Becky Robinson's Blog, page 3

Episode 147: Unlocking Book Marketing Success With the Four Reach Commitments (Bonus Season Part 2)

Click here to listen on your device and subscribe! 

Welcome to a special bonus season of The Book Marketing Action Podcast with Becky Robinson! As we prepare to launch Season 6, we want to kick off the new year by sharing recordings from Becky���s sessions at Write to Publish 2024���an annual conference that helps writers reach their goals no matter where they are on their journey. This bonus season is split into three parts and covers all of Becky���s Write to Publish sessions on achieving book marketing success. 

In part two, Becky outlines the four Reach Commitments that are necessary for expanding your audience and creating a lasting impact: value, consistency, longevity, and generosity. She also dives into the fundamentals of how to get started on the journey to creating reach. 

Key Topics of This Episode: Becky���s definition of reachThe four Reach Commitments:ValueConsistencyLongevityGenerosity The Reach Framework:Start with a websiteGet people to sign up for your email list from your website or a lead magnetCreate content of value in a variety of formats (content marketing)Share that content to grow your presence on social media Questions about growing an email list, repurposing content, and more A story about the power of bringing online connections offline Action Steps:Reflect on this question: As you think about the next book that you���re working on, what is the job you want that book to do for your life and career? Write down your answer so you don���t forget it. After learning about the four Reach Commitments, consider which one draws you in the most. How will you live out that commitment moving forward?Resources:Get more details about the brand new Book Marketing Accelerator Course���an ongoing learning opportunity with monthly sessions throughout 2025 that will guide you through every aspect of how to market your book and build momentum for your book launch.Sign up to attend Write to Publish 2025, happening June 10-13, where Becky will be hosting a continuing class on marketing and platform building. Follow Becky on Instagram and LinkedIn. Order Becky���s book, Reach , to access more of her expert insights on creating the biggest possible audience for your message, book, or cause. Key Quotes:

Your job when you’re crafting a book marketing strategy is to think about all the possibilities and to pull the strings of the approaches that are most appropriate for your book. ���Becky Robinson

Reach is expanding audience plus lasting impact. ���Becky Robinson

My book would not be the book it is without the help of an editor. ���Becky Robinson

Content is the container for the value that we want to bring to the world. ���Becky Robinson

The easiest and fastest way to become memorable to people is to be very clear about what you’re talking about so they know what to expect from you. ���Becky Robinson

The most important part of your online presence is your own website. ���Becky Robinson

If we go to someone’s website, it’s almost like we went to their home. We can see a bit more of who they are. We can get to know them a bit more. ���Becky Robinson

The most important and impactful asset that we have to repurpose is the raw experience of our own lives. ���Becky Robinson

Sign up for the bi-weekly newsletter to connect with Becky Robinson and gain access to ongoing learning and conversation. 

The post Episode 147: Unlocking Book Marketing Success With the Four Reach Commitments (Bonus Season Part 2) appeared first on Weaving Influence.

Episode 146: The Four Phases of Marketing a Book (Bonus Season Part 1)

Click here to listen on your device and subscribe! 

Welcome to a special bonus season of The Book Marketing Action Podcast with Becky Robinson! As we prepare to launch Season 6, we want to kick off the new year by sharing recordings from Becky���s sessions at Write to Publish 2024���an annual conference that helps writers reach their goals no matter where they are on their journey. This bonus season is split into three parts and covers all of Becky���s Write to Publish sessions on achieving book marketing success. 

In part one, Becky demystifies the book marketing process by grouping it into four distinct phases: building, working, launching, and advancing. By providing detailed guidance around each phase, Becky sparks new ideas for authors as they work to build a substantial audience, effectively manage the pre-launch period for their books, and maintain momentum post-launch. 

Key Topics of This Episode: The Building Phase (more than six months before launch).The Working Phase (less than six months before launch).The Launching Phase (the month of launch).The Advancing Phase (the month after launch and beyond).Answering questions about the four phases of marketing a book.Becky���s favorite book marketing reframes:Book marketing is not self-promotion, it���s value promotion. Book marketing is not a sprint, and it���s not a marathon. It���s showing up consistently in small ways over a long period of time.Other authors who write about the same topic as you are not your competitors���they are collaborators. Your network does not view your book marketing as an imposition. Instead, they are honored to be included on your journey. Action Steps:Pause for a moment and think: If you had the opportunity to share your book with others, who would you give it away to? Once you have reached The Advancing Phase, consider what you can do to keep your book in the conversation over time. What are some creative and strategic ways to keep showing up in online spaces? Resources:Get more details about the brand new Book Marketing Accelerator Course���an ongoing learning opportunity with monthly sessions throughout 2025 that will guide you through every aspect of how to market your book and build momentum for your book launch.Sign up to attend Write to Publish 2025, happening June 10-13, where Becky will be hosting a continuing class on marketing and platform building. Follow Becky on Instagram and LinkedIn. Order Becky���s book, Reach , to access more of her expert insights on creating the biggest possible audience for your message, book, or cause. Key Quotes:

Everything that you do as an author along the way has to be about building connections in the world so that you can reach more people with your message. ���Becky Robinson

Launching, or preparing to launch, a book is always going to take more time, energy, and money than you think. ���Becky Robinson

You are officially the Chief Marketing Officer of your book. ���Becky Robinson

The journey to writing your book can be the journey to creating the content that will help people connect with you and your ideas.  ���Becky Robinson

In order to reach your audience and your goals, you have to first know who your audience is and what success looks like for you. ���Becky Robinson

My deeply held belief is that the most important investment you can make in marketing your book, especially when you’re a first-time author, is to give copies of your book away to others. ���Becky Robinson

Your value is not contained in the number of followers that you have, your value is contained in the number of people that you can reach in a meaningful way over time. ���Becky Robinson

Sign up for the bi-weekly newsletter to connect with Becky Robinson and gain access to ongoing learning and conversation. 

