Novel Marketing Episode Archive
060 – Q&A Extravaganza & Big Announcement
Question from Jen Q: I really enjoyed this podcast, but I'm curious as to how aspiring writers are supposed to use Facebook and Twitter differently? Question from J.T. Stoll Author of The Rift I'm an indie fantasy author and trying to figure out how much time...
Announcing MyBookTable 2.0 – Now With Amazon Reviews and Amazon Bulk Book Importer
It is hard to imagine, but MyBookTable is almost two years old. Over that time, we have rolled out update after update, making the plugin easier, more compatible, and more powerful. Our little plugin has come a long way from the version the community funded on...
059 – Novel Tax Tips for Authors
Navigate taxes for writers with insights from a seasoned CPA. Discover deductions and avoid costly mistakes you can avoid when filing taxes.
058 – Powerful Marketing Lessons from Taylor Swift
Show Notes: She is involved in her own marketing. She’s transparent, which builds familiarity and trust She uses every channel -- differently She says "no" when her brand is devalued Her product is inspirational and unexpected She makes smart partnerships She's a...
057 – What to Include in an Author Newsletter
As you know, we talk a lot about how effective author newsletter are. Of all the online marketing tools I feel that email is the most powerful. Most social networks are just an extension of email. People go to Facebook when they get an email about a new photo or...
056 – How to Become More Confident
Rejection and failure can crush your confidence. Learn six ways to rebuild and grow your confidence as an author.
055 – Book Scavenger Hunts
A book scavenger hunt is an effective way to connect with authors and new readers. Find out how it works and how you can host your own.
Authors: Piracy is Not Your Enemy
Many authors are terrified that someone will steal their work. They don’t realize their true enemy is obscurity not piracy.
MyBookTable Passes 10,000 Downloads
A few years ago, we realized that trying to sell your book through your website can be a pain. That's why we created MyBookTable. It's a Wordpress plugin designed to help authors sell more books and make affiliate money through sites like Amazon and Barnes &...
053 – How to Throw a Facebook Party for Your Book Interview With Nadine Brandes
Show Outline: Here's the run-down on how I threw the FB Party: What is a Facebook party? How do You prepare? How did you promote? What prizes did you use? How to you run a Facebook party. (Jim) I had a core group of people (~30) on a launch team who committed to...
052 – To Book Trailer, or Not Book Trailer … that is the question
Book trailers are an interesting animal. Some people swear by them and claim they’re an extremely effective marketing tool, some say they’re a waste of time and money. Listener question from Elizabeth Jane Kitchens author of The Beast's Enchantress "What's your...
051 – Bestseller Marketing Tactics With Brand Manager Kevin Kaiser
Quick Links: GetThisBook.com 1000 True Fans KevinKaiser.co Transcript Thomas Umstattd Jr.: So in this episode, as you’ve probably figured out, we’re going to be talking to Kevin Kaiser. And for those of you who don’t know who Kevin is, Kevin is a marketing guru, one...
050 – Q&A Extravaganza #3
This is our 50th episode, and to celebrate we are throw yet another Q&A extravaganza. Questions: Sarena Masco What advice would you give to someone who is in the process of creating two identifying brands for separate fields? For example, one brand would be as a...
049 – How to Use Crowdfunding to Fund Your Next Book Advance
In this episode we are going to talk about how independent authors can use crowdfunding to promote and pay for their next book. What is crowdfunding? Mary DeMuth’s Story Marci Seither’s Story The Adventures of Pearley Monroe." Benefits of Crowdfunding: Get money now,...
MySpeakingEvents Now on Kickstarter
At Author Media we work with a lot of professional speakers. Their websites all need an event calendar to help build enthusiasm for upcoming events. The problem is, all the WordPress event calendars either were either way too complicated or did not work.... or both....
048 – The Right Way and the Wrong Way to Sign Books
Book signings are likely the most personal connection you’ll have with a reader. Because of that, it’s an important opportunity that could either leave the reader with a memorable experience, or could alienate a new friend. In this episode, we discuss the right way to...
047 – How to Pick the Perfect Genre to Write In
Many writers love to write in multiple genres, is that a good idea? Should they narrow it down? If so, how should a writer pick the one with the best chance of selling? We answer these questions and more in this week's episode.
046 – Why You Should Love It When Your Novel Gets Pirated
What if we said that getting your work ripped off could significantly boost your sales? In this episode, we explore why getting stolen from should make your day. [atp_links linktype="sbutn"]
045 – Five Keys to Working with Book Stores, Before You’re Published and After
Some say bookstores are only interested in promoting the best-selling authors. While that's not true, getting their focus will take some tricks and techniques. In this episode, we cover five keys to getting the attention of physical, walk-in bookstores.
044 – Writing for Your Website – How To Craft Pages That Readers Actually Want to Read
Is your website copy boring readers? You only have seven seconds to capture attention so make sure your web copy works.
A Viral Recipe for Your Blog
“You don’t need to write a book to change the world with your ideas. A good blog post can reach more people in one month than the typical book reaches in a lifetime.” This my common refrain when I speak at writers conferences.
I had the chance to prove my theory this month. A post on my personal blog about courtship went viral to and sparked a nationwide discussion.
043 – How to Create A Breakthrough Author Brand Step 3 – Look Through Your Readers
Learn how to listen in when your readers talk about you, and find out how their words can help refine your author brand.
042 – How to Create A Breakthrough Author Brand Step 2: Look at Your Readers
Branding is one of the most confusing topics under the umbrella of marketing. In this episode, we look at the second step of creating a breakthrough author brand.
