Thank you for this nudge! I’m better at daily fitness than connecting, but you’ve sparked an idea. I read a lot. Of course. Maybe if I share a random nugget I learn, it will be helpful enough to build a community. At the very least, I will build my own bank of tips. I’ll test in the confines of Bluesky, @reviseandrepeat (feels a little icky 😕)
"Focus on connection, not promotion" - this is so true. As a writer, this is what feeds me most-sharing and connecting with others through stories. These are all great tips and I am excited to try some off them as I think about my writing goals in the year ahead! Thank you for sharing.
You're welcome Sarah. I'm not a fan of the "hard sell". When I worked at Harcourt I handled film/TV, and sub rights and licensing. It was two years before I realized I was a "salesperson" because I was having so much fun --and everything I suggested to people was because I thought it could help them grow, or it complimented what they were already doing.
I so agree! It's really about a mission, being authentic, helping and connecting with others. And what an exciting job! That sounds like it was amazing! Especially being a part of helping books transition to screen, where stories can continue to grow and be shared with others in new ways. I've bookmarked this post to come back to as I think through new goals for this year. Thanks again!
It was a great job, Sarah, back in the day. I not only optioned for TV/Film but the licensing was for plush toys, games, paper goods like wrapping paper... Really fun stuff. I loved my time at Harcourt (I started when it was still HBJ).
Good ideas, thank you for sharing. As someone with ADHD I'm as introverted as a snail and prefer to market in writing. Writing social media posts is helpful for raising awareness. It can feel like an echo chamber until I look at the stats and realise the posts do make an impact.
That's great, Sarah. I feel the same way sometimes about the echo chamber, but everyone here in Substack have been so supportive. I'm glad you're finding that elsewhere as well.
Writers have an advantage in marketing on social media because writing is a core skill for marketing. Elsewhere I keep it short and sweet. Substack is the first community media I’ve come across where writing gets its due recognition. Even Notes are creative, well written and enjoyable. And you’re right about the supportiveness :-)
BTW I had to share this on Bluesky too - someone had to make it about something it wasn't (because it's still social media) and I had to drown out the hopelessly grumpy with a positive vibe :)
Glad it helps, Liz. If you know you're going to write a book -- or at least thinking of one, it's not too early to start. You should check out the free webinar. We'll talk about this topic -- but you're also welcome to ask ANY questions you have about any topic.
I know eventually I will have to step into this space, and I feel better prepared when that day comes thanks to your tips. I appreciate you sharing your journey and the real-life examples, too!
I agree. For some it's beneficial to be on multiple platforms. It's just not for me. I tried to revive my Insta, but I just wasn't feeling it and resisted posting or going there, but I feel OK on Bluesky.
Thank you for this nudge! I’m better at daily fitness than connecting, but you’ve sparked an idea. I read a lot. Of course. Maybe if I share a random nugget I learn, it will be helpful enough to build a community. At the very least, I will build my own bank of tips. I’ll test in the confines of Bluesky, @reviseandrepeat (feels a little icky 😕)
I think that's a good idea, Chris. I also like the handle. Which part feels icky?
Revealing my handle! You know, actually opening up to connection, as opposed to shouting into the void.
One step at a time 😊 and I’ve followed you.
😊 Followed back!
Great advice and examples! This post is helping me get my creative wheels turning as I figure out a 2025 social media strategy. Thank you, Renee!
That's so awesome, Christa! If you think of something else that would be helpful, don't hesitate to update us all :)
Such wonderful advice. I especially love this
"Focus on connection, not promotion" - this is so true. As a writer, this is what feeds me most-sharing and connecting with others through stories. These are all great tips and I am excited to try some off them as I think about my writing goals in the year ahead! Thank you for sharing.
You're welcome Sarah. I'm not a fan of the "hard sell". When I worked at Harcourt I handled film/TV, and sub rights and licensing. It was two years before I realized I was a "salesperson" because I was having so much fun --and everything I suggested to people was because I thought it could help them grow, or it complimented what they were already doing.
I so agree! It's really about a mission, being authentic, helping and connecting with others. And what an exciting job! That sounds like it was amazing! Especially being a part of helping books transition to screen, where stories can continue to grow and be shared with others in new ways. I've bookmarked this post to come back to as I think through new goals for this year. Thanks again!
It was a great job, Sarah, back in the day. I not only optioned for TV/Film but the licensing was for plush toys, games, paper goods like wrapping paper... Really fun stuff. I loved my time at Harcourt (I started when it was still HBJ).
Good ideas, thank you for sharing. As someone with ADHD I'm as introverted as a snail and prefer to market in writing. Writing social media posts is helpful for raising awareness. It can feel like an echo chamber until I look at the stats and realise the posts do make an impact.
That's great, Sarah. I feel the same way sometimes about the echo chamber, but everyone here in Substack have been so supportive. I'm glad you're finding that elsewhere as well.
Writers have an advantage in marketing on social media because writing is a core skill for marketing. Elsewhere I keep it short and sweet. Substack is the first community media I’ve come across where writing gets its due recognition. Even Notes are creative, well written and enjoyable. And you’re right about the supportiveness :-)
This advice is incredible. Thank you for sharing all these examples! I actually think I can do some of these things and now I’m excited. Thank you!
Susan, YAAAAY! 🥳. That made me so happy to hear! 🥰 I’m going to smile all day 😊
BTW I had to share this on Bluesky too - someone had to make it about something it wasn't (because it's still social media) and I had to drown out the hopelessly grumpy with a positive vibe :)
I don’t think I’m quite at this stage yet, but (for my introverted self) this was very helpful to read and think about for the future!
Glad it helps, Liz. If you know you're going to write a book -- or at least thinking of one, it's not too early to start. You should check out the free webinar. We'll talk about this topic -- but you're also welcome to ask ANY questions you have about any topic.
I know eventually I will have to step into this space, and I feel better prepared when that day comes thanks to your tips. I appreciate you sharing your journey and the real-life examples, too!
You’re welcome. I will write a part 2 as I find new things.
really lovely examples! i like reframing promoting to sharing, and sharing is caring after all :)
Thank you, Istiaq. I agree, sharing is caring.
I agree. For some it's beneficial to be on multiple platforms. It's just not for me. I tried to revive my Insta, but I just wasn't feeling it and resisted posting or going there, but I feel OK on Bluesky.