The post Episode 146: The Four Phases of Marketing a Book (Bonus Season Part 1) appeared first on Weaving Influence.

January 2025 Leadership Development Carnival

Weaving Influence has the privilege of hosting the January 2025 Leadership Development Carnival! We���re excited to share posts from leadership experts from around the globe on the topics of communication, development, engagement, motivation, productivity, team building, and more.

Communication

Diana Peterson-More shared My 2025 New Year���s Resolutions: Eager to Hear Yours. Diana explains: “It’s that time of the year for New Year’s Resolutions. While many of mine include the standards: lose weight, exercise more, eat more healthfully, and save money, I’ve added to the list three communication tools from the book I published this year: 1) tamp down the “lizard brain” (while driving); 2) avoid “assuming facts not in evidence” (with my children): and, 3) follow the admonition of Rodney King (to whom the book is dedicated) to “just get along” (with those who hold world views in opposition to my own). What are your resolutions?��� Find Diana on LinkedIn.

CREATIVITY / INSPIRATION

Eileen McDargh contributed Becoming Present To Presence – Living In A Distracted World. Eileen explains: “We are pulled and torn by so many distractions, news reports, family matters, team issues���you name it. There are private and public resources available to help employees practice mindfulness & manage stress and I���ll share them with you.” Connect with Eileen on Twitter.

Brenda Yoho submitted Taking Stock: Shifting from Problem to Solution. Brenda writes: “The challenges we face can feel overwhelming���endless problems across all areas of life that seem to magnify daily. However, amidst the chaos, there is an opportunity to shift our mindset from problem-focused to solution-focused approaches. By taking stock of where we are and developing the skills and knowledge necessary to cope effectively, we can move forward with purpose and resilience.” Connect with Brenda on LinkedIn.

Development

Sean Glaze of Great Results Team Building shared 15 Questions Leaders Can Use to Transform Challenging Team Members into High Performers. Sean writes: ���Are you struggling with challenging team members? The right questions can transform them into your most valuable assets. Every leader will face tough personalities. But instead of seeing them as obstacles, view them as opportunities to strengthen your leadership toolkit and unlock untapped potential on your team.��� Find Sean on Twitter.

Dana Theus of InPower Coaching writes Ouch. I���ve Been Hiding Behind ‘Leadership’: Does calling ‘authority’ something else make it safer? Dana explains: ���I have a dirty little secret to share. For someone who writes a lot about power, I have to admit to you (and myself) that my fascination with this topic hides an ugly truth I wish wasn���t true about me. The truth is that I���m very afraid of power. Power scares me. Not just being around it but having it, too. Am I the only one? Probably not. Is this one reason women have so little formal power in the world? Probably so.��� Find Dana on LinkedIn.

Frank Sonnenberg shared Does It Pay to Nickel-and Dime? Frank explains: “Nickel-and-diming may seem harmless, but is it worth the cost? Small fees can boost profits, yet they erode trust and damage reputations in ways hard to repair.” Connect with Frank on Twitter.

Bill Treasurer of Giant Leap Consulting contributed Carry Yourself Like a Leader. Bill explains: “In a world often governed by fear and uncertainty, embracing an opportunity mindset is not just refreshing but transformative. This mindset shifts our focus from avoiding threats to seizing the chances for growth and development. It’s about understanding that opportunities are not just external chances that come our way, but are created and nurtured by leaders who understand their power to change lives.” Connect with Bill on LinkedIn.

Julie Winkle Giulioni shared Leadership 2025: Three Priorities You Can���t Ignore in the New Year. Julie explains: “As we enter 2025, the dynamics of leadership and organizational success continue to shift under the weight of complex global challenges and transformative trends. Today���s business landscape demands that leaders adopt bold strategies to navigate uncertainty, engage their teams meaningfully, and drive sustainable growth. Learn three interconnected priorities that stand out as essential for 2025.” Connect with Julie on LinkedIn.

Jon Verbeck provided Your Year-End Financial Checklist: Closing Strong and Planning for 2025. Jon writes: ���As the year winds down, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are at a pivotal crossroads: it���s time to finish strong while setting the stage for even greater success in 2025. This is your opportunity to assess whether your financial performance hit your goals, tackle any remaining obstacles, and lay out a bold strategy for the future.��� Follow Jon LinkedIn.

Ann Van Eron submitted The Birds of Worry and Care. Ann says: “That the birds of worry and care fly over your head, this you cannot change, but that they build nests in your hair, this you can prevent.��� ��� Chinese Proverb. Lately, I���ve been reflecting on this quote, especially given everything happening in the world and the constant stream of worries that come with being a leader���whether in business, community, or family. And believe me, I get it.” Connect with Ann on LinkedIn.

Engagement

David Grossman of The Grossman Group provided How to Give Feedback to Motivate and Engage Employees. David shares: “When giving feedback to employees, there���s an intentional approach you can take for it to be truly effective and given in a way that fosters motivation and engagement. This comprehensive guide outlines a four-step process and delves into the benefits of using feedback as a tool for improvement rather than criticism, along with actionable tips and specific examples of how to give positive and constructive feedback in different scenarios.” Follow David on LinkedIn.