041 – How to Create A Breakthrough Author Brand Step 1 – Look in the Mirror
Branding is one of the most confusing topics under the umbrella of marketing. In this article, you’ll learn the first step to creating your author brand.
040 – 40th Episode Q&A Extravaganza
In this episode we answer questions from listeners like you. If you would like to ask a question for a future Q&A episode click here. Question 1 “I was recently divorced and remarried and now I have a new last name. Should I change the name on my website and...
039 – How Writers Should Market Themselves to Editors With Karen Ball
In this episode, we talk with agent and former editor Karen Ball.
The Ultimate Crowdfunding Course for Authors Is Here
We've spent quite a bit of time at Author Media talking about crowdfunding-- what it is, how awesome it is, and how to make it happen. A few months ago, we turned that talk into action, and put our own "Crowdfunding Is Awesome" theory to the test in just about the...
038 – How to Find an Inspiration Oasis in a Creativity Desert With Allen Arnold
In this episode, we talk with Allen Arnold about the deserts a writer can get stuck in, and how to get out.
The Upside and Downside of Free Books
Learn the pros and cons of offering your books for free and how you can incorporate giveaways into your overall marketing strategy.
Angela Hunt’s Journey from Unpublished to Over 1 Million Book Sales
Angela Hunt shares her publishing journey.
What is a Literary Agent and Do You Still Need One?
Learn why you might need a literary agent and what they can offer to authors navigating the publishing industry.
What Should Novelists Blog About?
Many novelists have a hard time with blogging, so they end up ignoring this powerful tool. In this article, you’ll find out what to blog about and what to avoid.
030 – Selling An Editor So She Can Sell to Pub Board With Allen Arnold
This week we are talking with Allen Arnold about how to overcome that mysterious barrier to publication called "pub board."
7 Kickstarter Mistakes We Made on MyBookTable
Kickstarter is changing the way that self-published authors are raising money for their books. Here are some hard lessons we learned on our first project.
Special Announcement: Spirit Bridge by James L. Rubart
Spirit Bridge by our very own James L. Rubart has just launched. Check it out at Amazon or at a book store near you.
How to Self-Publish for Free
Did you know there was a way to self publish with any company in the world without having to go out of pocket for the cost? Here is how to do it.
029 – How to Start a Mastermind Group
An author mastermind group can accelerate your writing and publishing career. Find out how you can start one.
028 – Book Rollouts Vs Book Launches With James Scott Bell
A popular marketing strategy is to put together a huge launch even focused around the launch date of the book. You are not a fan of the big fan of that strategy. Why not? Walk us through the marketing techniques you used for your last book. Tell us about your...
7 Questions Authors Should Ask Before Crowdfunding Their Next Book
Should you look to your audience to provide the funds for your next book? Christy award finalist Mary DeMuth asks seven questions to help you decide.
How to Create an Elevator Pitch So Good That People will Stop the Elevator to Hear More
In this episode, we're going to be talking about the legendary elevator pitch and how to create the kind of elevator pitch that gets people to want to listen and hear more about your book. Jim: I see an elevator pitch as a simple one-sentence description of what your...
025 – 25th Episode Q&A Extravaganza
In this episode we answer questions from listeners like you. If you would like to ask a question for a future Q&A episode click here. Question 1 "My question has to do with a specific niche - my novel is Christian fiction, including dragons, but not your typical...
024 – An Easy Line to Help Introverted Authors Promote Their Writing to Complete Strangers
In this episode we talk about a powerful and easy way to market yourself and your writing to complete strangers … even if you’re a total introvert.
The Best Podcasts For Authors & Writers
Want to level up your publishing career? Here are 9 writing podcasts that can help authors like you.
023 – SMART Goals the Key to Marketing Success
Learn how successful authors set SMART goals to foster perseverance and make progress in their writing career.
022 – 12 Ways to Get More Facebook Fans
In this episode we are going to talk about Facebook. And more specifically, how to get more Facebook fans. Why Facebook is still important: Still the biggest social network (after email) Publishers pay attention to Facebook, particularly your PTAT score. 12 Ways to...
021 – Queen Esther, Staggered Marketing & Why Waiting to Ask Can Boost Book Sales
Talking Points: Esther Story: Esther Had a Tough Marketing Position Not in favor with the King Had a big ask. What does she do? She offers value and invites the King to a banquet in his honor. At the banquet does she offer her big ask? No, she invites him to a second...
020 – To Brag, or not to Brag, that is the Question!
I know, you’re wondering where we’re going with this. You’re probably saying, “Isn’t that the Novel Marketing podcast is all about?” Yes, it is, but in this episode, we’re going to tackle the age old question, should you promote yourself, or find someone else to do it for you?
019 – The #1 Killer of Good Book Covers & Websites: Design By Committee
Talking Points What is Design by Committee? Something that everyone likes is typically something no one loves. Compromise leads to bad design. A camel is a horse designed by a committee. Think of a recipe. If you try to accommodate everyone's preference you end up...
Announcing MyBookTable 1.3
MyBookTable is now the #1 WordPress Bookstore plugin on the WordPress repository. We have been hard at work making MBT even better. We are excited to announce version 1.3 now with GetNoticed! Integration and much more.
017 – 12 Tips to Help You Nail Your Next Podcast Interview
James & Thomas talk about how to ace your next podcast or radio interview.
Why I Love (And Hate) Digital Books
You would think that, working at a company called "Author Media," all of the employees would be digital book fanatics, carrying around our Kindles all the time, everywhere. But that's not the case. I, for one, have had a hard time being won over by digital books. I...
