Secrets to Planning a Rockin' Twitter Party

I know consider myself a Twitter Party Addict. I have managed three of my own and hopped on the bandwagon of over twenty of them.

It's a great way to spread the word about your book and to play as an 'appetizer' to a larger launch party.
 
THE LAUNCH

Who says you can only have one book launch party? Well I say, have many. This is the main event for your book. You've been building up to this for months. Doing it on multiple platforms will afford your book a lot of visibility. But even though Twitter is always hopping, you need to promo it a bit.

THE BUILDUP

I usually start my book launches that include a Twitter Party, Blog Party and Facebook Party with a mini-blog tour which includes all the authors who will be part of my Facebook Virtual Launch Party. We do this to build up the buzz.

About 6 weeks before the party all of the authors involved in the big Facebook Party event tweet about the Twitter Party coming (using a hashtag for the book title & a link to our Party Map Page).

The mini blog party kicks off 1 week before the Twitter Party. It's used to build awareness of all of the book release events coming. The Twitter Appetizer Party (which runs the Friday before the Facebook Party) is used to drive even more traffic to the book sales pages for participating authors.

The Giveaway announcement. We run a giveaway announcement on twitter (a daily tweet from each participating author) with link to Party Map Page which has the schedule of the mini-blog tour, the Twitter Party, Facebook Party, links to all books, and rafflecopter.


THE TWITTER APPETIZER PARTY

We call it an appetizer because it's the night before the big Facebook Party event (which usually last for 8 hours on a Saturday and is run by a number of authors not limited to the launch guest of honor).

These usually last 3 hours. Three hours is enough time to run 3 trivia games, intro the book, shout out for prize winners and share links to big party coming the following day on Facebook.


The trick though is to have about 3 other people who you KNOW will be there to help you keep the party going, promo the party, and invite others.

A neat way to make sure you know who's coming is to use the mini-blog tour to build an invite list and later tweet a reminder to participants.

PARTY MUST DO LIST

For a twitter party to work, you need to have the Trivia Questions, links, etc preset (you can use hootsuite or socialoomph to do this in advance). This makes things much easier and allows facilitator to just do promo, invite tweets, and personal interaction with crowd.

Announcing the party should be done 60 to 30 minutes before by the 3 party facilitators. Invites to fans who are on twitter at the time & share a party favor if they show up is a great kickoff. Have a main prize of about $25 gift card that you will give out at end of night.
 
Kick off party with party jargon, a swag giveaway like bookmarks, introduction of participating authors, book, book trailer. Then start the games. Try to stick with games that are themes of the book. In between shout out a reminder about follow-on Facebook party, shout out winners and 'thank you' to participants before running next game. Sticking to 10 questions for each trivia works.
 

Trivia ideas. Movie lines, guess that tune, caption picture contest and many more depending how creative you are.

WOULD YOU GO TO A TWITTER RELEASE PARTY?


by LM Preston, YA & MG Author, http://www.lmpreston.com/

Bookfest! Expos! Trade Shows...And More to Explore

Just a few years ago I had my first book signing at a Book Expo. The African American Book Expo had tons of authors, and vendors selling their products. Since that was my first stop in a full year of book promotions, I added this to my experimental list of things to do.

FINDING THE RIGHT VENUE
I researched the trade shows I would attend by searching other authors that had similar work as I did. However, I did the African American Book Expo in MD simply because it was the first time they’d had one and I could share a table with another author, Maggie Mei Lewis, that I respected. I also signed up for the Capital Bookfest, because it was close to my hometown and I liked some of the other authors that were attending. The Baltimore Book Festival, I’m attending because it’s free to Maryland Writer’s Association members. They were local, I planned to network with other authors there and meet readers that were part of my audience.

SET REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS
The reason I go to these events (Book Expos) is truly not to sell books, it’s for networking. If you go to these events hoping to sell a ton a books – you will be disappointed.

When you are seeking out the promotional opportunities for your writing career (you can also do this when you are even unpublished) set your goals, research the venue and what other’s have gotten out of the endeavor and plan in opportunities that will get you the exposure you desire. I did this by doing a Google alert on authors that were new, and doing things that I wanted to do with my career. Then I fashioned the events that fit within my budget and goals for my own career.

LEAVE ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT
Always reinvent yourself and your promotional goals. Some events I’ve participated in were the wrong venue, didn’t meet my ‘realistic’ expectations or were too costly compared to the benefits. So I revamped my plans for the next year to fit my budget, highlight the things that worked, and I always add something new for discovery of better ways to promote myself and my books.

REMEMBER – CARE AND FEEDING
Be realistic when pursuing promotion of your books. It takes 3 years for any business to confirm growth, so set a 3-year plan/investment in yourself and your promotional goals. Gage your growth each year with a chart and if you see improvement, pat yourself on the back and research ways to further improve.

by LM Preston, www.lmpreston.com

#indiechat 9/4/12 Using social media without direct selling.

laurapauling About 7 minutes to #indiechat How not to spam? What is spam? Are you spamming? -8:54 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DiamondLB RT @laurapauling: About 7 minutes to #indiechat How not to spam? What is spam? Are you spamming? -8:54 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Ava_Jae RT @laurapauling: About 7 minutes to #indiechat How not to spam? What is spam? Are you spamming? -8:54 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DiamondLB So people consider retweets to be spam? #indiechat #writersroad #amwriting #amreading -8:56 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero I'll be switching between reading "The Lottery", writing a blog post, and chatting at #indiechat. Hi, guys! -9:00 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling Hi everyone! Time for #indiechat Right NOW! -9:00 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @chihuahuazero Hi there! #indiechat -9:00 PM Sep 4th, 2012

patricialynne07 #Indiechat time Hello everyone! -9:01 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio Hi everyone! #indiechat -9:01 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 Hello #indiechat just finished a great indie book by @BPuttroff and am so pumped for this chat! Plus we just had Decatur Book Festival here! -9:02 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DougSolter Hello! #indiechat -9:02 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling Hey there! How's the writing going with everyone? Or cover designing? Or formatting? #indiechat -9:02 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling We're chatting about ways to promote on social media without direct selling. #indiechat -9:03 PM Sep 4th, 2012

EArroyo5 Hi everyone! #indiechat -9:03 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @laurapauling currently wedding planning is eating up all my time. #indiechat -9:03 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 RT @laurapauling: We're chatting about ways to promote on social media without direct selling. #indiechat -9:03 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @KatGirl_Studio Is it coming up soon? #indiechat -9:03 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @laurapauling finishing up an added scene in a story I 'thought' was done. How about you? #indiechat -9:04 PM Sep 4th, 2012

patricialynne07 RT @laurapauling: Were chatting about ways to promote on social media without direct selling. #indiechat -9:04 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @laurapauling Just finished up some client cover designs. Still trying to finish this book. #indiechat -9:04 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes RT @laurapauling: We're chatting about ways to promote on social media without direct selling. #indiechat -9:04 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @laurapauling Also have to get up to speed on InDesign CS6 #indiechat -9:04 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 Hello!! #indiechat -9:04 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @Steenaholmes I'm trying to format, rewrite and revise three different works. #indiechat Ack! -9:04 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes RT @susankayequinn: RT @LornaSuzuki: Tired of spamming on Twitter? Need new ideas? #Indiechat 9 pm EST brainstorm abt social media w/out ... -9:04 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @laurapauling ya it's the end of October. #indiechat -9:04 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling Welcome everyone! #indiechat Glad you're here! -9:04 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @KatGirl_Studio That is coming up soon! #indiechat -9:05 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @laurapauling Totally need this topic to help me promote my blog and @BiblioCrunch even though I'm not an author #indiechat -9:05 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling So I'm def. not the expert so I hope everyone will join. Using social media without direct selling! #indiechat -9:05 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @Froze8 Hi there! #indiechat -9:06 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DiamondLB “@laurapauling: Welcome everyone! #indiechat Glad you're here!” <

Steenaholmes @laurapauling ack! I have so many projects I want to get started on and not sure which to do first. #indiechat -9:06 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling Why don't we start off by talking about the difference between spam and direct selling. Is there a difference? #indiechat -9:06 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @Steenaholmes No kidding. Too much to write - too little time! #indiechat -9:06 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @KatGirl_Studio I'll be getting my graphic design software soon, can you upgrade w/o buying the whole program again? #indiechat -9:06 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @laurapauling I post quotes from the book. Links to samples. And use my books as backgrounds on social media. #indiechat -9:06 PM Sep 4th, 2012