Jon Lokhorst of Lokhorst Consulting shared Coaching Is the Answer to Employee Engagement. Jon explains: ���Recent Gallup research indicates that top-performing organizations maintain higher employee engagement levels through managers who support their team members with coaching. Here are three tips for becoming a master coach.” Find Jon on LinkedIn.

Michael Lee Stallard submitted Connected Leaders, Stand Strong! Michael writes: “Leading with connection isn’t the norm in many industries. We want to remind leaders why it matters and offer encouragement to help them persevere.” Connect with Michael on LinkedIn.

Karin Hurt and David Dye shared 5 Critical Insights to Empower Your Team in the New Year. They write: “What if this year, you could empower your team to not only start strong but stay strong���aligned, motivated, and clear on what success looks like every step of the way? Great teams don���t thrive by chance; they crush their goals because they know exactly where they���re going and the habits they need to get there.” Connect with Karin on LinkedIn and David on LinkedIn.

productivity

Neal Burgis of Successful Solutions contributed Retiring on Your Own Terms. Neal explains: “Retirement doesn’t have to be a passive chapter in your life. It can be productive depending on how you live it. Best Wishes to all who take the plunge and do what you want to do when you Retire on your Own Terms.” Follow Neal on Twitter.

Mary Ila Ward of Horizon Point Consulting shared 2024 Book of the Year. Mary writes: “Productivity has always been one of our five operating values at Horizon Point. We tie it intimately to our value of passion, which looks something like this: Get stuff done. Get stuff done that is important and that we care about.” Find Mary on LinkedIn.

Team Building

Priscilla Archangel submitted Trusting The New Leader. Priscilla writes: “Whether public or private, government or non-profit, each organization survives and thrives based on the level of trust that stakeholders have in their leadership team. And the board, owners, or others with oversight, are ultimately responsible for ensuring they���ve identified the right talent to place into those roles. Their selected candidate must quickly build trust, which is the foundation of every leadership appointment.” Connect with Priscilla on LinkedIn.

Robyn McLeod contributed The Keys to Thriving Hybrid Teams: Trust and Transparency. Robyn writes: “The keys to thriving hybrid teams: Trust and transparency. When team members trust each other, they are more likely to work together effectively and support each other. As a leader, you have the responsibility to model and enable trust ��� and that���s even more important in our hybrid world of work.” Connect with Robyn on Twitter.

OTHER

Marcella Bremer contributed Ready for 2025? Marcella considers: “Are you ready for 2025? We���ve seen a lot of disruption – and not just ecological changes, also in political, economical, social, and technological systems. Here���s an overview of my articles about futures, foresight and how to prepare your organization for change.” Follow Marcella on LinkedIn.

S. Chris Edmonds shared Mitigate Workplace Loneliness with a Vibrant Culture. Chris explains: “People across the globe are suffering from an epidemic of isolation and loneliness. Not all workplaces create loneliness, isolation and disrespect. Some sustain work cultures that are purposeful, positive and productive ��� and employees love working for those companies.” Find Chris on LinkedIn.

Naomi Caietti submitted AI Literacy in Action: Kicking Off Your Roadmap to Business Success in 2025! Naomi writes: “In today���s tech-driven world, AI literacy isn���t just a buzzword; it���s a must-have skill set for leaders looking to navigate an evolving business landscape. From CEOs and product managers to small business owners, understanding and leveraging AI is rapidly becoming the cornerstone of innovation, efficiency, and success. To help you and your organization stay ahead, I���m excited to launch the AI Literacy Series���a five-part journey into the transformative potential of AI.” Connect with Naomi on LinkedIn.

Thank you to everyone who submitted articles for this month’s carnival! If you would like to be added to the distribution list for submission calls, please fill out this form and we’ll be happy to add you to the list.

The post January 2025 Leadership Development Carnival appeared first on Weaving Influence.

Episode 145: Navigating Grief Through Writing and Podcasting��

Photo by Danielle Barnum Photography

Click here to listen on your device and subscribe! 

Welcome to Season 5 of The Book Marketing Action Podcast with Becky Robinson, where we give you information you can immediately implement to increase your influence and market your books more successfully.

In the final episode of Season 5, Becky is joined by Jenny Lisk���founder of the Widowed Parent Institute and award-winning author���who talks about her purposeful approach to sharing her story and insights with a broader audience, underscoring her commitment to filling the resource gaps she encountered as a widowed parent. She describes the challenge of determining which personal experiences to share publicly and the fine line between sharing her own story as a grieving parent while also respecting the stories of her grieving children. Additionally, the episode highlights Jenny’s strategic use of podcasting to build community, illustrating how her podcast has become a significant platform for dialogue on grief and parenting.

Key Points From This Episode:

[01:46] Jenny shares about herself and her work in the world. 

[03:17] Jenny talks about what it was like to write in real time about the heart-wrenching journey of having a terminally ill husband. 

[05:42] Discover how and when Jenny decided to share her experiences and her story more widely. 

[08:11] Jenny reveals the resource that was most useful for her as she crafted her memoir: The Anatomy of Story by John Truby. 

[10:00] Why has it been so important for Jenny to open up about her journey as a widowed parent? She shares some reflections. 

[11:57] Jenny discusses what she has seen and experienced as a result of making the intentional choice to share her journey in online spaces. 

[16:15] Jenny explains how she decides which experiences or stories are okay to share in real-time vs. which ones should be shared later or kept private. 

[20:26] Jenny talks about interviewing her daughter on her podcast, which she has done once before. 

[20:58] (AD) Learn about our Book Marketing Strategy Live Course.

[22:29] Jenny discusses her decision to start a podcast and what inspired it. 