016 – How to Prepare for a Podcast Interview
Show Notes Resolve to be as entertaining and helpful as possible. The more value you offer the more in demand you will be. If you shoot for being helpful you will be both helpful and will sell books. If you shoot for selling books you will be neither help nor sell. If...
015 – How Google Works And Why Some Authors Rank Better than Others With SEO Expert Tony Tovar
Why do some authors rank better than others on Google? How does Google even work? I interviewed Tony Tovar, a search engine optimization (SEO) expert. He's the CEO of Inbound Mastery and the person I contact when I have questions about how Google works. Why is...
5 New Year’s Resolutions Authors Should Make in 2014
It's January again, which means time for New Year's resolutions. It's easy for resolutions to become bigger-than-life, difficult to keep, and discouraging. While the big dreams are necessary, it's often the little steps that get us there...or keep us away. So for our...
14 Publishing Predictions for 2014
We have asked the experts and here is what they think 2014 will hold for authors and publishers.
2013 Publishing Predictions Review
A year ago, we had three posts of predictions for 2013. Here we score those predictions to see how we did.
013 – Publishing Predictions for 2014
Every year, Author Media polls a panel of industry experts and collects a list of publishing predictions. We are going to share those predictions with you along with our commentary.
011 – Seven Things Santa Can Teach You About Book Marketing
Who Knew? Santa is a Brilliant Marketer? Yes, he sure is. Check out the secrets of Ol’ Kringle’s legendary success as a cultural icon and how you can apply the same principles to your career. This episode is based on the this blog post from Author Media.
010 – 12 Novel Marketing Ideas for Christmas
Want to Sell More Books This Christmas Than Ever Before? The Christmas season is a sales juggernaut, if you know the ways to jump on that train. We give you 12 ideas that will cost you little to nothing, but could fill up your stocking in a really jolly way. Outline...
82 More Tweetable Quotes for Authors
Earlier this year, we made a list of 101 tweetable quotes for authors. It was a hit. So we've done it again. We've gathered a list of quotes for authors to tweet when they have Twitter block, need a dose of inspiration, or just because they find these quotes...
30 Christian Literary Agents to Follow on Twitter
We’ve compiled a list of the top Christian literary agents on Twitter. It’s time to get connected.
009 – An Introduction to Twitter for Novelists
If you’re not using Twitter, it might be because you don’t understand it, or you might not know the secrets to using it correctly. Join us as we talk about what to do, what not to do, and how Twitter can help you sell more books, as well as sell yourself. Helpful...
10 Holiday Season Blog Prompts
'Tis the season to be busy. There are parties to attend, presents to buy and/or make, meals to cook, traditions to celebrate, family to visit, and a million and one other things to do that come with the holiday season. But despite being busy, you don't want to let...
How to Market Your Book on Pinterest
Pinterest gives you the opportunity of a large following that will quickly and easily. Learn how to use Pinterest to boost your platform.
008 – Where to Start Marketing Your First Novel
You’re finished! You’ve typed, The End and you’re thrilled. (So are we. Congrats.) But now comes the marketing. So where exactly do you start? (Whether you have a contract or not.) We tell you exactly the places to begin, and trust us, it’s nearly painless. Show...
The Ultimate Cheat Sheet to Social Media Image Sizes
A few months ago, we shared an infographic called The Pinterest Cheat Sheet to Image Sizes. It was very well-received and widely shared. A few weeks ago, I came across a similar infographic that is basically the Pinterest Cheat Sheet on steroids. Thanks...
The Secret to Getting People to Love You
Thomas: Today, we're talking about the powerful secret to getting people to love you. Being liked and loved can open all kinds of doors. What’s the secret to making more friends and influence more people? Jim: That's the million-dollar question. Dale Carnegie's How to...
006 – Author Business Cards
Are business cards still around? Yes, and you need one. We explain why it’s critical you have one, what should go on it (and what most assuredly shouldn’t) and where you can get them done inexpensively but still look like a pro. Links Mentioned in this Episode:...
Announcing the Novel Marketing Podcast
Are you a novelist? Do you want to sell more of your books? If yes, we think you’ll love this brand new Podcast. It’s a Podcast on marketing designed specifically for novelists. For novelists who love marketing and even more so for novelists who would love the need...
005 – You Are Watched by Editors and Agents – How to Make Them Like What They See
Find out how to make a good impression with editors and agents and learn how to connect at writers conferences.
Advice for NaNoWriMo from Author Media Fans
In just two days, writers from across the globe will embark on an epic journey. The goal? To write a 50,000 word novel in 30 days. Currently, there are 143,356 writers signed up for National Novel Writing Month at NaNoWriMo.org. If you are not one of them, you should...
The Little Known Secret to Writing a Bestselling Nonfiction Book
How do you make it onto a bestsellers list? In this post I discuss the key elements to writing a bestseller, including a little known secret that can have a significant effect on book sales.
003 – Autopilot Marketing for NaNoWriMo
In this show we talk about how to put your marketing on autopilot so you can focus on finishing your book. What? You want to put your marketing on autopilot for an entire month? Why? So you can write? Well, I suppose if that’s the reason we’ll give you six ways you...
Do authors still need a website?
Discover the advantages and disadvantages of having a website as an unpublished author. Find out whether you, as an author, need a website.
001 – Marketing 101: What is Marketing?
Want to know what marketing really is? If you’re a marketing wiz, no need to listen, but if you’re not, this is the perfect place to start. We explain exactly what marketing is and why it's critical you understand it, whether you’re pre-published, or 30 novels into...
Is Your Blog Pinterest Worthy?
Most bloggers know that Facebook and Twitter are important for getting traffic to your posts. But did you know that the number of blog visitors finding their way from Pinterest is growing? As of September 3rd, Pinterest was the fourth largest social network, with over...