EArroyo5 I could use some tips. Running out of steam. #indiechat -9:07 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 I listened to an interview that said just chat on sm and people will get to know you and want u to do well #indiechat -9:07 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @KatGirl_Studio Very effective yet subtle. #indiechat -9:07 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @laurapauling Hi! :) #indiechat -9:07 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero I self-promoted myself over at the unofficial @heatherbrewer forum when running a contest. Of course, nobody cared. #indiechat -9:07 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Stacey_WB Hi! I couldn't get tweetchat to load. #indiechat -9:07 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @Froze8 yes I believe you can. Check out their site. #indiechat -9:07 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DougSolter Interacting with your followers is a step in the right direction. Make it a two-way relationship. #indiechat -9:07 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling I don't consider spamming the same thing as an author offering links to Amazon. #indiechat When it's balanced! -9:08 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DiamondLB RT @LauraHoward78: I listened to an interview that said just chat on sm and people will get to know you and want u to do well #indiechat -9:08 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @laurapauling I tend as a reader to stop paying attention to users who post the same content. Change up your links and quotes #indiechat -9:08 PM Sep 4th, 2012

srjohannes @laurapauling hey Ill try to hang in here tonight #indiechat -9:08 PM Sep 4th, 2012

srjohannes @laurapauling this job is killing me #indiechat -9:08 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @srjohannes Hi Shelle! #indiechat -9:08 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @laurapauling I also keep a Pinterest board for each project. #indiechat -9:08 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @LauraHoward78 smart advice! People are tired of the same old 'sales' pitch. #indiechat -9:08 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @DougSolter Amen! By the way I'm still interested in your book, the cover caught me. #indiechat -9:08 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling I love seeing authors tweet reviews. Sometimes I look if the title is interesting. #indiechat -9:08 PM Sep 4th, 2012

patricialynne07 @Froze8 I've seen a few people say they ignore tweets hawking books. #indiechat -9:09 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling RT @DougSolter: Interacting with your followers is a step in the right direction. Make it a two-way relationship. #indiechat -9:09 PM Sep 4th, 2012

EArroyo5 I read somewhere that tweeting every hour keeps u connected because the stream goes so fast. #indiechat -9:09 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Stacey_WB @Froze8 I'm the same and unfollow people who use the same tweets over and over again. #indiechat -9:09 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @chihuahuazero I did the same on the forum, it's a shame because I think the minions would like my contests btw have 2 right now) #indiechat -9:09 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DiamondLB What about RTing a fav author? How many times is too many? #indiechat -9:09 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero I have unfollowed and blocked one author who did nothing but self-promote her backlist. Constantly. #indiechat -9:09 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff Hello #indiechat. This is my first time discovering you. :) -9:09 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @KatGirl_Studio Thanks :) #indiechat OH! I need to show you something *runs to take picture* -9:09 PM Sep 4th, 2012

HeatherSunseri Hello! Happy Tuesday! RT @laurapauling: Welcome everyone! #indiechat Glad you're here! -9:10 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling I like the 10% rule. Though I often break it if retweeting other blog posts counts. #indiechat -9:10 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @laurapauling I tweet links to new reviews. and did a lot of posts during the tour. #indiechat -9:10 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @chihuahuazero I have unfollowed authors for the same thing. Not blocked, but unfollowed. #indiechat -9:10 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @Froze8 At least you're more active there. #indiechat -9:10 PM Sep 4th, 2012

IndieAuthorNews Indie Author INTERVIEW w/ @JenningsWright (Author:Solomon's Throne) on #writing #indiechat #selfpub & more ? http://t.co/qtFzs4dO ? -9:10 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @KatGirl_Studio I think during a launch or blog tour it's more acceptable. #indiechat -9:10 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DiamondLB RT @laurapauling: I love seeing authors tweet reviews. Sometimes I look if the title is interesting. #indiechat -9:10 PM Sep 4th, 2012

StephLIngram RT @laurapauling: I love seeing authors tweet reviews. Sometimes I look if the title is interesting. #indiechat -9:10 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling I mean I like to know when my friends or other authors win awards or receive a great review. #indiechat -9:10 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @BPuttroff However, people were retweeting her promotion, and I was getting sick. What a shame. :( #indiechat -9:10 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BiblioCrunch RT @Froze8: @laurapauling Totally need this topic to help me promote my blog and @BiblioCrunch even though I'm not an author #indiechat -9:10 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DiamondLB RT @EArroyo5: I read somewhere that tweeting every hour keeps u connected because the stream goes so fast. #indiechat -9:11 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 I get fired up talking about #selfpub and want to support those who are personable #indiechat -9:11 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero RT @laurapauling: I like the 10% rule. Though I often break it if retweeting other blog posts counts. #indiechat -9:11 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling Or that @Steenaholmes was mentioned in media bistro for Finding Emma. #indiechat :) -9:11 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 Yay! Guys this is @BPuttroff who is one of my new fond favorite indie authors (along with @srjohannes and @KatGirl_Studio) #indiechat -9:11 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @chihuahuazero Yeah, that will do it. #indiechat -9:11 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @laurapauling I use a buffered auto post system to space my tweets about projects out so it's not overwhelming. #indiechat -9:11 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DougSolter Cool! I still have it for sale. Am I being too direct. :) RT @Froze8 #indiechat -9:11 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling So I see true spam as people who only ever promote their products and never do anything else. Different from direct selling. #indiechat -9:11 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero Problem is, should I tell the author that I unfollowed/blocked, or just ignore her? #indiechat -9:12 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @Stacey_WB I try to read all the tweets on my stream so I notice this often. #indiechat -9:12 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Author_Kat_Jane RT @LauraHoward78: I get fired up talking about #selfpub and want to support those who are personable #indiechat -9:12 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling I see true spam as people who only ever promote their products and never do anything else. Different from direct selling. #indiechat -9:12 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @chihuahuazero Probably best to just ignore. Unless you think she'd be receptive to knowing about it. #indiechat -9:12 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling How many of you have ever clicked through or purchased of a direct sell on Twitter? #indiechat -9:12 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @laurapauling Mostly I mention projects I'm working on now instead of books that are already out. it seems to work for me. #indiechat -9:12 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @patricialynne07 I don't mind if an author tweets about their book but I don't want to read the same tweet 20 times. #indiechat -9:12 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @BPuttroff IIRC, she had a lot of legit followers. #indiechat -9:12 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @Froze8 Ooo what? #indiechat -9:13 PM Sep 4th, 2012

patricialynne07 @chihuahuazero I wouldn't worry about telling the author. #indiechat -9:13 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @DiamondLB I think that depends on what tweet you are RTing #indiechat -9:13 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DiamondLB @KatGirl_Studio what auto post program do you use? #indiechat -9:13 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @laurapauling I have but mainly for instructional books. #indiechat -9:13 PM Sep 4th, 2012

srjohannes @DiamondLB i hate autoposts - I can always tell - make sure it doesnt sound automated #indiechat -9:13 PM Sep 4th, 2012

patricialynne07 @Froze8 Agreed. But I've noticed w/ my books sales aren't affected by my tweets. #indiechat -9:14 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff #indiechat I've mostly stopped using social media for "promo" and use it now to build relationships with people. -9:14 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @laurapauling Considering my $0 budget, never. #indiechat -9:14 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 @laurapauling NEVER #indiechat -9:14 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @chihuahuazero Barely, I have so much going on with the blog, school, and my jobs. I've just never been good at forums #indiechat -9:14 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @DiamondLB IFTTT #indiechat -9:14 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn Sorry I'm late, but I'm here now, indiechatters! Hola! #indiechat -9:14 PM Sep 4th, 2012

patricialynne07 @laurapauling Not many. I can only recall one time a bought a book cuz of a tweet. #indiechat -9:14 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @chihuahuazero What about all the freebies like our own @srjohannes book Untraceable went free today! #indiechat -9:14 PM Sep 4th, 2012

srjohannes General rule: for every time you tweet about yourself, tweet 5 times about someone else and something unrelated to you #indiechat -9:14 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @susankayequinn Hey there! #indiechat -9:14 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @laurapauling having others promote you always helps! Finding yourself talked about in Media Bistro is a plus #indiechat -9:14 PM Sep 4th, 2012

rmsotera RT @laurapauling: I love seeing authors tweet reviews. Sometimes I look if the title is interesting. #indiechat -9:15 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DiamondLB @srjohannes I don't know how to do them lol! #indiechat -9:15 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 @susankayequinn hi Susan! #indiechat -9:15 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff #indiechat I've never bought a book as a result of a tweet. Maybe once or twice I've downloaded a freebie -- IF I like the tweeter. -9:15 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @laurapauling @srjohannes I'll make an exception. ;) #click #indiechat -9:15 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @DougSolter Haha! No not at all! I will need to get in touch with you after and see if you want to get on my blog :) #Indiechat -9:15 PM Sep 4th, 2012

