks into readers' hands, but what about those other places like iBooks, NOOKPress, and Kobo? There are very few times I suggest making your eBooks exclusive to Amazon, so what's the easiest way to handle those other platforms? I use and recommend Draft2Digital.com for all of your non-Amazon publishing … [Read more...]
Amazon or Bust, Right?
When it comes to eBook and print book sales, Amazon is king, right? Not necessarily. Amazon's sales may account for approximately 70% of the book-buying market, but that other 30% is powerful. Even more important: Your market might not be "book buyers." Let me address that 30% first. Using a nice, round number like 1,000,000, that means that of all the eBook and book … [Read more...]
I’ve Published – Now What?
Publishing is often bittersweet. All of the writing you've done has come to an end, and now the world has access to your work. Now what? There's a void in your day once a writing project is published, and coupled with the end of the adrenaline rush from that last push to finish, you can hit a wall. There are three things you need to do immediately. Celebrate your … [Read more...]
Sales vs. Profits
Making a sale is one of the most exciting parts of being a writer, but when does a sale become a profit? Knowing the answer to this question is paramount to establishing a successful writing business. Every business has expenses, and if you're a writer, you have them to. It's important to track what each project costs you, so you can determine when your sales truly turn to … [Read more...]