000 – Introduction to the Novel Marketing Podcast
Want to know what the Novel Marketing podcast is about? Here’s the Reader’s Digest version of who we are and what we hope the podcast will give you in the days, months, years, and millenniums to come. (We’re not sure about the millennium part.)
Does Your Website Pass the Radio Test?
When you say your website on the radio can listeners find it? Can they spell it? The radio test is not just important for the radio. Anytime someone talks about your website you want to make sure the listener goes to the right site. Here are 7 tests to see if your website passes the radio test.
Announcing MyBookTable 1.2 – Now With Book Reviews & GoodReads Integration
This new version of MyBookTable comes with book reviews, GoodReads integration, more shortcode options, breadcrumbs, drag and drop book sorting and more!
How to Add GoodReads Book Reviews to MyBookTable
Did you know that MyBookTable now comes with GoodReads integration? You can now show a books GoodRead’s reviews right on your book page. Show off the reviews you already have on GoodReads while leveraging your website traffic to get even more book reviews. Win Win!
How to Create a Facebook Page in 3 Easy Steps
Pages, or Fan Pages as some people call them, are one of the best ways to promote your book or cause on Facebook. They are much more flexible than groups and won’t dilute your profile with people you don’t know.
Here is how to create a page of your own.
Standard Pages for A Non-Fiction Website
Last week we talked about standard pages for a fiction website. Today, we’re talking to the non-fiction authors. While the pages on your site will mostly be the same, your strategy will be slightly different. 1. Blog/Home While the blog does not have to be on...
Standard Pages for A Fiction Website
Are you a fiction writer building your own site? If so, this post is for you. Through our experience in working with dozens of fiction authors, these are the pages that we’ve found every fiction website needs. 1. Home This is your landing page, the first page your...
How to Take Portraits for an Author Website
This is an article we’ve written for our authors’ photographers. If you are an author about to have a photoshoot for a website, you’ll want to share this resource with your photographer before the shoot. You’ve been hired by an author to take pictures for their new...
How to Get Your Avatar to Show Up Everywhere
Have you ever noticed how some people’s photo’s appear next to their comments and others do not? We’ll teach you how to make that happen.
4 Signs of A Bad Plugin
Plugins. They're great. They're useful. They save you from having to pay a developer to spend hours coding your site to contain all the functionality you need or want. But plugins come with a dark side: they can interfere with other parts of your site. Sometimes they...
How to Add a Plugin to Your WordPress Site
One of the great things about Wordpress.org is its flexibility. Unlike other platforms, such as Blogger & Wordpress.com, Wordpress.org allows you the ability to add functionality to your site in the form of plugins. What is a plugin, exactly? The technical...
R.I.P. Google Reader: An Obituary
Yesterday, Google Reader breathed its last breath. Many of us at Author Media used Google Reader for years in order to keep up with all of our favorite blogs. We know many of you did so as well. With that knowledge, we felt it was only fitting to honor Google Reader...
Announcing MyBookTable – a WordPress Bookstore Plugin for Author Websites
We are excited to announce MyBookTable, our first WordPress built for the general public. In the past, to get access to Author Media technology and expertise you had to buy an author website from us. No more.
Now you can download the MyBookTable plugin for free.
It’s Time to Switch Away From Google Reader
Are you reading this in Google Reader? If so, this should be the last post of ours that you read in Google Reader. It’s time to make the switch. Readers, have you made the switch? In case you’ve forgotten, Google Reader shuts down on July 1. That’s in just a few days....
Your Book is Your Business
If you are a writer, you need to start thinking about your book like it’s your business.
How a Car Can Unlock Your Author Website
Websites explained in a way that makes sense for the automotive aficionado.
How to Put Social Media on Autopilot – So You Can Finish Your Book
We recommend that you engage your readers to maximize the effect of your social media presence. But sometimes you just need to focus on your book to hit a looming deadline. So what to do? The answer is putting your social media on auto pilot. This is better than going...
How to Use Google Plus to Easily Record A Video Blog
When someone talks about the advantages of video blogging for your author platform does your heart start to race with that how-am-I-going-to-find-time-to-learn-another-new-thing feeling? First you’d have to figure out what technology you need, then you’d have to buy...
How To Do a Reverse Image Search
Find out if people are stealing your images, words, or identity with a simple reverse image search. We’ll show you how.
How to Do an A/B Split Test With MailChimp
Want to know what your readers like? That’s why the A/B Split Test was created. We’ll teach you how to create one using MailChimp.
How to Write An Author Newsletter
Newsletters are some of the greatest marketing tools an author has. Think about it. Someone has given you their explicit permission to contact them directly through their e-mail. That's huge, and not a privilege that you want to lose. So how do you write newsletter...
How to Create A Custom Widget in WordPress
So, you want to make a custom widget for your sidebar or footer, but don't know HTML? Never fear! There's a pretty nifty trick you can use to create a custom widget in Wordpress. (A "widget" is simply a section of content on your site, most often in the sidebar or...
How to Add “Click to Tweet” to Your Blog Posts
Ever wonder how authors add “Click to tweet” in their blog posts? We’ll show you how to use Click to Tweet and drive traffic to your blog.
Do You Want Free Books?
We’ll show you how to become a book blogger and get free books.
101 Tweetable Quotes For Authors
Need a little pick me up? A dash of encouragement to share with your writer friends on Twitter? We’ve got you covered. Big time.
Our Viral Blog Post Formula
We’re sharing our secret blog post formula with the rest of the world. Good blog posts should happen more often. We’re helping that happen.