EArroyo5 I find it easier to post about others and not about me. =) #indiechat -9:15 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @BPuttroff This is the only case I get books from Twitter. #indiechat -9:15 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Battista_j @srjohannes I like this rule! #indiechat -9:15 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling Me too! RT @EArroyo5: I find it easier to post about others and not about me. =) #indiechat -9:15 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 @Steenaholmes what is media bistro @laurapauling #indiechat -9:16 PM Sep 4th, 2012

patricialynne07 Me too. RT @EArroyo5: I find it easier to post about others and not about me. =) #indiechat -9:16 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DiamondLB @KatGirl_Studio I don't know what that is lol! Will have to look it up. #indiechat -9:16 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling I think @susankayequinn does a great job between tweeting links and promoting others and being herself. #indiechat -9:16 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DougSolter I use Bufferapp. I try my best to seperate tweets. RT @DiamondLB what auto post program do you use? #indiechat -9:16 PM Sep 4th, 2012

HeatherSunseri I have only purchased a book from a tweet when someone other than the author had promoted it. #indiechat -9:16 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @patricialynne07 @laurapauling I will check out books every so often if I see a tweet #indiechat -9:16 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @laurapauling I can be impulsive with books but I'd much rather click for a giveaway or a cool trailer then buy the book #indiechat -9:16 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff #indiechat I HAVE bought books from Twitter-peeps I've gotten to know and enjoy chatting with. But never just from a promo tweet. -9:16 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 @BPuttroff that's the key--- knowing the tweeter #indiechat -9:17 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn Aw, thanks!@laurapauling: I think @susankayequinn does a great job between tweeting links and promoting others and being herself. #indiechat -9:17 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling I have clicked through when the title interests me. I can't remember if I've purchased though. #indiechat -9:17 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DiamondLB “@EArroyo5: I find it easier to post about others and not about me. =) #indiechat”

chihuahuazero @laurapauling @srjohannes Strange. I entered a contest that's giving away Untraceable. http://t.co/VSEVxTly #indiechat -9:17 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BottomtheBasset RT @chihuahuazero: I have unfollowed and blocked one author who did nothing but self-promote her backlist. Constantly. #indiechat -9:17 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 RT @laurapauling: I think @susankayequinn does a great job between tweeting links and promoting others and being herself. #indiechat -9:17 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @LauraHoward78 I think so. Social media works best when it's actually social, and not advertising. #indiechat -9:17 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @LauraHoward78 @laurapauling GalleyCat I think? Here is the link (not trying to self promote - promise!) http://t.co/5FCofxrJ #indiechat -9:17 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling once I self published, I became much more empathetic to authors trying to get their work out there. #indiechat -9:17 PM Sep 4th, 2012

EArroyo5 I love finding new books on twitter. I do check them out before i purchase. #indiechat -9:17 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @DiamondLB it stands for If This Than That http://t.co/DvnD9nGw #indiechat -9:17 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn This. @BPuttroff I HAVE bought books from Twitter-peeps Ive gotten to know&enjoy chatting with. But never just from a promo tweet #indiechat -9:17 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DougSolter Of course! RT @Froze8 Haha! No not at all! I will need to get in touch with you after and see if you want to get on my blog :) #indiechat -9:17 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @KatGirl_Studio Should be up now. Just wish I had one of Travis ;) #indiechat -9:18 PM Sep 4th, 2012

HeatherSunseri @BPuttroff Yes, I do buy books from Twitter peeps I've built personal relationships with as well. Good point. #indiechat -9:18 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LawsonWrites RT @laurapauling: once I self published, I became much more empathetic to authors trying to get their work out there. #indiechat -9:18 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Loriprima RT @LauraHoward78: I get fired up talking about #selfpub and want to support those who are personable #indiechat -9:18 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling I love reading my books friends and then helping to promote them. #indiechat -9:18 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling I mean my friends' books. #indiechat -9:18 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DiamondLB RT @EArroyo5: I love finding new books on twitter. I do check them out before i purchase. #indiechat -9:18 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @Froze8 up where? #indiechat -9:19 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DiamondLB @KatGirl_Studio cool! Thanks! #indiechat -9:19 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 @BPuttroff and it's so much easier for introverts with social media #indiechat -9:19 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling So what are some thing we shouldn't do. Tweet about our books constantly, direct message people after they follow us. #indiechat what else? -9:19 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn The rule for twitter (that I try to follow) is to provide some net benefit to the twitterverse with your presence #funny#info#etc #indiechat -9:19 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero Did anyone else got found by a spambot just now? #indiechat -9:19 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @LauraHoward78 It is. You can find real people you really connect with. #indiechat -9:19 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @laurapauling most of the books i buy are books mentioned in chats though. #indiechat -9:19 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @chihuahuazero Not here ... not YET anyway. :) #indiechat -9:20 PM Sep 4th, 2012

EArroyo5 @LauraHoward78 I agree #indiechat -9:20 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @KatGirl_Studio I don't think there's anything wrong with that. Sometimes we just have to say, "Hey, I'm an author...etc." #indiechat -9:20 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @laurapauling I'd say Goodreads spamming is the worst. #indiechat -9:20 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @KatGirl_Studio What's Goodreads spamming? #indiechat -9:20 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @chihuahuazero Good point. We set up the tour before we talked about Untraceable going free... #indiechat @srjohannes -9:20 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @laurapauling I would say don't do anything with the primary intent of making a sale. #indiechat -9:21 PM Sep 4th, 2012

EArroyo5 I RT usually when I want to keep the info in my sent stream for future reference. #indiechat -9:21 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 RT @laurapauling: Or that @Steenaholmes was mentioned in media bistro for Finding Emma. #indiechat :) -9:21 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @laurapauling Especially when they send me a ton of messages that their book is free or on sale. #indiechat -9:21 PM Sep 4th, 2012

bytefulcom @laurapauling I haven't, but I know Twitter can be used to foster creator+audience relationships that can lead to sales. #indiechat -9:21 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn Don'ts? Don't get in twitter-fights. #indiechat -9:21 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio Goodreads is not an Op-in spam newsletter. #indiechat -9:21 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @Froze8 @srjohannes Fortunately, it's a paperback copy being given away, I think. #indiechat -9:21 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling RT @susankayequinn: Don'ts? Don't get in twitter-fights. #indiechat -9:21 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @laurapauling how about don't post same links/post all the time #indiechat -9:21 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 @Steenaholmes now that is COOL- congrats! #indiechat -9:21 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling Def. ! RT @Steenaholmes: @laurapauling how about don't post same links/post all the time #indiechat -9:21 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @laurapauling what do you mean? #indiechat -9:22 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @KatGirl_Studio Let me try again, sometimes twitter doesn't like me #indiechat -9:22 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Stacey_WB RT @KatGirl_Studio: Goodreads is not an Op-in spam newsletter. #indiechat -9:22 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @bytefulcom Yes, the relationships can lead to sales, but only if they're real. Focus on the relationships. #indiechat -9:22 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @LauraHoward78 Thanks Laura - it was pretty cool and perfect timing #indiechat -9:22 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling RT @BPuttroff: @bytefulcom Yes, the relationships can lead to sales, but only if they're real. Focus on the relationships. #indiechat -9:22 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DougSolter I hate people who DM me when I first follow them. Usually it's go to my website or check out my book. Ugh. #indiechat -9:22 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn Yes! The memory is like a trap for seeing the same thg @Steenaholmes @laurapauling dont post same links/post all the time #indiechat -9:22 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @laurapauling I hate getting an auto DM after I follow someone, I unfollow #indiechat I do love when authors post freebies for my kindle tho -9:22 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling I like creative taglines. #indiechat with links. -9:23 PM Sep 4th, 2012