[25:11] Jenny reveals how long she did her podcast before she launched her first book. 

[26:08] Discover how starting a podcast helped Jenny find her voice and navigate being a widowed parent.

[28:06] Jenny shares some of the most impactful ways she repurposes her content, which includes creating evergreen email sequences.  

Action Steps:

If you���re thinking about ways to repurpose your content, consider whether you can create an email sequence that���s evergreen. This is an effective way to help people continue to get your best ideas.  If you���re struggling with the feeling of vulnerability as you approach the launch of your book, write down this quote from author Julie Lythcott-Haims: ���Memoir is an act of service.��� Every time you question your journey, take a look at that quote to remember why you���re doing it.  

Resources:

We���re giving away both of Jenny���s books! Two random winners will be selected, one receiving a signed and personalized copy of Widowed Parents Unite and the other receiving a signed and personalized copy of Future Widow . Winners will be selected randomly on Friday, November 22, and will be notified via email. Fill out this form to enter!Explore Jenny���s website and sign up for her newsletter. Follow Jenny on Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, YouTube, and Tiktok.Learn more about the Widowed Parent Institute, founded by Jenny.Listen to The Widowed Parent Podcast on Spotify and Apple PodcastsDiscover these free resources from Jenny: Tips & Resources for Widowed ParentsTips & Resources for Grief AlliesCrash Course for Nonfiction Authors

Key Quotes:

I’m working on some picture books for grieving kids, and my daughter is my illustrator, which I’m very excited about. ���Jenny Lisk

I’d never planned on raising two grieving kids myself. I wanted to start sharing in real time how this was unfolding for me. ���Jenny Lisk

I knew memoir is inherently a vulnerable genre. You’re telling something about your life and the ups and the downs and the good and the bad and all these things. ���Jenny Lisk

I didn’t expect to have this vulnerability freak out. ���Jenny Lisk

My topic is widowed parenting, and I’m talking to widowed parents, and yet my kids’ stories are their own to share. ���Jenny Lisk

The podcast and the ability to talk to people, learn from them, and build relationships with them have really been an important part of this whole journey. ���Jenny Lisk

Sign up for the bi-weekly newsletter to connect with Becky Robinson and gain access to ongoing learning and conversation. 

Explore our archives! Listen to Becky���s five favorite episodes:

Episode 106 with Jane FriedmanEpisode 108 with  AJ HarperEpisode 112 with Clint Pulver Episode 121 with Juliet StarrettEpisode 125 with Michael Bungay Stanier

The post Episode 145: Navigating Grief Through Writing and Podcasting�� appeared first on Weaving Influence.

Breaking Up the Digital Book Monopoly: Reimagining Digital Ownership for Authors and Readers

Photo by lightfieldstudios / 123rf.com

Information in this article is pulled from Episode 144 of The Book Marketing Action Podcast featuring Joshua Stone. 

The landscape of digital book ownership is undergoing a transformation. With traditional ebook monopolies like Kindle dominating the market, emerging platforms are challenging the status quo by restoring true ownership to readers and providing exceptional benefits to authors. 

In the latest episode of The Book Marketing Action Podcast, Joshua Stone���CEO of Book.io���explains the significance of digital book ownership and the potential for reshaping the industry.

���Technology hasn���t evolved in the ebook and audiobook space, basically since it was invented. And I feel like it���s definitely time that occurs, and it���s going to usher in a lot of new changes.��� ���Joshua Stone

Rethinking Digital Book Ownership Through Emerging Platforms

Traditional ebook platforms have long embedded a licensing model that limits readers��� access to digital content, meaning that:

Readers don���t truly own the digital books they purchase. They are effectively just purchasing a license to view the books.��Readers can���t resell their books, leaving the books forgotten on a digital shelf.��Authors don���t actually own their audience���the retailer does���so there is a lack of transparency and no way for authors to communicate directly with their digital book consumers, which limits their marketing efforts.��

Platforms like Book.io are working to redefine this dynamic and improve the experience for both readers and authors. Their goal is to take the freedom, transparency, and ownership that people have when they purchase a physical book and have that exist in the digital world, as well. The benefits of this shift include:

Giving readers full ownership of any ebooks and audiobooks they purchase, eliminating the risk of having their access taken away.Providing readers with the option to sell their books on a global secondary market.��Allowing publishers and authors to earn royalties for first-time digital book sales, and continued royalties on secondary sales.��Giving authors access to user data, helping to inform their marketing efforts and engage their audience.

This last point in particular is a significant one. By allowing data transparency and direct interaction, authors can optimize their marketing strategies and offer tailored reader experiences.

Optimizing Author-Reader Interaction and Marketing Opportunities��

Unlike traditional platforms where authors are distanced from their audiences, Book.io offers unparalleled access to user data, enabling targeted marketing and strategic audience building.

���You can start to do really interesting marketing and merchandising and gamify the experience, which exists in many, many other verticals, but has never been opened up to book publishing in the way that this allows���because it’s not licensed, it’s actual ownership. There are just an infinite amount of ways that it helps from the marketing standpoint.��� ���Joshua Stone 

This direct line to consumer habits and preferences allows authors to innovate in ways unimaginable before. Joshua Stone provides an example of what one author has been able to do through Book.io:

When releasing their second book, the author offered a discount to anyone who had the first book on their digital shelf.If users owned the first book and the second book, then they automatically got the third book for free when it came out.Every user who had all three books and kept them got exclusive access to the fourth book in the series.

This strategy incentivizes initial sales while fostering deeper reader engagement. The ability to verify who has read a book also paves the way for creating exclusive reader clubs and personalized interactions between authors and their audience. 

