Social media can be intimidating. I often talk to unpublished writers who are on the fence about starting a blog, joining Facebook, or getting on Twitter. And I understand. We can't afford to waste hours dabbling on building a platform if the hours we spend ultimately yield no results.
I've been active on my blog, Facebook and Twitter for a long time, and I still search for advice that works.
But here's a true story of how simple and effective social media can be.
Our example starts with Goodreads. I recently joined this book lover's site after more than a year of considering it. After all, it was one more place I would have to devote precious minutes to on a regular basis. Also, I would need to figure out how it works and take time to set up an account. But I signed up, and promptly saw the super-funny, lovely blogger, Jennifer Shirk. I sent her a friend request and noticed the title of one of her "currently-reading" books, We are Not Alone: The Writer's Guide to Social Media. We talked via direct message about it, and I mentally tucked the information away.
Enter Twitter. Last summer, I'd come across Kristen Lamb (@KristenLambTX). She sent me a direct message, and I ended up checking out her fabulous website. The whole transaction left a Godiva chocolate taste in my mouth so I added her to one of my Twitter lists. Shortly after the online chit-chat with Jennifer on Goodreads, I noticed a retweet of one of Kristen's blog posts about social media. I went to the link and realized Kristen Lamb was the author of the above book! Her blog post, Blogging Part 6--Maintaining Your Sanity and Your Blog, was awesome. I mean it. Awesome. It's linked; go check it out.
As soon as I connected Kristen Lamb as the author of the social media book, I sprinted to Amazon and ordered her book--after re-tweeting her blog post, of course.
A variety of social media sites connected me with people I've never met, and influenced my decision to purchase a book. If I didn't have a blog, I wouldn't have found Jennifer Shirk. If I hadn't gotten the courage to join Goodreads, I wouldn't have noticed the book on Jennifer's list. If I hadn't made an effort on Twitter, I wouldn't have come across Kristen Lamb's blog and ultimately bought her amazing book on social media.
These connections matter. Do you want people to purchase your books? I just purchased one based entirely on social media. That's power, people.
So if you're scared of social media, don't be. It works. You aren't a sixteen-year-old in ill-fitting clothes hugging the wall at a high school dance. You're you. Make an effort to be friendly, and see where your social media efforts take you. You might be surprised!
Have a terrific weekend!
I'm so glad I started blogging and enjoying social media. I do it for the friends, encouragement, the news, book suggestions! It's all been worth it. Definitely.
ReplyDeleteGreat post! I teetered on the edge of starting a blog and Twittering, but I'm glad I did! I've met a lot of great people who have not only helped me, but have become friends. By the way I love goodreads. I've found some great books through browsing other's reviews. I think we have to be brave and put our toe in the water, just like the priests when they crossed over the Jordan! Have a great weekend!
ReplyDeleteI just discovered Kristen's site last week and thought, "Why did it take me so long to join this Twitter thing?" :) Great post, Jill!
ReplyDeleteGood push for us. They all seem to have a different flavor and getting used to each one can be tricky at times for me. :O)
ReplyDeleteIt's amazing how our paths cross virtually in this writing community. What a difference from not too long ago, pre-internet, when writers were so much more isolated in their journey.
ReplyDeleteAs I get more and more involved in social media I can definitely see how what you're describing would be the case. In addition to the connection, there is also comfort in knowing that there are other people out there in a similar situation as you, working toward similar goals.
ReplyDeleteSuch a great point and post! I met with a fellow writer at lunch the other day and she shared her hesitation. It's a time to be bold. I shared how many wonderful connections I've made. I love connecting people with each other too.
ReplyDeleteI need to get my hands on Kristen's book. (Besides I love her name and she introduced me to a killer lotion.)
~ Wendy
Good Morning!
ReplyDeleteLaura: I agree--and I get so much more out of it than what I put in. Bonus!
Jessica: Your dipping your toe in the Jordan analogy makes me smile. So true! We were made to have bold spirits!
Sarah: I know! It took me a while to figure out the point of Twitter, but now it's my favorite of the various sites. It's so easy to meet other writers and find great blogs.
Diane: Yes, they do. I connect on a more personal level on Facebook, a more writer level on Twitter, and a more reader level on Goodreads. Good point.
Joanne: You nailed it--connection. What a blessing to be able to talk to other writers all over the world!
Angela: Yes, and it's nice to see familiar faces. They take the edge off the fear factor.
Thanks so much for stopping by!
Wendy: Ha! Killer lotion? There's a story there... Yes, I'm so with you on wonderful connections and being bold. Roar!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for stopping by!
I like the diversity I find through social media. artists, authors, geeks, tech. So much interesting stuff to learn about
ReplyDeleteI just discovered Goodreads through your post, great tip, so thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI joined GoodReads over a year ago to keep track of all the books I want to read and I learned about these new reads mainly through blogs! I'd say majority of my reading are recommendations through 'social media.' So, yes, I'd definitely have to agree it works!
ReplyDeleteI've purchased many books because of social media. In fact, most books I purchase are ones I heard about from networking.
ReplyDeleteCJ: Me too. I love meeting so many diverse people--what a gift!
ReplyDeleteRachel: Welcome! Goodreads is a fun place to keep track of books. I really like it.
Lynn: I like Goodreads a lot too--what can I say--I'm a book nerd!