EArroyo5 What about if it's time sensitive info, like a contest. How many tweets are too many? #indiechat -9:23 PM Sep 4th, 2012

patricialynne07 @Steenaholmes Nice thing about the tweet scheduler I use is it forces me to make unique tweets cuz it won't tweet duplicates. #indiechat -9:23 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @DougSolter I find auto DMs annoying, too. Almost enough to auto-UNfollow sometimes. #indiechat -9:23 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero RT @BPuttroff: @DougSolter I find auto DMs annoying, too. Almost enough to auto-UNfollow sometimes. #indiechat -9:23 PM Sep 4th, 2012

overdunne Hi All! Better late than never... #indiechat -9:23 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling What are some ways we can promote with the direct sell? #indiechat What have you seen or done with yourself? -9:23 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero RT @DougSolter: I hate people who DM me when I first follow them. Usually it's go to my website or check out my book. Ugh. #indiechat -9:23 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn Some Do's for book tweets: Do use a tag line, i.e. "He was in love with the only girl in school who couldn't read minds." #indiechat -9:23 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling Jeez. I mean promote withOUT the direct sell. #indiechat -9:23 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DougSolter When you follow someone it's like a tryout. You want them to play nice. #indiechat -9:23 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn RT @laurapauling: I like creative taglines. #indiechat with links. #indiechat -9:23 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 Behold #indiechat if you have art skills like @KatGirl_Studio I will put it on my wall. <3 -9:24="-9:24" 2012="2012" 4th="4th" http:="http:" p="p" pm="pm" sep="sep" t.co="t.co" wymewca="wymewca">

srjohannes @Steenaholmes good for you - I saw that! :) #indiechat -9:24 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero I never click links in DMs. They never have anything that I want. #indiechat -9:24 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 @Steenaholmes number 4 before that- what was the noticeable difference after?? #indiechat -9:24 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn Nice! @patricialynne07: @Steenaholmes tweet scheduler forces me to make unique tweets cuz it wont tweet duplicates. #indiechat -9:24 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @patricialynne07 I don't use tweet scheduler period. I feel like I'm spamming when I do. But that's just me. #indiechat -9:24 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @BPuttroff @bytefulcom And quality work! :) #indiechat -9:24 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling The direct sell is easy and I'm sure that's why some authors abuse it. #indiechat -9:24 PM Sep 4th, 2012

EArroyo5 @laurapauling Is using quotes from your book considered direct sell? #indiechat -9:24 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AudryT Twitter is like a party: you can't expect people to pay attention if all you do is talk about yourself. #indiechat -9:24 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @EArroyo5 I think so. #indiechat -9:24 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr That girls got skills! RT @Froze8: Behold #indiechat if ... @KatGirl_Studio I will put it on my wall. <3 -9:24="-9:24" 2012="2012" 4th="4th" http:="http:" jbtjuku9="jbtjuku9" p="p" pm="pm" sep="sep" t.co="t.co">

bytefulcom @laurapauling If you want to foster a relationship w/ your audience, Never send anything that even *appears* to be a mass DM. #indiechat -9:24 PM Sep 4th, 2012

SPNHeather #IndieChat Just shamless self promo here I offer virtual book tours esp. for My Indie Authors *have references also* http://t.co/S3N0HiBx -9:25 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @srjohannes thanks darlin! Let's just say August has been a fab month for this indie book #indiechat -9:25 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling What can we do on social media without offering a direct link to Amazon or a retailer? #indiechat -9:25 PM Sep 4th, 2012

patricialynne07 @Steenaholmes I use it to send tweets about my blog in the morning when others are awake but I'm not. =D #indiechat -9:25 PM Sep 4th, 2012

overdunne RT @AudryT: Twitter is like a party: you cant expect people to pay attention if all you do is talk about yourself. #indiechat -9:25 PM Sep 4th, 2012

srjohannes @chihuahuazero :) #indiechat -9:25 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling RT @SPNHeather: #IndieChat I offer virtual book tours esp. for My Indie Authors *have references also* http://t.co/pWyBV9Mg -9:25 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero Q: How many times do you tweet your own blog links per day? #indiechat -9:25 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @laurapauling I try to mention things important in chats like that I have contests or my Author Birthday Bash #indiechat -9:25 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr @laurapauling Involving people in your work by getting to know them, and helping them in turn? #indiechat -9:25 PM Sep 4th, 2012

srjohannes so annoying RT @chihuahuazero: I have unfollowed blocked one author who did nothing but self-promote her backlist. Constantly. #indiechat -9:26 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @laurapauling link to a book page on your own website where they can get more info. #indiechat -9:26 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling RT @chihuahuazero: Q: How many times do you tweet your own blog links per day? #indiechat -9:26 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn Put your book link in your Twitter Profile - it's like your sig file for Twitter #indiechat -9:26 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling Great! RT @thebookdesignr: @laurapauling Involving people in your work by getting to know them, and helping them in turn? #indiechat -9:26 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @LauraHoward78 I'm not sure what you mean? I've been on the list for 4 weeks now I believe - or do you mean in sales? #indiechat -9:26 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Loriprima RT @AudryT: Twitter is like a party: you can't expect people to pay attention if all you do is talk about yourself. #indiechat -9:26 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @Froze8 shiny =^.^= #indiechat -9:26 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Stacey_WB @laurapauling I think linking to blog or newsletter sign up is ok. "if you want to be informed about upcoming stuff"... #indiechat -9:26 PM Sep 4th, 2012

SPNHeather @srjohannes @chihuahuazero I have had to do that to several authors :( #indiechat -9:26 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff #indiechat I don't know. My sales increased quite a bit when I stopped marketing on social media and focused on writing and relationships -9:26 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn Usually once or twice morn/eve @chihuahuazero: Q: How many times do you tweet your own blog links per day? #indiechat -9:26 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio RT @Froze8: Behold #indiechat if you have art skills like @KatGirl_Studio I will put it on my wall. <3 -9:26="-9:26" 2012="2012" 4th="4th" http:="http:" p="p" pm="pm" sep="sep" t.co="t.co" wymewca="wymewca">

thebookdesignr @laurapauling @LauraHoward78 the constant book tweeting every 5 minutes is something that drives me batty! #indiechat -9:26 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling I like authors getting together for bloghops or fests, big contests #indiechat -9:26 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @patricialynne07 Smart! That makes sense then! #indiechat -9:27 PM Sep 4th, 2012

ali_cross Hi guys! I'm late, but here! #indiechat -9:27 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @EArroyo5 @laurapauling I don't want to see the same quote 20 times, change it up :) #indiechat -9:27 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Loriprima @AudryT yes, perfectly said! #indiechat -9:27 PM Sep 4th, 2012

ABookVacation RT @Stacey_WB: RT @KatGirl_Studio: Goodreads is not an Op-in spam newsletter. #indiechat -9:27 PM Sep 4th, 2012

patricialynne07 @chihuahuazero I usually tweet about my blog 3 times a day. 8am, Noon and evening. #indiechat -9:27 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 RT @AudryT: Twitter is like a party: you can't expect people to pay attention if all you do is talk about yourself. #indiechat -9:27 PM Sep 4th, 2012

EArroyo5 RT @susankayequinn: Put your book link in your Twitter Profile - its like your sig file for Twitter #indiechat -9:27 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LawsonWrites Book promo is about the fifth reason I have a twitter. 1. talking to friends 2. current events 3. Stalking celebs. 4. RT info...#indiechat -9:27 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn THIS! @BPuttroff My sales increased quite a bit when I stopped marketing on social media and focused on writing and relationships #indiechat -9:27 PM Sep 4th, 2012

ali_cross Yep! RT @AudryT: Twitter is like a party: you cant expect people to pay attention if all you do is talk about yourself. #indiechat -9:27 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling I rarely tweet my own links but I probably should more. That's just me. #indiechat -9:27 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chel_c_cam RT @SPNHeather: #IndieChat Just shamless self promo here I offer virtual book tours esp. for My Indie Authors *have references also* htt ... -9:28 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 @Steenaholmes I mean did it make a big diff on sales? #indiechat -9:28 PM Sep 4th, 2012

overdunne RT @susankayequinn: Put your book link in your Twitter Profile - its like your sig file for Twitter #indiechat -9:28 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DougSolter The only auto DM's I like are the ones that just thank me for following them. That's shows class. #indiechat -9:28 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn @ali_cross Hey Ali! #indiechat -9:28 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @laurapauling Offer links to contests, blog posts, ect. that then link to amazon :) #indiechat -9:28 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr YES @BPuttroff My sales increased quite a bit when I stopped marketing on social media and focused on writing and relationships #indiechat -9:28 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling I think spotlight books in the genre you write in might help. #indiechat -9:28 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @DougSolter I don't mind those, but still find it annoying when my inbox fills after I go in and reciprocate follows. #indiechat -9:29 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling How about @AngelaAckerman and the Random Acts of Kindness. Get others involved in the launch. Make it about them. #indiechat Not you. -9:29 PM Sep 4th, 2012

patricialynne07 @laurapauling That reminds me. I'm doing a blog hop soon & need more victims. =D http://t.co/MrfIFTM7 #indiechat -9:29 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @KatGirl_Studio Love it! It looks awesome on my wall in the float frame <3 -9:29="-9:29" 2012="2012" 4th="4th" indiechat="indiechat" p="p" pm="pm" sep="sep">