By enabling genuine ownership and facilitating direct engagement, platforms like Book.io offer exciting new avenues for both creating and consuming content. As these technologies continue to evolve, they promise a future where authors and readers alike have true agency over their digital assets.��

Next Steps

Explore Book.io for yourself���either as an author or as a reader. Take time to familiarize yourself with the platform and experience the difference of actually owning your digital content, being able to resell it, and having access to your audience.

With more than 25 years in tech, Joshua Stone has experience in all stages of development from fledgling startups to established enterprises. In 1999, he contributed to the initial development of Fandango.com, later he led the interactive marketing teams for AT&T, and further led the Product/UX team for hotels.com/Expedia, Inc. Josh has had two startup exits, Big Jump Media (GodTube.com), and BookShout.com, where he was President and Chief Product Officer. Most recently, he served as CEO of a NYT-Bestselling Author���s digital training platform before starting Book.io.

The post Breaking Up the Digital Book Monopoly: Reimagining Digital Ownership for Authors and Readers appeared first on Weaving Influence.

Episode 144: Breaking Up the Digital Book Monopoly

Photo by lightfieldstudios / 123rf.com

Click here to listen on your device and subscribe! 

Welcome to Season 5 of The Book Marketing Action Podcast with Becky Robinson, where we give you information you can immediately implement to increase your influence and market your books more successfully. 

In today���s episode, Becky delves into the world of digital book ownership with Joshua Stone, CEO of Book.io���a platform that allows readers to buy ebooks and audiobooks and sell them on a global secondary market, with publishers and authors earning royalties on the sales. The conversation centers around the limitations of current ebook licensing models, championed by platforms like Amazon, which prevent true ownership of digital content. Joshua sheds light on how Book.io is disrupting this monopoly, offering a solution that restores the rights of authors and the autonomy of readers.

Key Points From This Episode:

[01:41] Joshua shares about himself and his work in the world.

[02:49] Why is digital book ownership such a messy endeavor for authors? Joshua explains.

[07:17] Joshua talks about what the current ebook and audiobook market is like for both readers and authors.

[15:00] Learn more about what Book.io is and how authors and publishers are using it as a new way to experience digital book ownership. 

[20:17] Joshua elaborates on how Book.io is non-exclusive, allowing authors to publish their digital books in traditional formats as well. 

[23:02] Joshua talks about the digital exchange of ebooks and audiobooks on Book.io and the benefits of passing digital books from owner to owner. 

[26:32] How does Book.io work for first-time authors who might be struggling to find an audience for their work? Joshua explains how it could help those authors.

[30:06] (AD) Learn about our Book Marketing Strategy Live Course.

[31:30] Joshua discusses the value of borderless knowledge sharing.

[35:00] Joshua reveals whether or not he thinks it���s possible to truly break up the digital book monopoly.

[39:25] Joshua shares how new technology options within Book.io can help authors combat the worries they have about AI. 

Action Steps:

Explore the possibility of publishing and distributing your book digitally through Book.io. Fill out the form and someone from their onboarding team will contact you. Explore Book.io as a reader and purchase a book from the platform. Experience the difference of actually owning the content and being able to resell it.  

Resources:

Follow Book.io on X (formerly Twitter) and join the Discord.Follow Joshua on X (formerly Twitter).  

Key Quotes:

Consumers don’t actually own their digital books. They are just effectively buying a rental license to look at the book. ���Joshua Stone

Technology hasn’t evolved in the ebook and audiobook space, basically since it was invented. And I feel like it’s definitely time that occurs, and it’s going to usher in a lot of new changes. ���Joshua Stone

That’s really what we’re doing���taking the freedom and the transparency, and the ownership and agency that you have when you purchase a physical item, and having that exact equivalent exist on the digital side as well. ���Joshua Stone

The books on Book.io are not like any digital book has been in the past. They are more like a physical book, except they don���t deteriorate, and you can always see exactly who owns them. ���Joshua Stone

I see AI as a tool set, just like Photoshop or even just like a word processor. ���Joshua Stone

Sign up for the bi-weekly newsletter to connect with Becky Robinson and gain access to ongoing learning and conversation. 

Explore our archives! Listen to Becky���s five favorite episodes:

Episode 125 with Michael Bungay StanierEpisode 121 with Juliet StarrettEpisode 112 with Clint Pulver Episode 108 with  AJ HarperEpisode 106 with Jane Friedman

The post Episode 144: Breaking Up the Digital Book Monopoly appeared first on Weaving Influence.

Are You Producing a Book in 2025?

Book Production Insights From Our Self-Publishing Specialist

The experience of being an author has dramatically changed in recent years.

Publishing, editing, and online marketing are easier than ever to access, allowing more voices to share their messages with diverse audiences. Conversely, confusion has increased, as there are numerous options for independent authors to choose from���creating overwhelm for many authors.��

Many authors find themselves with manuscripts or plans for manuscripts but have no idea how to navigate the publication process. We���re here to help. Lori Weidert, our self-publishing specialist, answered some frequently asked questions about the book production process to help guide your journey.

What are the standard book production steps?

Each author���s journey will vary a little, but there are some standard steps they can all expect to take on their production path with Weaving Influence: 

Manuscript review and contracting��Design of cover and custom interiorCopyediting��Author review and approval of editsTypesetting��ProofreadingCorrect/reviseIndexing, if desired��Additional proofreading and corrections��Print proof and any changesDistributionHow long does book production at Weaving Influence typically take?

