You mean there are joys?
Okay, kidding aside. Truth is I’m new to this aspect of publishing. When I received my contract, it stated that I would be responsible for using commercially reasonable efforts to assist in the promotion of sales of the Work. So, I knew going in that I would be involved in promoting the book, which was fine with me. I had no idea, however, what that would entail.
I’m not complaining, mind you (well, maybe a little). It isn’t that I mind being involved. I love being involved. My problem was that I was unprepared for what would be asked of me. I’m not in my 20’s, 30’s, or even 40’s, and social networking has been a slow process. I had a Myspace account years back, but only had a few friends. Later, I switched to Facebook, and did quite well finding and communicating with friends. It wasn’t until the end of December, that my publicist asked me to create a blog/website. My heart hitched. I was in so much trouble!
Thank God, I have a computer savvy husband and son within earshot. Once my panic was under control, I learned how to create categories and post comments. And as of yesterday, I learned how to incorporate photos. I’m very proud of myself.
A week ago, I created a twitter account. I don’t have a smart phone, so my posts are limited to when I’m on the computer. I have to say, however, that being followed by the likes of Joyce Meyer, Angela Hunt, Tricia Goyer, Jody Hedlund, and Susan Sleeman is pretty amazing. Do I expect a lot of personal contact from these people? No. Still, they can see my posts, and perhaps they might even read my book. One can always dream, right?
Tomorrow I will send out my first blog pitches, hoping to have my book reviewed by popular bloggers. Researching took me hour upon hour—crafting the pitch, hour upon hour. Waiting for responses will be nerve wracking and exciting at the same time. Can you feel the joy?