srjohannes RT @SPNHeather: #IndieChat Just shamless self promo here I offer virtual book tours esp. for My Indie Authors *have references also* htt ... -9:29 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn I personally like it when my author friends tweet a good tag line for their book -something easy to RT, that people will like #indiechat -9:29 PM Sep 4th, 2012

srjohannes @Steenaholmes i love that for you! #indiechat -9:30 PM Sep 4th, 2012

SPNHeather @laurapauling That is a good thing! @AngelaAckerman #indiechat -9:30 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero In my experience, promoting on forums is difficult. I once got scolded for going too far. #indiechat -9:30 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @LauraHoward78 huge difference! I made 6 figures in August. I was also part of amazon promo which helped #indiechat -9:30 PM Sep 4th, 2012

overdunne If you're tweeting about a blog post, give a hint as to what it's about. Much more likely to click on something that interests me #indiechat -9:30 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff #indiechat These days I mostly participate in some awesome Twitter writing communities, and try to help out bloggers. -9:30 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @BPuttroff Relationships are so important but if the writing isn't good it won't matter in the end :) #indiechat -9:30 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @Froze8 very cool idea =^.^= #indiechat -9:30 PM Sep 4th, 2012

srjohannes @chihuahuazero i usually RT other posts to cross promote their blog #indiechat -9:30 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr @susankayequinn I agree- when they tweet a great one liner from their book that's something I really enjoy, and again good to RT #indiechat -9:30 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero Younger writers, like me, tend to be more wary about self-promotion. #fromexperience #indiechat -9:30 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @srjohannes for??? I'll take all the love I can ;) #indiechat -9:30 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn Congrats! @Steenaholmes @LauraHoward78 huge difference! I made 6 figures in August. I was also part of amazon promo which helped #indiechat -9:30 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @Froze8 I think that's true. The best "marketing" is developing your writing and trying to provide value to the readers you have. #indiechat -9:30 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling Ah yes, we can't ignore that. No matter how much social media you use or links you tweet. It always comes down to the writing. #indiechat -9:30 PM Sep 4th, 2012

srjohannes @chihuahuazero so as far as me tweeting my stuff directly - maybe 2 or 3 times a day and that is not every day #indiechat -9:31 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @srjohannes I do that all the time, with my weekly round-ups. #indiechat -9:31 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @Steenaholmes what was? #indiechat -9:31 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @laurapauling I love hosting authors and contests if anyone here wants to be on my blog http://t.co/tqYNasrT #indiechat -9:31 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Sibarium Hi all #Indiechat… -9:31 PM Sep 4th, 2012

srjohannes RT @BPuttroff: #indiechat I don't know. My sales increased quite a bit when I stopped marketing on social media and focused on writing a ... -9:31 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @thebookdesignr that's what I do. I need to design/pick some more. #indiechat -9:31 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @Froze8 You'll be the first people I come to when I get to publishing something. One day. @laurapauling #indiechat -9:31 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn @overdunne So agree - I wish people would make better headlines for their posts, so I know what it is #indiechat -9:31 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BethanyLopez2 RT @SPNHeather: #IndieChat Just shamless self promo here I offer virtual book tours esp. for My Indie Authors *have references also* htt ... -9:32 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @Sibarium Hey, welcome to the lottery! ;) #indiechat -9:32 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @KatGirl_Studio being on the bestseller list in bistro media. also made a few other bestseller lists. it all helps ;) #indiechat -9:32 PM Sep 4th, 2012

skmayh Genius plan! Made me want to be a better person and buy her book.@laurapauling @AngelaAckerman and the Random Acts of Kindness. #indiechat -9:32 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr #indiechat I just sort of invited myself and jumped in to chat cos I saw another tweeter do it... is it okay I'm here in this chat? -9:32 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @susankayequinn @overdunne Me three. Headline writing is a science. #indiechat -9:32 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @thebookdesignr Of course. Everyone is welcome! #indiechat -9:32 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Battista_j @Froze8 @laurapauling I'd love to be on your blog! Great looking! #indiechat -9:32 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @thebookdesignr Welcome! :) #indiechat -9:32 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling A great headline and a good post behind it. #indiechat -9:32 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @susankayequinn @overdunne agreed! "better headlines" are necessary! Otherwise why click thru? #indiechat -9:33 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @Steenaholmes what's bistro media? #indiechat -9:33 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn @thebookdesignr Absolutely! #indiechat -9:33 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr #indiechat - for the record first twitter chat EVER. *does the twitter chat dance* #notwitterchatvirginanymore -9:33 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling How many of you blog for readers instead of writers or how many don't care? #indiechat -9:33 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling And participating in Twitter chats are a great way to get to know new people. #indiechat -9:33 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @KatGirl_Studio Thanks :) Hoping I'll see more of your work for the next book (and you know I'm just looking for Travis ;) ) #indiechat -9:33 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff RT @laurapauling: And participating in Twitter chats are a great way to get to know new people. #indiechat -9:33 PM Sep 4th, 2012

overdunne @susankayequinn I agree... #indiechat -9:33 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @BPuttroff Amen! #indiechat -9:34 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @laurapauling I can only blog for writers. I'm not sure how I can for readers, since I don't have any books published. #indiechat -9:34 PM Sep 4th, 2012

patricialynne07 I love twitter chats for that. RT @laurapauling: And participating in Twitter chats are a great way to get to know new people. #indiechat -9:34 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LawsonWrites @laurapauling totally don't care. I blog about whatever I feel like that day. I know what gets readers but i don't pander #indiechat -9:34 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn LOL! @thebookdesignr: for the record first twitter chat EVER. *does the twitter chat dance* #notwitterchatvirginanymore #indiechat -9:34 PM Sep 4th, 2012

overdunne @laurapauling I blog rarely...but when I do, I never really think about it. Maybe I should... #indiechat -9:34 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr I blog for writers because it helps authors for DIY book design. For writing POV- still writers. Sharing experience is important. #indiechat -9:34 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @Froze8 There will totally be Travis art for the next 3 books. Each of them will be getting their own trailer for book 2 as well. #indiechat -9:34 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @laurapauling I think chats like this and #yalitchat is one reason why I have this many followers. #indiechat -9:34 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling I see some authors talking about street teams. Have any of you considered that? #indiechat -9:35 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @chihuahuazero Awww thank you :) and if you are ever looking to hire some help @BiblioCrunch may be a place to start #indiechat -9:35 PM Sep 4th, 2012

bytefulcom @Froze8 @bputtroff They're mutually reinforcing! To profit, you must not only create value but also deliver it. Network. #indiechat -9:35 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @KatGirl_Studio Here's the link to media bistro. They do awesome posts and keep up to date with publishing http://t.co/5FCofxrJ #indiechat -9:35 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chel_c_cam RT @laurapauling: And participating in Twitter chats are a great way to get to know new people. #indiechat -9:35 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr @laurapauling @BPuttroff @susankayquinn Thanks for the welcome :) #indiechat -9:35 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @LauraHoward78 sure do :) #indiechat -9:35 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @thebookdesignr Of course! Glad to have you! #indiechat -9:35 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Battista_j @laurapauling I blog about whatever interests me. I try to keep it about writing topics, but sometimes that ain't happening. #indiechat -9:35 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Sibarium @laurapauling I don't really know who I'm blogging for. That's part of my blogging problem. #indiechat -9:35 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Stacey_WB @LawsonWrites I'm the same. It's a good way to get your personality across to readers. #indiechat -9:35 PM Sep 4th, 2012

ali_cross @overdunne Once you identify your message it will help you come up with awesome blog topics that appeal to your readers #indiechat -9:35 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling Commenting on bigger blogs with helpful and creative comments (no links) might be one way. #indiechat -9:36 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @Steenaholmes Oh GalleyCat, my books have been featured in their coming attractions section. #indiechat -9:36 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @Battista_j Ah thank you! Can you send me an e-mail? I'm really trying to get some quality stuff up :) #indiechat -9:36 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @JJMassa1 @laurahoward78 did what work? Being on the list? got on there due to sales. Have I seen sales since being on list? Yes #indiechat -9:36 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr Exactly. It's all marketing. Gotta identify your goals. RT @ali_cross: @overdunne Once you identify your message... #indiechat -9:36 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn @laurapauling What are street teams? #indiechat -9:36 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @KatGirl_Studio that's awesome!! #indiechat -9:36 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Sibarium @patricialynne07 @laurapauling I've met some awesome people in the last #indiechat that I participated in. I never know when they are. -9:36 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 @Steenaholmes would you guest post on my blog??? That's crazy- six figs!!! #indiechat -9:36 PM Sep 4th, 2012