The length of book production depends on the nature of the book and the author���s available time and could be influenced by the content and length of the manuscript. Producing a book with many design elements���tables, boxes, graphics, extracts, quotes���may take a bit longer, as each of those items has to be assembled and then ���fit��� into the text in a logical manner.

If everything goes smoothly and the author meets their timeline commitments, 16-20 weeks is a very comfortable schedule.

What common misconceptions do you see from self-published authors?

After working so hard to complete their manuscripts, authors are often unprepared for the amount of work left to do and the number of decisions to make. A review of edits, further writing, design and specification decisions, etc., is still pending.

There are a lot of outstanding questions and needs throughout the production process. While there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, there’s still a fair amount of work after you’re done writing.

Additionally, most authors believe that once the book is live on Amazon, the work is done, and marketing should start then. Authors should be working on their marketing plans while the book is still being produced. We often see authors put the marketing piece on hold during the production process, but that delay will limit the success of their book during and after launch.

What is the difference between design and typesetting?

The word ���typesetter��� conjures images of metal letters and a giant press to most people, and ���compositor��� draws a complete blank. I���ve taken to explaining it with an analogy: the designer works as the ���architect��� of the project, mapping out the appearance and the beautiful elements, and the typesetter is the engineer, or construction worker���building the book to the specifications in that ���blueprint.���

Typesetting involves ensuring that every word or paragraph has a proper appearance���a head, a bullet, or a graphic���that spacing around elements is correct, and that word, line, and page breaks are proper.

A good book designer and typesetter will always keep the reader in mind. It should be aesthetically pleasing and assembled so as not to break a reader���s stride.

What is the difference between copy editing and proofreading?

Copy editors will clean up typographical and grammatical errors. They also check for consistency and cohesiveness throughout the book and ensure that the writing is coherent and the text flows easily.

While proofreaders do check for typographical errors, this is the least of their jobs. Proofreaders check that all elements have been styled correctly, that lines, paragraphs, and pages break properly, and that every chapter has been typeset correctly.

What are the biggest benefits of self-publishing?

Self-publishing truly offers a number of benefits, including: 

More control over the process��A larger profit on individual books sold, as the author retains all royalties��Full decision-making control about the book��Author retains the copyright to their work��Faster timeline than traditional publishingWhat are the biggest challenges in self-publishing?

Because millions of books are released yearly, self-published authors may find difficulty connecting with their audiences and breaking through the noise. It���s important to be clear about the audience you���re writing for and how you want to reach them. You also need to set realistic expectations around what success looks like. Nonfiction authors who tie their books to their company services or offerings often find the book can be a productive tool for landing new clients and work.

Authors often find marketing and sales to be challenging because they���re juggling their day-to-day work with production and promotion. Marketing a book often takes more time, energy, and money than authors tend to expect and will include numerous tactics, including websites, public relations, social media, emails, and advertising. It���s important to identify which tasks you can take on yourself and which tasks you may need to outsource to a reputable partner who can manage your book marketing. 

I���ve also seen firsthand that it can be challenging for authors to receive feedback on their manuscripts. Authors pour their heart and soul into their books, and it can be hurtful or frustrating if we say it needs to be changed. I always want authors to remember, though, that we give feedback because we care. We want you to have the best possible outcome, and we know it can be hard sometimes to receive that feedback���but it���s important and will ultimately create a better end product. 

how do you pick the right self-publishing partner?

I would recommend that you evaluate the experience of the team, and that there is a complete team���that there is someone who is a copy editor, a typesetter, a proofreader. You want to ensure every critical role is filled by an experienced specialist. 

Beyond the production aspect, I think it’s important to understand what you are responsible for and what your publisher is responsible for. You���ll want a partner who clearly identifies those roles, pieces like copyrights and permissions, to ensure you have a partner who meets you where you are. If you need that extra assistance, make sure that they can give it to you. If you���re nervous or confused, find a partner who can hold your hand through the process and will make you feel comfortable every step of the way. 

Weaving Influence is proud to have produced a number of books���from manuscript to publication���for our clients. Take a look at some of our recent projects: 

Beyond: Create a Life You Love After 50, 60, 70, and More Becoming a Leader Worth Following: A Practical Guide for Leading Self, Teams, and Organizations STOP! Shift the Energy at Work: A New Approach for Leaders & Teams Unleash Love: The Joy of Christmas��

We recognize that writers and authors give everything to their books and that, after finalizing a manuscript, the next steps can be intimidating and scary. My favorite part of working with our authors is the cartwheels and tears that occur the day an author opens the first bound copy of their book. Our objective at Weaving Influence isn���t just to ���crank out��� a book for an author but to lovingly hold their hands during the process.

If you want to learn more about Weaving Influence���s unmatched book production support, fill out this form. 

The post Are You Producing a Book in 2025? appeared first on Weaving Influence.

Episode 143: Pre-Order Campaigns for Self-Published and Hybrid-Published Authors

Photo by lightfieldstudios / 123rf.com

Click here to listen on your device and subscribe! 

Welcome to Season 5 of The Book Marketing Action Podcast with Becky Robinson, where we give you information you can immediately implement to increase your influence and market your books more successfully. 

In the final part of this two-part series, Becky is again interviewed by Franchesca Conner���a PR specialist at Weaving Influence. They take a deep dive into the nuances of marketing Print on Demand (POD) books, highlighting benefits, challenges, and strategies surrounding pre-order campaigns. 

With the rise of self-publishing and hybrid-publishing models, many authors face unique hurdles in timing and planning their book launches. Becky emphasizes the importance of pre-orders in establishing a book���s credibility, building anticipation for launch, securing retailer links, and facilitating planned marketing efforts. Becky also reveals some of the key reasons why an author of a POD book might choose not to make it available for pre-order, focusing primarily on first-week book sales and post-launch marketing efforts. 