The Pinterest Cheat Sheet to Image Sizes
Need a little extra help when it comes to Pinterest? We’ve found the Pinterest Cheat Sheet to image sizes. You are welcome.
How We Grew Our Traffic By 323% in 15 Months
Do you want to grow your traffic? We’ll show you how we grew our traffic by 323% in just 15 months.
Why Giving Your Book Away Actually Leads to Sales
Learn the book marketing strategy that brought one author’s book into the hands of national talk show hosts…and landed him in their book club.
If You Write Two Different Kinds of Books, Do You Need Two Different Websites?
Liz Curtis Higgs answers the question – “If you write two different kinds of books…do you need two different websites?” The answer may surprise you.
How to Keep Your WordPress Site Secure From Hackers
Every day, an army of evil computers are trying to hack into WordPress sites. Have you fallen victim? Here’s how to protect yourself.
How to Set Up a Professional Twitter Profile
With more connections being made on Twitter, you want your profile to put your best foot forward. Here’s how to set up a Twitter profile that’s polished.
Webinar: The Busy Author’s Guide to Popularity and Profit on Pinterest
In Portland, if something isn't quite right the magic solution is to put a bird on it. Beyonce blasts that if you liked it, you should have put a ring on it. We say, if you want someone to like it, put a pin on it. That's why we're hosting a webinar on how to use...
6+ Reasons Why Authors Should Avoid GoDaddy
There was a time when I had almost 40 domains with GoDaddy. I started using them almost ten years ago, back when GoDaddy was a new website with dungeon low prices.
Now I don’t own a single domain with GoDaddy. Here are six reasons why you should move away from GoDaddy too.
100 Things for Authors To Tweet About
Ever feel like you are stuck in a tweeting rut? We’ve compiled 100 things for authors to tweet about…without sounding like an infomercial.
Thanks to the MyBookTable Kickstarter Backers!
The following people backed the MyBookTable Kickstarter Project.
How to Use Twitter to Supercharge Your Book Launch
Book signings just got easier. Use Twitter to supercharge the event and bring your readers to you. We’ll tell you how.
5 Ways to Fool Agents & Editors Into Thinking Your Platform is Bigger Than It Is
It’s not hard to trick agents and editors into thinking your platform is bigger than it really is. We’ll tell you how.
50+ Things To Blog About When You Have Writer’s Block
Writer’s block hits at the worst time. Here are some things to blog about to get your creative juices flowing again.
My Experience with Author Media: Nan Rinella
Ever wonder what our clients have to say about Author Media? Nan Rinella spills about her experience with Author Media and getting a new website.
Update on the MyBookTable WordPress Bookstore Kickstarter
Were you thinking about backing the MyBookTable plugin for WordPress? We have some very important news about the Kickstarter project.
How Authors Can Survive The Death of Google Reader
Caught off guard by Google Reader’s death sentence? Here are ways you can survive as an author.
Announcing the MyBookTable Kickstarter – a WordPress Bookstore Plugin
We’re creating a WordPress Plugin to help authors sell more books and make affiliate money through sites likes Amazon and Barnes & Noble. We need your help.
What Facebook’s New Feed Will Mean For Authors
Just when you thought had finally gotten used to Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg decided to change things up on you. We explain how you can make the jump.
Why You Need A Hashtag For Your Next Book
Twitter isn’t going anywhere.
The sad thing is, most authors are ignoring it. They can’t afford to.
Here’s why you should use a hashtag for your next book.
Why Authors Need To Think Local Like George Bailey
In the age of the internet, it’s easy to want to compete globally. Just don’t forget the power of local.
10 Important Questions You Should Ask A Website Company Before Buying A New Website
Buying a new website can be tricky. We’ll tell you what questions you need to ask before handing over your money to a website company.
10 Ways Proven to Draw Readers to Your Novel’s Website
Most author websites go ignored because the novelists don’t know the following ten tricks…
How to Upload a File to Your WordPress Site
In our last post we talked about creating a pdf. Now, it's time to upload the file to Wordpress. We're going to show you how to do this in Wordpress 3.5. If you haven't updated yet, we recommend doing so. Note: in your website, this is going to look like a hyperlink....
How to Create a PDF
Let’s say you want to add an article to your Wordpress site. You want it to print “just right”, so simply pasting the content into a new page or post won’t work. What’s the best solution? Create a PDF file and upload it to your site. Don’t know how to do that? Here is a simple guide.
6 Christian Literary Agent Blogs to Follow
Want to find out what’s going on in the world of Christian publishing? Read what the agents are talking about.
19 Ways to Boost Traffic to Your Blog [Video]
Ever wonder what the secret to an excellent blog is? Thomas Umstattd shares the 12 secrets of excellent blogs in this video.
3 Simple Ways To Engage On Your Author Facebook Page
Feeling stuck on Facebook? Here are 3 simple ways to engage on your author Facebook page.
9 Tips for Writing Effective Web Copy
What are the nine tips for writing effective web copy we give our clients? Now you can find out.
Book Marketing Predictions for 2013
Promoting books has changed a lot over the last few years and 2013 will be no exception. Here is what I predict will happen in book marketing in 2013. This post is part of a series. See: 15 Publishing Industry Predictions for 2013 and 2013 Reading Trends for...
Reading Trends for 2013
Here are over a dozen book predictions for 2013 covering Audiobooks, eBooks and Reading Trends.
15 Publishing Industry Predictions for 2013
We’ve polled literary agents, publishers and authors asking them to peer into the future and predict where the publishing industry is headed. Here is what they have to say about the publishing industry in 2013.