ali_cross Yep RT @laurapauling: Commenting on bigger blogs with helpful and creative comments (no links) might be one way. #indiechat -9:36 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @laurapauling I am more about the readers but try to include content for all. #indiechat -9:37 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn RT @Steenaholmes @KatGirl_Studio media bistro. They do awesome posts and keep up to date with publishing http://t.co/56lcDp5h #indiechat -9:37 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero I'm still trying to figure out the angle I can take as an unpublished writer. Any advice? #indiechat -9:37 PM Sep 4th, 2012

overdunne @ali_cross My message is a bit foggy right now...:) In tune with the rest of my currently chaotic life! :) #indiechat -9:37 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @chihuahuazero By sharing things other readers will like? :) #indiechat -9:37 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Sibarium @laurapauling Street teams? #indiechat -9:37 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @LauraHoward78 it is very crazy, but it's been a crazy month. Agent offers, publisher offers … crazy. #indiechat -9:37 PM Sep 4th, 2012

srjohannes @Steenaholmes can you attribute or track it to something you did specifically? that is the hard part #indiechat -9:37 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @susankayequinn A group of people/fans who "hit the streets" for you. Grassroots marketing. #indiechat -9:37 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @Froze8 And how would you define that? #indiechat -9:37 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn Just be yourself. @chihuahuazero: Im still trying to figure out the angle I can take as an unpublished writer. Any advice? #indiechat -9:38 PM Sep 4th, 2012

ali_cross @chihuahuazero Don't blog for writers blog for potential future readers Identify you're topic/theme & write from the heart #indiechat -9:38 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero I want to avoid giving advice that I don't have the authority to give as much as possible. #indiechat -9:38 PM Sep 4th, 2012

overdunne @Steenaholmes crazy, but GOOD? #indiechat -9:38 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @KatGirl_Studio Very excited. Hoping to get some prints of him to add up on the wall <3 -9:38="-9:38" 2012="2012" 4th="4th" book="book" boy="boy" for="for" indiechat="indiechat" obsession="obsession" p="p" pm="pm" sep="sep" sorry="sorry" the="the">

Steenaholmes @srjohannes I can. But it all begins with a good book and smart marketing. Getting reviews and have others spread the word. #indiechat -9:38 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling Just starting off I think it's best to be yourself, reach out and make some friends. #indiechat -9:38 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @Steenaholmes yes and mine was the picture featured one each time. http://t.co/QuF7XFp6 #indiechat -9:39 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @overdunne very good ;) Being indie is always good, isn't it! #indiechat -9:39 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero One problem is that all my blog posts cover a wide range of topics. Writing craft, writing life, reviews... #indiechat -9:39 PM Sep 4th, 2012

ali_cross RT @laurapauling: Just starting off I think its best to be yourself, reach out and make some friends. #indiechat -9:39 PM Sep 4th, 2012

srjohannes RT @Froze8: @chihuahuazero Awww thank you :) and if you are ever looking to hire some help @BiblioCrunch may be a place to start #indiechat -9:39 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @thebookdesignr sure did. I hear it's the new slush pile. #indiechat -9:39 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @Froze8 no worries =^.^= I wish I could get them done faster for you. #indiechat -9:39 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling And once you publish it's important to still be yourself, reach out and be friendly. #indiechat -9:39 PM Sep 4th, 2012

patricialynne07 RT @laurapauling: Just starting off I think its best to be yourself, reach out and make some friends. #indiechat -9:39 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes RT @ali_cross: RT @laurapauling: Just starting off I think its best to be yourself, reach out and make some friends. #indiechat -9:40 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @chihuahuazero Honestly, I think the writing is the biggest thing. Unless you have a focus for a blog, it won't help much #indiechat -9:40 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr @chihuahuazero Ever considered splitting the blogs up? Make two or three different blogs to hit your niche every time? #indiechat -9:40 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chel_c_cam RT @laurapauling: And once you publish it's important to still be yourself, reach out and be friendly. #indiechat -9:40 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero I want to be "the teenage voice" of writing blogs, along with someone unafraid to challenge other bloggers. Is that enough? #indiechat -9:40 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Sibarium @Steenaholmes @srjohannes Very true! #indiechat -9:40 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 RT @ali_cross: RT @laurapauling: Just starting off I think its best to be yourself, reach out and make some friends. #indiechat -9:40 PM Sep 4th, 2012

overdunne @chihuahuazero I'm there with you. There is so much info out there, need a few months to feel comfy with self pubbed existance #indiechat -9:40 PM Sep 4th, 2012

EArroyo5 @laurapauling I like that. #indiechat -9:40 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff How many writers of fiction here have blogs you consider to be successful? #indiechat -9:40 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @laurapauling you don't see that as self promo? #indiechat I love it too but always worry if I do it. -9:41 PM Sep 4th, 2012

overdunne @Steenaholmes It is! So much choice and opportunity in indie! #indiechat -9:41 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @chihuahuazero For me I do reviews, giveaways, Author Birthday Bash, and release day posts. Try 2 share things I like as a reader #indiechat -9:41 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @thebookdesignr I'm going for the hub style site/ blog and posting certain content of certain days. #indiechat -9:41 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @thebookdesignr I considered that, but I don't think running multiple blogs would be more helpful. #indiechat -9:41 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr @BPuttroff What do you consider success? #indiechat -9:41 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 @laurapauling like evangelists.. @susankayequinn #indiechat -9:41 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn @BPuttroff How do you measure success? #indiechat -9:41 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @KatGirl_Studio gorgeous cover! I remember seeing it before! #indiechat -9:42 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero However, I'm considering writing a writer's guide on how to use Google Docs/Drive. Anyone interested? #indiechat -9:42 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @susankayequinn However you want to measure it -- you, personally, consider it successful. #indiechat -9:42 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr @KatGirl_Studio Yeah that's a really good idea. Categorizing every day, that'd be effective. #indiechat -9:42 PM Sep 4th, 2012

overdunne RT @laurapauling: Just starting off I think its best to be yourself, reach out and make some friends.<--- YES! #indiechat -9:42 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @KatGirl_Studio I don't mind waiting, I know you are busy, just don't forget me for your next tour :) #indiechat -9:42 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn Be careful about spreading yourself too thin. @chihuahuazero: @thebookdesignr running multiple blogs would be more helpful. #indiechat -9:42 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @Steenaholmes thanks, I created it myself =^.^= #indiechat -9:43 PM Sep 4th, 2012

ali_cross @BPuttroff I consider my blog a success; I get a lot of views from readers who comment on FB instead of the blog tho, lol #indiechat -9:43 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Sibarium @susankayequinn @BPuttroff great question #indiechat -9:43 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn @BPuttroff Personally, I consider my blog successful. It meets my needs, and gives me a platform to reach other writers/readers. #indiechat -9:43 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling Here's an example of one author's approach to creating a street team. #indiechat http://t.co/nFCWcrrr -9:43 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DougSolter Yes. Make friends and write a lot of stuff! RT @chihuahuazero #indiechat -9:43 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @Froze8 Oh I wont. We had to push everything back till after the wedding. #indiechat -9:43 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AngelaAckerman @skmayh @laurapauling My ears were burning, lol. So glad I got here in time to catch a bit of #indiechat What's the topic? -9:43 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @keithisaWIP I've been using Docs for 2-3 years. #indiechat -9:43 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @BPuttroff @srjohannes has a good blog but she also is a marketing expert. #indiechat -9:43 PM Sep 4th, 2012

overdunne Biggest thing about blogging right now- I want 2 B positive. There's enough snark out there. I want to encourage writers like me #indiechat -9:44 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @laurapauling street team? #indiechat -9:44 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero RT @laurapauling: Here's an example of one author's approach to creating a street team. #indiechat http://t.co/nFCWcrrr -9:44 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr @AngelaAckerman Topic: Do you consider your blog successful? In your case: YES #indiechat -9:44 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @AngelaAckerman We're talking about using social media without direct selling. #indiechat -9:44 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero How can I blog to readers as an unpublished author? #indiechat -9:44 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @KatGirl_Studio Creating a group of fans who you reward and who help you promote - grassroots. #indiechat -9:44 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @susankayequinn @bputtroff true. My success when I blog a few times a month isn't the same as one who does more regularly. #indiechat -9:44 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AngelaAckerman @laurapauling Ah yes. So important! #indiechat -9:45 PM Sep 4th, 2012