Key Points From This Episode:

[01:06] Becky reveals what is different about marketing POD books. 

[04:25] Becky talks about IngramSpark���a book distribution platform where authors can set up their POD books for pre-order.

[06:25] Becky explains some of the main reasons for setting up a POD book for pre-order. 

[08:05] Discover how setting up a POD book for pre-order can benefit book awareness, sales, and marketing initiatives. 

[10:37] For POD titles, why would an author want to focus more on the first week of sales after the book launches? Becky explains. 

[12:34] (AD) Learn about our Book Marketing Strategy Live Course.

[14:11] Becky shares whether or not it���s a good idea for an author with no pre-order period for their book to switch up their categories on Amazon. 

[16:24] Becky talks about how hybrid publishers typically approach pre-order campaigns for POD books and the limitations authors might face in that scenario. 

[20:00] Becky shares some final advice for self-published and hybrid-published authors who are preparing to market their POD books and/or launch a pre-order campaign. 

Action Steps:

Make a list of questions for your hybrid publisher. Write down as many questions as you can think of���for example, will the book be set up for pre-order?���and educate yourself about the process so that you can request the support you need from the service provider you’ve selected.Take a deep breath and think about your long-term book marketing. If you chose a POD model to publish your book and didn���t do a lot of marketing prep before it launched, now is the time to plan your long-term marketing efforts. Check out this blog featuring long-term book marketing strategies! 

Resources:

Follow Becky on LinkedIn and Instagram. Connect with Franchesca on LinkedIn. 

Key Quotes:

In recent years there has been a big increase in people self-publishing books, and most self-publishing is a Print on Demand model. ���Becky Robinson 

One benefit of setting your book up for pre-order is the ability to know the day your book will be live and available for people who want to buy it. ���Becky Robinson 

It’s not really that useful to be looking at your Amazon rank constantly. It’s better to just try to execute your marketing plan in a consistent way to keep your book out there in the conversation. ���Becky Robinson 

You want to allow enough time between when your book is made available on Amazon and when you do any kind of launch week outreach to ensure that your book is registering and ranking. ���Becky Robinson

Ask as many questions as you can of your hybrid publisher so you know what to expect. ���Becky Robinson

If you feel like you missed the boat because you didn’t have a pre-order period to prepare your marketing efforts, you also have the lifetime of your book to be able to share it with others. ���Becky Robinson

Keep showing up over time with the core messages of your book. ���Becky Robinson

Sign up for the bi-weekly newsletter to connect with Becky Robinson and gain access to ongoing learning and conversation. 

Read this blog post for more information on pre-order campaigns for self-published and hybrid-published authors.

Explore our archives! Listen to Becky���s five favorite episodes:

Episode 125 with Michael Bungay StanierEpisode 121 with Juliet StarrettEpisode 112 with Clint Pulver Episode 108 with  AJ HarperEpisode 106 with Jane Friedman

The post Episode 143: Pre-Order Campaigns for Self-Published and Hybrid-Published Authors appeared first on Weaving Influence.

Episode 142: Pre-Order Campaigns for Traditionally Published Authors

Photo by olegdudko / 123rf.com

Click here to listen on your device and subscribe! 

Welcome to Season 5 of The Book Marketing Action Podcast with Becky Robinson, where we give you information you can immediately implement to increase your influence and market your books more successfully. 

In part one of this two-part series, Becky is interviewed by Franchesca Conner���a PR specialist at Weaving Influence. They explore the vital topic of pre-order campaigns for traditionally published authors, discussing when and how authors should start engaging their audience, the significance of one-to-one outreach efforts, and strategies for creating pre-order incentives. 

Stay tuned for part two of this series, which will focus on pre-order campaigns for self-published and hybrid-published authors!

Key Points From This Episode:

[02:05] Franchesca introduces herself and explains her role at Weaving Influence.

[02:55] Becky explains some of the key differences between pre-order campaigns for traditionally published authors and pre-order campaigns for self-published authors. 

[06:14] Get a better understanding of the recommended timeframe for setting up pre-orders for traditionally published authors. 

[08:33] Becky emphasizes why it���s important for authors to drive sales for their books in order to honor the investment of their traditional publisher. 

[09:12] Becky reveals which platforms are typically favored for setting up print books for pre-order and what challenges authors might encounter when using those platforms. 

[11:47] Will a publisher usually recommend retailers for an author? Becky explains. 

[13:00] Becky talks about how authors can enhance their pre-order campaigns through one-to-one outreach efforts.

[14:43] (AD) Learn about our Book Marketing Strategy Live Course.

[16:20] Becky shares some of the key strategies for authors to promote pre-orders of their books. 

[19:14] Becky discusses Amazon bestseller status and outlines ways that authors can create pre-order incentives. 

[25:45] Are there specific pre-order incentive strategies that are more successful than others? Becky reveals the answer based on her own experience working with authors. 

Action Steps:

Set a goal for pre-orders of your book. Have an idea of the number of pre-orders you would like to achieve, and then think about the different strategies you can use to reach that goal.Look at book launch campaigns that are currently in progress. Take notes on what you see other authors doing with their pre-order incentives and brainstorm ideas of what you might use for your campaign. 

Resources:

Learn more about bookshop.org, an online bookstore with a mission to financially support local, independent bookstores.Explore Alison Fragale���s book incentives to get an idea of what is possible for obtaining pre-orders. Follow Becky on LinkedIn and Instagram. Connect with Franchesca on LinkedIn. 