The Top 10 Posts of 2012
It's been quite a year for Author Media. We've passed over 6,000 fans on Facebook, over 5,000 followers on Twitter, and given hundreds of tips to authors to help them save time, promote their platform, and focus on their writing. All that--AND we managed to survive...
10 Books For Writers You’ll Want For Christmas
Wondering what books to get the author in your life this Christmas? Here’s a list of books for writers that will make shopping easy.
5 Writing Blogs To Start Following Today
Wondering which writing blogs are worth following? We name five.
4 Ways Writers Sabotage Themselves On Facebook
I see a lot of writers doing more damage than good to their platform with a few common mistakes innocently made. Learn how avoid making these mistakes yourself
From Our Founder: Why We Turn Down Some Websites
Our goal is to always provide our best work to our clients. This means that we have to believe in the mission of their website.
Why Author Email Addresses Make a Difference
Do you know what makes me cringe?
Getting an email from a professional that isn’t professional. It doesn’t take much to get a professional email address.
Website Critique – Tiffany Cole
Today, we’re critiquing a reader website. She’s a writer, editor, and entrepreneur. Here’s what you can learn from her website.
3 Ways to Grow Your Author Newsletter
Is your newsletter dull and lifeless? Does it need a shot of energy to keep it going? The answer to all your problems maybe in this article.
How To Buy Your Author Domain Name
Don’t feel overwhelmed by the idea of buying an author domain name. We’ve made it simple.
When Should I Launch My Author Website?
Authors often ask me, “How do I know if my website is ready to launch?” This is a great question because many authors use the wrong approach.
How To Create A Writing Schedule That Works For You
Do you want to write? You need a writing schedule. We’ll help you create one in this post.
The 6 Magic Words That Always Get Clicks
Discover which six magic words will get clicks for your blog. Just don’t use them all at the same time. That would be messy.
4 Lessons Authors Can Learn from Obama’s Fake Twitter Followers
Many politicians and celebrities have been called out for having fake followers. Here’s what authors need to know about this trend.
How to Schedule Your WordPress Posts
Ever wonder how the pro bloggers somehow manage to never miss a day of blogging? They schedule their posts. We’re going to show you how.
4 Free Photo Editing Tools You’ll Love
Want to save some money by taking your own pictures? Whip them into website-worthy shape with one of these 4 free photo editing tools.
What to Do When Your Book Isn’t Selling
Stumped by slumping book sales? Rob Eagar shares what to do when your book isn’t selling.
What Every Author Needs To Know About Alt Text
Meet the forgotten element of SEO: alt text. You can’t afford to ignore it any longer.
3 Key Elements Every Author Website Needs
Do you know what your author website needs? Now you do.
5 Ways Evernote Keeps Writers Writing
Evernote will make your life organized. Ever had a brilliant idea for a story and then forgotten about it? That’s a thing of the past.
How to Increase Your Productivity by Working Less
We work hard to be productive at work. But what if productivity was found not in mixing business and pleasure but keeping them far apart?
How to Create a Twitter List in 4 Easy Steps
Do you know how to create a Twitter list? Now you do.
The WordPress Hotkey Cheat Sheet Every Author Needs
Tired of trying to figure out how to edit things on Wordpress? Get ready to print off this cheat sheet of hotkeys.
What Every Author Needs to Know About Search Engine Optimization
Your web development company can build a good SEO foundation, but your Google rank (or lack thereof) is up to you.
3 Tools To Help You Find The Best Time To Tweet
Are you paralyzed by not knowing when the best time to send your tweet is? We have three tools that will help you tweet away happily.
How To Pick The Right Stock Photo Every Time
Do you struggle with finding the right photo for you website? We’re going to take the guess work out of the process. Keep reading.
Quit Wasting Time Now
Work? Who wants to do that when the glittering world of social media stands ready and waiting? Quit wasting time and WRITE.
How To Keep Your Inbox At Zero
When Monday morning rolls around and you have 130 emails waiting for you, having an inbox at zero seems like a dream. Make it a reality.
Do You Want Friends or Fans on Facebook?
Is it okay to say no to readers who want to friend me? The bigger question is what’s your Facebook strategy. Here’s what I tell clients.
Analytics Are Key To Your Facebook Sucesss
Everyone talks about Google Analytics but ignoring your Facebook analytics could wreck your career before it starts.
Are You a Purple Cow?
What do purple cows have to do with writing? Everything. Discover how to stand out in the writing world.
Why There Are No Perfect Author Websites
There’s no such thing as the perfect website. That includes ours. There’s always room for improvement. Always.
Nothing Says Amateur Like An Ugly Author Picture
Your author portrait is one of the most important investments you’ll make. Nothing says amateur like an ugly author picture.
10 Ways To Get More Facebook Fans This Week
One month ago we had fewer than 200 Facebook fans. Now we have over 2000. Here are the 10 things we did to create this explosive growth.
Woo Your Readers!
Are you ignoring the most importation relationship you have as an author? It’s time to woo your readers.
13 Ways To Stay Creative This Weekend
We list 13 ways to stay creative this weekend. Add your ideas to the list!
Set Up Your Author Pinterest Profile In 10 Easy Steps
Pinterest is the hottest new network. We explain how authors can get on, maximize their time, and use it as a powerful marketing tool.
3 Ways Authors Can Use Pinterest Guilt Free
That’s right. You have permission to get on Pinterest. Every author should be on Pinterest and you are no exception. Here’s why.
How To Build A Community On Your Blog
Everyone talks about building a community on your blog. But it’s not something you can do overnight. Be prepared to roll up your sleeves.
Join Us On GoodReads
Goodreads is for readers. Join us on our challenge to read more good books this year.