bytefulcom @Steenaholmes Yes! Congrats :) Does anyone ever think you're an overnight success? Just tell them it takes years of practice :) #indiechat -9:45 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DougSolter Thanks! RT @laurapauling Here's an example of one author's approach to creating a street team. #indiechat http://t.co/nqVu84yS #indiechat -9:45 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr @chihuahuazero You write about interesting things that they can then take something away for themselves. #indiechat -9:45 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @KatGirl_Studio That's so understandable :) #indiechat -9:45 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @laurapauling Oh that's a good idea. #indiechat -9:45 PM Sep 4th, 2012

patricialynne07 @chihuahuazero Talk about what you're working on. Post teasers. Or what inspires you. #indiechat -9:45 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn @chihuahuazero Just blog about YOU, your interests etc. Thru the magic of the interwebs, you will gather like minded souls. #indiechat -9:45 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @laurapauling I like what's she's doing #indiechat -9:46 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @Steenaholmes I'm sure that's true. :) #indiechat -9:46 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @susankayequinn However, I felt like nobody really found my "Writer's Updates" useful. :/ But I'm trying to change that. #indiechat -9:46 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling What creative ways to use social media to promote books have you all seen or used? #indiechat -9:46 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AngelaAckerman Did you see what Donna Gephart did on her blog? Smart, kind & endears her 2 gatekeepers of her audience. http://t.co/Sdc6EXeG #indiechat -9:46 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero Am I hijacking the chat? #indiechat -9:46 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @bytefulcom LOL-I don't consider myself to be successful-Just a writer like everyone else with a story that touches hearts. #indiechat -9:47 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @Steenaholmes I think it's much easier to start street teams when you have a large fanbase . But one could start small. #indiechat -9:47 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @Steenaholmes Yes! It's not a secret formula but writing that touches people's hearts #indiechat -9:48 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn @chihuahuazero Amendment: blog about things that interest you (and would, therefore, interest other people).Not re:your daily w/c #indiechat -9:48 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @susankayequinn @chihuahuazero I try to blog about me and books I enjoy, still working on marketing my blog and getting it out #indiechat -9:48 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @laurapauling you have to start somewhere, right? #indiechat The question is when and where? -9:48 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AngelaAckerman There's also what Darcy Pattison is doing this week: Random Acts of Publicity http://t.co/lDttAQHn #indiechat -9:48 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling Yes! RT @AngelaAckerman: There's also what Darcy Pattison is doing this week: Random Acts of Publicity http://t.co/VGXzG1rp #indiechat -9:48 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @laurapauling chat's like this are awesome. I love when author's have chat's just to talk to them #indiechat -9:49 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn @Steenaholmes You should own the success! It helps others to do that too. :) #indiechat -9:49 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff If you're an author, and you consider your blog to be "successful" -- who is the core audience of your blog? #indiechat -9:49 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio I'm gonna be relaunching my blog this winter after the wedding. #indiechat -9:49 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AngelaAckerman I have focused on discoverability by blogging on topics tied to my book's content. This has worked well, I think #indiechat -9:49 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @Froze8 It's awesome when readers/bloggers are interested. :) #indiechat -9:49 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @susankayequinn yes ma'am ;) I'll own it - just need time for it to all sink in! #indiechat -9:49 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @BPuttroff For right now, my blog audience is mainly other writers I've met online from what I can tell. #indiechat They interact the most. -9:49 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AngelaAckerman Because it's of interest to the people who would find my book helpful. #indiechat -9:50 PM Sep 4th, 2012

ali_cross @BPuttroff That's the Holy Grail, isn't it?? :D #indiechat -9:50 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @ali_cross It really is. :D #indiechat -9:50 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @laurapauling @angelaackerman saw this today and loved it! #indiechat great idea! Your Random Acts of Kindness was brilliant too -9:50 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @AngelaAckerman yes, I think with nonfiction on writing it's a bit easier to reach your target audience! You've done a great job! #indiechat -9:50 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @laurapauling That's what I've noticed, too. #indiechat -9:50 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @BPuttroff It really is. I love seeing places like this grow. #indiechat -9:50 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero Maybe I should go back to the "Life of a Writer" angle I started my blog with, but I veered away from. #indiechat -9:50 PM Sep 4th, 2012

skmayh @AngelaAckerman Your book is really a helpful tool for writers. So glad I bought a paper copy. #indiechat -9:51 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn @Steenaholmes LOL! I've always said that success can be harder than failure; there's definitely an adjustment time. #congratsBTW #indiechat -9:51 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AngelaAckerman @laurapauling I agree, it's easier when writers actually ARE a target market. But I have slanted my blog to be educational too #indiechat -9:51 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff I think a blog where the core audience is writers is awesome -- when you're marketing TO writers. But what about fiction? #indiechat -9:51 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @AngelaAckerman That's true. You reach teachers and librarians which will be great for future fiction release. #smart #indiechat -9:51 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 @AngelaAckerman you're an expert at creating a street team ala Random Acts of Kindness!! @laurapauling #indiechat -9:51 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AngelaAckerman @laurapauling so that the gatekeepers 4 my Fiction (teachers, etc) will read the blog & hopefully give me a way into classrooms #indiechat -9:52 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @skmayh @AngelaAckerman same here! It's bookmarked, highlighted and written in all ready! #indiechat -9:52 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DougSolter My blog is geared toward writing and screenwriting. Sometimes movies. Since my book is about F1, I might blog about that too. #indiechat -9:52 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @DianeCapri thanks Diane! Come join #indiechat - we're talking about promo without spamming and other stuff -9:53 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AngelaAckerman @LauraHoward78 @skmayh @Steenaholmes Thx :) It was easy because it was within my brand--who I am. I love 2help & celebrate others #indiechat -9:53 PM Sep 4th, 2012

bytefulcom @Steenaholmes Well 6-figures in one month from book sales is pretty darn good. What *does* success look like to to you, Steena? #indiechat -9:53 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling How many of you use FB effectively? #indiechat -9:53 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @BPuttroff I'm working on building my blog mostly for other readers but then I have @BiblioCrunch's new blog for writers. #indiechat -9:53 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn @BPuttroff Writers are readers. Writers are teachers. Writers are librarians, doctors, parents... #indiechat -9:53 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AngelaAckerman I think that's the real key of using Social media in any way --be genuine. #indiechat. -9:54 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn @DougSolter F1? #indiechat -9:54 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling Yes! RT @AngelaAckerman: I think that's the real key of using Social media in any way --be genuine. #indiechat. -9:54 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LawsonWrites @BPuttroff my blog is just kind of a random collection of my thoughts, pop culture, publishing and pop culture. #indiechat -9:54 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr Definitely RT @AngelaAckerman: I think that's the real key of using Social media in any way --be genuine. #indiechat. -9:54 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AngelaAckerman @skmayh You are so sweet, Sharon! #indiechat <3 -9:54="-9:54" 2012="2012" 4th="4th" p="p" pm="pm" sep="sep">

chihuahuazero I presume that some of my blog audience are teen and/or YA writer-readers. #indiechat -9:54 PM Sep 4th, 2012

EArroyo5 @laurapauling I just started paying attention to my public fb page. #indiechat -9:54 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero RT @susankayequinn: @BPuttroff Writers are readers. Writers are teachers. Writers are librarians, doctors, parents... #indiechat -9:54 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @bytefulcom good question. I want success to look the same when my next book comes out. #indiechat What does success look like? -9:54 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LawsonWrites @BPuttroff oops! I said pop culture twice. It's probably telling. #indiechat -9:54 PM Sep 4th, 2012

EArroyo5 RT @AngelaAckerman: I think thats the real key of using Social media in any way --be genuine. #indiechat. #indiechat -9:55 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero I want to form a community. The question is, how? #indiechat -9:55 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr Being genuine as @AngelaAckerman said is vital. If I feel you actually want to talk with me instead of just spam me, I'm hooked #indiechat -9:55 PM Sep 4th, 2012

patricialynne07 @laurapauling I'm trying and it seems hit or miss for me. #indiechat -9:55 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @chihuahuazero Slowly over time, including your audience, getting them active with comments or contests, Maybe. #indiechat -9:55 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 Before #indiechat is over - I'm still looking for authors and bloggers for ABB http://t.co/BhEqSggN and indie authors are always welcome! -9:55 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @bytefulcom I do recognize what this means for me - cause it's huge. I just don't want it to be a one-time thing #indiechat -9:55 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AngelaAckerman @thebookdesignr Ah! Scarlett! <---the woman who created our awesome book cover! *throws sprinkles & glitter* #indiechat -9:55 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @susankayequinn That's true. But I see a lot of indie blogs focused on indie writing --are people really connecting with that? #indiechat -9:55 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes RT @EArroyo5: RT @AngelaAckerman: I think thats the real key of using Social media in any way --be genuine. #indiechat. #indiechat -9:56 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 RT @laurapauling: Yes! RT @AngelaAckerman: I think that's the real key of using Social media in any way --be genuine. #indiechat. -9:56 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DougSolter Sorry. F1 meaning Formula 1 racing. :) #indiechat -9:56 PM Sep 4th, 2012

overdunne @laurapauling I'm still figuring out FB pages. I've got a cool header though...:) (thanks Streetlight Graphics!) #indiechat -9:56 PM Sep 4th, 2012