Key Quotes:

When it comes to pre-orders for traditionally published authors, the key difference is the timeline. ���Becky Robinson 

I advise that authors start asking for pre-orders only about two to three months before the publication date. ���Becky Robinson 

I highly recommend that authors share their author journey through their social channels leading up to the release of their book. ���Becky Robinson 

It’s important to honor the investment that a traditional publisher is making in you and do everything you can to drive sales for your book. ���Becky Robinson

The more authors can lean into individual outreach to their networks, the more successful they will be. ���Becky Robinson

It’s so important for authors to think through who they are, what they’ve done, what their goals are, and then identify what will uniquely work for them because everyone brings a different set of resources to their campaigns. ���Becky Robinson

Sign up for the bi-weekly newsletter to connect with Becky Robinson and gain access to ongoing learning and conversation. 

Explore our archives! Listen to Becky���s five favorite episodes:

Episode 125 with Michael Bungay StanierEpisode 121 with Juliet StarrettEpisode 112 with Clint Pulver Episode 108 with  AJ HarperEpisode 106 with Jane Friedman

The post Episode 142: Pre-Order Campaigns for Traditionally Published Authors appeared first on Weaving Influence.

Expand Your Book���s Global Reach: Tactics for Unlocking International Success

Photo by bee32 / 123rf.com

Information in this article is pulled from Episode 141 of The Book Marketing Action Podcast featuring Margaux Weisman. 

Many authors dream of seeing their books translated and distributed worldwide, but run into challenges as they navigate the complexities of international licensing. 

Fortunately, there is a simpler way to connect with foreign rights buyers and achieve international success. DropCap Marketplace is an innovative platform that is breaking down those barriers for self-published and independent authors, as well as traditional or hybrid-published authors, helping them showcase their work to rights buyers around the world.

Determining if a Book Has Global Appeal

Listing a book on DropCap Marketplace is not just a way to facilitate potential licenses with foreign publishers���it���s a way to gauge international interest. This data collection is a great first step toward understanding the global appeal of your work. 

If you sign up and see that publishers from all over the world are interacting with your book, that gives you important data about other marketing efforts you might want to make in order to expand your reach to those areas of the world. Alternatively, if your book is not seeing any activity, it may be a sign that the audience is more domestic. 

If you don’t know whether your book has global appeal and it’s something you’re curious about, DropCap Marketplace can also be an excellent tool for data collection, and I think it’s just a great first step.  ���Margaux Weisman 

Connecting Authors with Foreign Markets

For self-published and independent authors in particular, connecting with foreign markets without the backing of a traditional publisher or agent can be intimidating. DropCap Marketplace acts as a matchmaking service between authors and rights buyers, simplifying and automating the acquisition process.

By vetting all foreign publishers, editors, agents, and rights buyers before giving them access to the marketplace, DropCap ensures that authors are engaging with legitimate partners, not only building trust but also fostering a safe environment for rights transactions. 

Once a book is listed, the platform’s matchmaking algorithm comes into play. This algorithm prioritizes books based on their genre, themes, and the specific preferences of rights buyers. For example, a rights buyer specializing in Science Fiction will see recommendations tailored to their interests within that particular genre, as opposed to only being exposed to books in the most popular genres. This level of personalization ensures that books are showcased to the right audience, increasing the likelihood of successful licensing deals. 

Authors who are not represented by agents, or who are working with publishers that are smaller and don’t have a robust subsidiary rights (sub-rights) department, have very limited capability when it comes to achieving global reach. Even for an author who is traditionally published, most agents and sub-rights managers don���t have enough time or bandwidth to invest in connecting them with extensive foreign markets. DropCap opens these doors, providing a structured platform where authors can explore international markets without the need for industry connections.

Even the best agent in the world is not necessarily going to be able to hit every single market or identify every single particular buyer for your particular project. And we���re trying to make sure that we do that. ���Margaux Weisman 

Future Developments and Opportunities

DropCap is continuously evolving to better serve authors. Some exciting developments on the horizon include:

The introduction of more educational resources. These resources will help authors understand foreign rights and licensing, providing valuable insights even if they don’t secure a license within their first year on the platform.Book fairs are a huge part of connecting authors to foreign rights buyers, and DropCap is working on new promotional opportunities that reach those book fairs and beyond. These initiatives will offer authors new ways to highlight their books and reach international audiences throughout the year.

One of the things we offer to our subscribers is the opportunity to send their books to the fairs, but I want more promotions and more opportunities for authors to highlight their books to our rights buyers that are not necessarily tied to the fairs. ���Margaux Weisman 

Whether you���re an independent author or traditionally published, DropCap Marketplace is a necessary resource for growing in your career and unlocking global success for your work.

Take Action

Start gaining exposure to publishers and editors around the world. 

Weaving Influence consistently looks for new ways to support our authors, which is why we are excited to partner with DropCap Marketplace to offer authors discounted access to the platform and all of its benefits.��

Sign up using our co-branded page and the code ���weave��� at checkout to save 20% on your first year.

With over 10 years of experience in the book publishing industry and an MFA in fiction, Margaux Weisman is a content expert and a storytelling enthusiast. She has published a range of critically acclaimed and commercially successful titles, including New York Times bestsellers, National Book Award longlisted novels, and Whiting Award winners.

Margaux is passionate about bringing stories to life, positioning content in the marketplace, and helping authors reach their potential and their readers. She is currently the Director of New Business Development at DropCap Marketplace. 

The post Expand Your Book���s Global Reach: Tactics for Unlocking International Success appeared first on Weaving Influence.