How To Disable Facebook Chat
Disable Facebook Chat and regain your writing time. We’ll show you how to do it.
44 Essential Twitter Hashtags Every Author Should Know
It’s not enough to be on Twitter. As an author, you need to be using Twitter hashtags to help use your time wisely. Learn how.
30 Tips To Improve Your Writing
Are you bored with your blog? It might be time to improve your writing. Here are 30 tips to up your online game.
The Truth About SOPA And PIPA
SOPA is not your friend. As a blogger, it could land you in jail. Concerned? Keep reading.
Author Website Critique – Kathy Pooler
We asked for one brave volunteer to be our first public author website audit. Find out what Kathy Pooler is doing wrong…and right!
Know Your Audience – The Secret To Author John Locke’s Success
Know your audience. It sounds so simple. We’ll show you how best-selling author John Locke used this principle and became a success.
2012 Publishing Predictions
2012 is supposed to be a year of change. What’s in store for authors and the publishing industry? Find out what our experts said.
Author Tech Tips is Now Author Media Blog
Author Tech Tips is now the Author Media Blog. In 2009, Thomas Umstattd Jr. started Author Tech Tips as a way to share writing strategies with authors who were timid about technology. He knew that most authors weren't technology experts. They were professionals...
3 Tips For Surviving Christmas As An Author
Overwhelmed with the idea of balancing your blog and your family this Christmas? Here are three tips to surviving Christmas as an author.
Christmas Gift Guide For Authors
There are only a few more days until Christmas. Have you gotten the author in your life a present? If the answer is no, you've got to get moving. Santa isn't going to be covering for you this year. He quit. It's up to you. Luckily for you, we compiled a Christmas Gift...
Top 10 Author Blogs of 2011
It's that time of the year. Time to round up some of our favorite author blogs of 2011. Some of these author blogs will be familiar, while others are just some of my personal favorites. Each author has spent a considerable amount of time connecting with their fans...
How to Sell Your Book Offline
With online marketing dominating book and e-book sales, it’s too easy to forget the best way to sell a book.
In this article you will learn how to stand in front of any group of people and get them interested in your book.
Unleashing Your Muse – How to Be Creative in a Social Media World
Focusing on writing is one of the biggest challenges many authors face. In this article you will learn how to overcome interruptions and write more than you ever had before.
7 Secrets for Amazing Author Websites
Most author websites fail to sell enough books to reimburse the author for the cost of building the website.
The reason is because most authors don’t know the following seven secrets.
Why print designers fail at web design
Designing for the web is a different skill than designing for print. Print designers who learn these three simple differences will see a dramatic increase in the effectiveness of their designs.
Otherwise their designs will fall flat. Feel free to share this article with the print designers in your life.
How to Never Forget a Password Again
The most stressful thing for my clients is keeping track of passwords.
Here is how to avoid that stress.
How to Create or Edit Posts in WordPress
Ever wondered how you can create and edit posts in Wordpress and just wanted someone to show you some pictures? Well, wonder no more! Picture Guide Login to your site at www.sitename.extension/wp-login (for example, www.samfagan.com/wp-login) On the left, click Posts:...
How to Make Money With Your Author Blog
Some authors make more money on their websites than they do in royalties.
Here is how they do it.
How to Sync Files Across Multiple Computers Automatically
Here is a way to keep the most recent version of your book (and other documents) synced across multiple computers for free.
Increase Speaking Gigs With BookTour.com
Imagine a website that would email thousands of people in your town to let them know where you are speaking next. Now imagine that this is free. Your imagination has become a reality. Read on for details.
7 Ways to Integrate Facebook into your Online Platform
So your publisher says you need to grow your platform. You need to be able to communicate with and listen to more people in order to promote your book.
Here are 7 great ways that Facebook can help you do that.
How Blogging Got Me Published
In this post author Renae Brumbaugh tells how her blog took her from unpublished stay at home mom to the published author of multiple books.
How to Track Your Author Website’s Effectiveness
Just because you have a website doesn’t mean that it’s effective. Fortunately, there are easy ways to track if your website is helping to build your author platform.
The Top 5 Author Website Mistakes
Here are five things not to do with your author website.
This is a must read if you don’t yet have a website because these tips will save you a lot of heartache in the future.
If you already have a website read with caution.
3 Baby Steps to Get Your Book Published (for those who don’t know where to start)
The number one question we get is “I want to write a book but I don’t know where to start.”
Here is your answer.
How to Share Something on Facebook In One Click
Did you know that sharing a website on Facebook is as easy as one click? All you need to know is where to click. This post will teach you just that.
Marketing Mistakes Top Level Authors Make
Best selling authors are not perfect. Here are some of their blunders and how to avoid them. Avoid these mistakes and you may become the next top selling author.
Top 5 Blog Title Mistakes Authors Make
For someone to bother to read your blog it must be the most interesting thing on the internet – for that person at that time. If anything else is more interesting they will go there.
Your only chance to catch people’s attention is with your titles. No pressure.
7 Differences Between Published & Unpublished Authors
Are you developing the habits and mindsets of a published author? Learn the best practices of published authors so you can emulate them.
Why Your Blog Should Be Your Book’s First Draft
So you’re working on a book and not sure where to find time to start a blog? No problem. Use your blog as your rough draft.
This post will give you 7 reasons why you should post your book to your blog as you write it.
7 Articles To Help You Become a Twitter Ninja
If you want to level-up your Twitter skills here are seven of the best articles on the web to help you out.
After reading these guides, you will become a true Twitter Ninja, Young Grasshopper.