EArroyo5 I write YA so sometimes I use my kids as filters before I go out in public. lol #indiechat -9:56 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @Froze8 I think a blog by a reader for readers is different -- different audience, different awesome purpose. #indiechat -9:56 PM Sep 4th, 2012

ali_cross @BPuttroff Not in my experience My readers want to connect with ME #indiechat -9:56 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @laurapauling Running a contest right now. Not a lot of people entered. #indiechat -9:56 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AngelaAckerman @thebookdesignr Exactly. If I like you and feel you are genuine, I want to help you succeed. #indiechat. This is how to build community. -9:56 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 @Steenaholmes gotta keep the momentum up!! :) @bytefulcom #indiechat -9:57 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn @BPuttroff My blog traffic doubled when I went indie. #indiechat -9:57 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @chihuahuazero yeah, that's tough b/c there are so many contests that it's hard to get noticed! #indiechat -9:57 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr @AngelaAckerman I accept sprinkles and glitter and respond with cookies and chocolate milk! #indiechat -9:57 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @ali_cross That's been my experience, too. My actual audience cares nothing about the writing/publishing process. #indiechat -9:57 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @BPuttroff I agree! But it still takes a lot of time and commitment to build up a blog :) #indiechat -9:57 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 “@AngelaAckerman: Exactly. If I like you and feel you are genuine, I want to help you succeed. #indiechat. This is how to build community.” -9:57 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn @BPuttroff I talk about indie stuff, but not exclusively. Sometimes I talk about Neil Armstrong. :) Sometimes I talk about my kid #indiechat -9:57 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AngelaAckerman @BPuttroff I think this is sometimes indies trying to market to indies. #indiechat -9:57 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr @AngelaAckerman And so many authors- as smallbiz- don't realise it's not going to happen straight away. It takes time and effort. #indiechat -9:57 PM Sep 4th, 2012

patricialynne07 @chihuahuazero I've had difficulty getting contests on my blog noticed too. =( #indiechat -9:58 PM Sep 4th, 2012

bytefulcom @Steenaholmes By "look the same" do you mean unchanged by outside circumstances or to reproduce the results you're getting now? #indiechat -9:58 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @susankayequinn @bputtroff really??? why the increase? Do you know? #indiechat -9:58 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 @AngelaAckerman great quote- perfect in fact! #indiechat -9:58 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Sibarium @laurapauling @chihuahuazero That's wehre being friendly with bloggers and your followers come in handy, & bloghops #indiechat -9:58 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @laurapauling And no one at the writer's forum I'm at even care about the book/interview. :( #indiechat -9:58 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AngelaAckerman @thebookdesignr YES! I so needed chocolate milk! #indiechat -9:58 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LawsonWrites @Stacey_WB I can't pretend to be an expert on anything except knowing too much about pop culture. I can only share my experiences #indiechat -9:58 PM Sep 4th, 2012

ali_cross @Froze8 It does, but it doesn't have to be your whole life Even if it's just 1x/wk, as long as your consistent, you're golden #indiechat -9:58 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @Froze8 It definitely does. I just wonder if it's what AUTHORS should be focused on -- or should we be promoting blogs like yours #indiechat -9:58 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @chihuahuazero @laurapauling What's is for? :D Got a contest on my blog too. #indiechat -9:58 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @Sibarium @laurapauling That's why I entered a Mythology Bloghop. All I need is an e-book to giveaway... #indiechat -9:59 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AngelaAckerman @patricialynne07 @chihuahuazero Have you guys tried pairing up with other bloggers for a group contest? This can be successful. #indiechat -9:59 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @Froze8 @laurapauling "Let's Write a Short Story!" by @joebunting. It's a writing craft e-book. #indiechat -9:59 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DiamondLB Excellent chat folks! Sorry I missed that last but there. ;) #indiechat -9:59 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @susankayequinn Did your sales? #indiechat -9:59 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn @Steenaholmes I'm pretty sure it was because I was publishing a novel people were excited to talk about. Plus indie was "new" #indiechat -9:59 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DiamondLB RT @laurapauling: @KatGirl_Studio Creating a group of fans who you reward and who help you promote - grassroots. #indiechat -9:59 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @AngelaAckerman @patricialynne07 I've done a (failed) blog hop, but not a group contest. Hmm... #indiechat -9:59 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @chihuahuazero @JessieHarrell wrote Destined which is based on Greek mythology. I bet she'd give away an ebook! #indiechat -9:59 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @BPuttroff @ali_cross I'll agree with this. I'm much more interested in the AUTHOR and the books than in the process #indiechat -9:59 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @AngelaAckerman Without meaning to, perhaps. #indiechat -9:59 PM Sep 4th, 2012

patricialynne07 @AngelaAckerman No I have not but I will keep that in mind for the next contest I try. #Indiechat @chihuahuazero -10:00 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AngelaAckerman @chihuahuazero Today @jamigold, @LurchKPrincess & I have a three way contest going on. It's working well. #Indiechat -10:00 PM Sep 4th, 2012

ali_cross Gotta jet and pick up Thing 2 from karate. Bye all! #indiechat -10:00 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling @ali_cross Bye! #indiechat -10:00 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr @ali_cross See ya! #indiechat -10:00 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DiamondLB RT @laurapauling: Here's an example of one author's approach to creating a street team. #indiechat http://t.co/nFCWcrrr -10:01 PM Sep 4th, 2012

laurapauling Everyone keep chatting! I'm going to sign off to do the transcripts. Thanks everyone for a great chat! #indiechat -10:01 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @ali_cross Good night! #indiechat -10:01 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn @BPuttroff My blog traffic and sales aren't correlated. Blog traffic doubled; sales have been exponentially increasing all along #indiechat -10:01 PM Sep 4th, 2012

DougSolter Yes! Great chat, Everyone! @Froze8 I will DM you here in a couple minutes. :) #indiechat -10:01 PM Sep 4th, 2012

AngelaAckerman @BPuttroff I think so. Sometimes it's people building community, s/t not. #indiechat. I hope most are genuine a/b building comm. #indiechat -10:01 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @bytefulcom I think a reproduction. Not just sales but keeping my readers, growing as a writer, write a better book. Make sense? #indiechat -10:01 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @laurapauling You're welcome! #indiechat -10:01 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio maybe i should have polls for what content people want to see me talk about in the blog. #indiechat -10:01 PM Sep 4th, 2012

overdunne I'm happy to provide guest posts about my fledgling novel, and would also host guest posters as soon as blog is ready for that :) #indiechat -10:01 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @ali_cross My goal has been 3 but that's because I'm also going promos/release day posts, things that aren't so time consuming #indiechat -10:01 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn Bye Ali! Thing2! *snort* @ali_cross: Gotta jet and pick up Thing 2 from karate. Bye all! #indiechat -10:01 PM Sep 4th, 2012

BPuttroff @susankayequinn That's kind of where my thought process is -- that blogging has nothing to do with book platform in fiction. #indiechat -10:02 PM Sep 4th, 2012

chihuahuazero @heatherbrewer's minion horde are the kind of community I want to create. #indiechat -10:02 PM Sep 4th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @laurapauling where are the transcripts? I've been missing so many chats due to wedding stuff. #indiechat -10:02 PM Sep 4th, 2012

susankayequinn @laurapauling Thanks for doing the transcript, as always, Laura! #yourock #indiechat -10:02 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Steenaholmes @susankayequinn make sense! I think writing a book people want to read is key. Same as writing a book with our 'heart' in it. #indiechat -10:02 PM Sep 4th, 2012

Froze8 @BPuttroff Good question. I think maybe it should not be a focus but another way to connect to readers. I want to know about u #indiechat -10:02 PM Sep 4th, 2012

LauraHoward78 RT @laurapauling: Here's an example of one author's approach to creating a street team. #indiechat http://t.co/nFCWcrrr -10:02 PM Sep 4th, 2012

thebookdesignr @KatGirl_Studio I find the best way is to scour twitter/forums. What are they talking about? What questions are asked? Then write.#indiechat -10:02 PM Sep 4th, 2012