Susan: Yeah, I definitely give weight to recommendations. Plus, we don't have a large bookstore nearby, so I order books online.
Thanks so much for stopping by!
Still scared of Twitter. But I'm comfortable with the steps I've made so far--primarily blogging--but also reaching out to people in other ways. I think as I reach more writing goals, I'll branch out with social media more, too. Thanks for the input today, Jill!
ReplyDeleteDefinitely agree with your post, Jill! Funny, I just signed up for Goodreads recently. Also just stumbled on Kristen Lamb's awesome blog. Must be subconsciously following in your footsteps! Thanks for your words of encouragement concerning social media. I must say I've thoroughly enjoyed all these avenues! Have a great weekend! God bless!
ReplyDeleteI've met a plethora of wonderful people via social networking. I have yet to take the plunge and join Twitter, but I have a feeling that decision isn't too far away.
ReplyDeleteHave a great weekend!
I love social media. It makes the world so much smaller! The only bad thing is that sometimes it's too good of a distraction!
ReplyDeleteAnd I met you through social media!!
ReplyDeleteI love making friends and connections through social media. I'll have to go check out your link!
ReplyDeleteYou nailed it Jill! Social media is a driving agent for an author to learn and interact with their audience. I loved blogging from the first post, now add Twitter and Facebook and the connections and relationships are endless.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad I braved new waters:)
I need to get Kristen's book! Btw, if it weren't for social media I wouldn't know awesome people like you!
ReplyDeleteI love connecting with people on social media. I've made some great friends I wouldn't have had in my life if it weren't for blogs, Facebook or Twitter. Though, I'm still learning my way around Tweet world. :)
ReplyDeleteBlogging and Facebook intimidated me in the beginning. I wondered if I could write three posts a week for years. I'm now at the 500-post mark and enjoying the ride.
ReplyDeleteSocial media introduced me to wonderful people I would never have met any other way. I guess I was primed for the experience. You see, my late husband and I met through e.Harmony.com. :)
Thanks for the shout-out, Jill!
ReplyDeleteYou know it's funny, thru Kristen's book, I ended up buying the writing book she talked about that she loved and found thru Twitter thru another author. LOL
So yes, Social Media is a like a disease--a GOOD disease. LOL
Cindy: Yeah, learning a new site can be intimidating! I think it's smart to take it slow so it doesn't become overwhelming.
ReplyDeleteMaria: We're just too much alike! :) And I love them all too!
Melissa: When you sign up for Twitter, there will be many welcome arms waiting for you!
Katie: Ha! I know! But sometimes I need a distraction. :)
Terri: What a blessing! I'm so glad we connected!
Kara: Me too. That's one of the things many people don't realize--you get so much out of social networking, like friends.
Tamika: You're a perfect fit with social media too--you have a generous personality that draws people to you.
T. Anne: Yes, do! And I feel the same way. :)
Kathi: Writers today are blessed. It's a lonely career and social media allows us to not be as alone.
Susan JR: Woot! Congrats on passing 500 on your blog posts. That's a HUGE accomplishment. And I'm melting that you met your mate online. :)
Jennifer: Oh, I like how you described that--a good disease! Isn't that the truth!!
Thanks so much for stopping by!
I get what you're saying. I love the connections I can make. I love the fact that a YA author I like commented on my blog once. I just wish I were a little more socially savvy.
ReplyDeleteI had no idea what awaited when I jumped into the blogging thing, or Facebook, for that matter. Benefits galore! Sure, there are things to learn and navigate, and time to manage, but it is worth it.
ReplyDeleteAfter all, through it I've met you and so many other great writer-ly people! :)
Blessings,
Karen
I blog, facebook, goodread and tweet. I mostly lurk on twitter though. I haven't quite figured it out, but it's fun to watch what other people are saying.
ReplyDeleteBlogging has really made me feel close to so many people (waves, Jill) which has resulted in me buying a lot of books that I would never have purchased....I think it's that personal connection. :)
I started my blog in mid-2008 because all my research indicated I needed to begin developing some online visibility. It took a while but I eventually joined Facebook and then also Twitter. I was reluctant about both of the latter, not because I was nervous of the media, because of the potential time drain versus any benefit. Now, of course, I wish I'd tackled everything ages ago! The people I've met in the online writing community have been awesome and I've learned so much from them, too. I have a Goodreads account but must admit I'm not faithful about keeping it up to date.
ReplyDeleteJill:
ReplyDeleteI enjoy blogging; I have met some awesome people because of my efforts.
My experience on Facebook is not exactly what I expected. My intent was to be able to network on it. I am discouraged by the freinds I have who invite me to play those games. That's not why I am there.
I did connect my blog to my facebook account, thinking I'd pick up more followers. But, I'm not sure I have.
Jill: Isn't it exciting when a beloved author stops by? You just want to read the comment over and over!
ReplyDeleteKaren: Oh yes! I feel the same!
Sharon: Love your attitude (and waves right back!)!
Carol: Definitely! I worried about the time drain, too, but found it's quite manageable. :)
Quiet Spirit: I simply "ignore" all game requests on FB. I've found Facebook to be a more intimate, personal place for keeping up with and building friendships, whereas Twitter is just a fun place to connect with writers!
Thanks so much for stopping by!