The Top 5 Domain Name Traps
When you pick a domain name for your website make sure to avoid these traps. Once you commit to a domain name changing is a lot of hassle.
Learn what to avoid now before it is to late.
How to Track Your Message Online
Whether you’re an author, speaker, or publisher, your goal is to sell more books and spread your message. But, how do you know if your message is really spreading? How do you track the success of your book marketing and platform-growth efforts?
A Ninja Writing Guide – For Authors Who Want to Blog
Little arm hairs raise on end. Bumps form on my skin, desperately struggling to retain its warmth. It’s freezing in this room as I type away on the computer. I want to be in bed! If only that guy standing next to the refrigerator hadn’t asked me to write a ninja writing guide. This one’s for you, Thomas…
Author Interview: Mary DeMuth
Mary DeMuth is an author, writing coach, and sought after speaker who speaks at writers conferences all over the country.
In this interview she shares how she uses social media (Blogging, Twitter & Facebook) to sell books and connect with readers.
9 Tips for Getting the Most Out of LinkedIn
Ok so a friend sent you a LinkedIn invite and you signed up. Now what? This article will show you how to turn LinkedIn into a powerful tool.
If you don’t know what LinkedIn is or why you should use it read 4 Reasons Why Every Author Should Use LinkedIn. This article assumes you are already on LinkedIn but are totally lost.
9 Premium Stock Photo Sites
Sometimes the free photo sites just don’t have what you need. Or you may want an image that is not used a thousand other places on the web. That’s where premium photo sites come in. Starting at $1 an image they have better selection and quality than site like sxc.hu.
Don’t Play Hide & Seek with Your Readers
While surfing the web recently, I visited several author websites and noticed an alarming problem. Whenever these individuals offered a free resource to download from their website – the documents were devoid of any contact information! Don’t be guilty of the same blunder.
8 URL Traps Authors Fall Into
So you bought a fancy new domain and now it is time to print business cards and fliers. Many authors print their URL in such a way that no one remembers it. Don’t be one of those authors. The following post has the 8 taps most authors fall into and how to avoid those traps.
How the Creative Commons Can Help Your Book Spread Like Crazy
In this post you will learn what the Creative Commons is and why emerging authors are using it to promote their books.
What is #PubTip?
You’ve seen #PubTip on Twitter. Now find out what it is and how to use it.
Nobody Cares What You’re Doing Right Now (and why they still might follow you)
No one cares that you are sitting @Startucks. They don’t care that you’re at the airport either. But they may still follow you. Why? In this post you will the answer and learn how to rethink Twitter in such a way to make your follower count soar.
4 Reasons Why Authors Should Avoid MySpace
You’re an author. Your time is sacred. Finding to time to write is hard enough as it it before your agent told you to get something called a “platform.”What you want is maximum platform bang per minute. Here are 4 reasons why MySpace is not for you.
4 Reasons Why Every Author Should Use LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a social network for professionals. If you want to be a professional writer you want to be on LinkedIn. Here are 4 ways LinkedIn is better than Facebook.
How To Setup Google Analytics on WordPress (Video)
Google analytics answers the question of who visits your site, when they visit and even why they visit. This post has a video that explains google analytics in clear easy language. And it has a pause button if you want to follow along.
How to Avoid Lame Author Portraits
The biggest contributor to the look of your author website is the quality of the photos. Unfortunately, most author websites have terrible photos. Here are some tips of what to do and what not to do when looking for a photographer.
One Easy Answer to 90% of Your Tech Questions
This tip is so easy and effective it will blow your mind. After you recover you will hit yourself for not thinking of it yourself.
Why Internet Explorer is Bad for Authors
As an author your time is precious. Internet Explorer is slow and dangerous. Fortunately, it is not the only free option. Here are five reasons why Firefox is better than that little blue “e” you’ve been clicking on all these years.
5 Keys for Magnetic Blog Titles
Most blog titles are about as magnetic as a skunk. Learn how to write titles for your blog posts that will pull in more readers.
5 Ways to Keep Your Book From Rotting in a Paper Prison
In 1977 my great grandfather wrote a book. A few years later he passed away. No one in my family knows who inherited the copyright. If a publisher wanted to reprint the book or make it available online they need permission to avoid breaking the law. But who should they ask? The copyright does not expire until 2052 so the problem will only intensify as his descendants multiply.
7 Tools for Finding the Ideal Domain Name
Have you ever needed a new domain name (something.com) but not known how to find the right one? Here are some free tools that can help you.
How This Little Orange Icon Can Save You Time
We’ve all seen this orange icon. But did you know that in 5 years it will be more important than email? It reworks the internet saving people massive amounts of time. You are an author and your time is at a premium. We guarantee reading this post will be a good time investment or your money back 🙂
Why Copyrights Can Hurt Authors
When our founding fathers created the copyright they did it to encourage the spread of ideas. Copyrights, like patents, only lasted 14 years. Hollywood changed all that and every 5 years or so they extend copy right by 5 years. The result? Millions of books have been locked in paper prisons rotting into oblivion.
7 Ways to Send More Traffic to Your Website During a Radio Interview
Imagine you are doing a radio interview and you hear the closing music start to play. The host asks you to give your website one more time. What do you say?
5 Things Visitors Don’t Want From Your Author Blog
Don’t waste your time doing things on your author blog that turn your readers away. Learn what readers don’t want from your website.
What is a Podcast?
Podcasts are a great way to promote your book. But what are they and how to they work? This post has simple videos that explain podcasting for authors.
8 Quick Search Engine Optimization Tips
There is an art to getting listed high in Google. Here are 8 things that can help improve your “Google points.”