3 Tools Every Independent Author Needs To Use
2019 marks the eighth year of professional writing for me. I self published my first book, Blurred Vision, and started 7th Sign Publishing nearly two years later. Although I have contemplated going the traditional publishing route a few times before, I enjoy the creative control that I have with publishing through my own company. Don’t get me wrong. I still have to go through the multiple rough drafts, edits, book cover design mock ups and release date push backs just like the next author. Fortunately, the team of people I work with keep me honest and challenge me to push to the next level.
Whether you’re traditionally or independently published, marketing is the golden ticket to a successful book. Social media has become such a juggernaut that traditional publishing methods nearly have no use to the author these days. So, this blog is for every author to know, but specifically the independent author. Writing the book is the easy part. The biggest hurdle is convincing the public why they need your book. Today, I want to share 3 apps that can help make your marketing journey more efficient and effective. How do I know? I’ve tested them myself.
Loomly is a great site that helps you schedule posts ahead of time. Of course, there are other apps like Hootsuite that get the job done. Loomly has a more modern feel though and allows you to see how the posts will look in real time. The one drawback is you cannot post to your profile page (which is virtually the case for any post scheduling service tied to Facebook now). However, you can schedule posts to your Facebook business page. With Instagram, you have to manually accept the push notification and just past the data, then post! It’s that simple and it even gives you suggestions for daily hashtags to include, copy length and the best times of day to post. I’ve only used the free version, but I’m strongly considering using the paid version to unlock more of the benefits.
Canva is another free app (with a paid version alternative) that helps you create sleek and attractive social media posts that are tailored to each platform. Plus, you can also create fliers, posters and even business cards. I honestly haven’t scratched much beneath the surface of using this app for social media posts, but the free version is honestly more than you should need to get started.
Fiverr is an app that I’ve been using for quite some time. Think of an outsourced version of Canva, where you can get some impressive, yet affordable banners, fliers and graphics made for a quick turnaround. If the designer is late, you get a full refund. Fiverr offers a wealth of other services too, including website design and even voice over services. Fiverr is typically my go to for a quick, professional event flier at a low cost.
So, there you have it! I promise you, these apps will help simplify your marketing efforts for your book. Don’t forget to tune in to Week 2 of Channel Eleven on Friday, February 8th at 11:00 am CST. Check out Week 1 in the meantime below and read the book that started it all, HERE.