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Susan
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Mar 26, 2012 10:23PM
As a pretty much unknown author on Goodreads, I could use some advice on having a successful Q&A. It was set up as part of my book tour. Does anyone have any suggestions on generating interest and participation? I'd love to hear from authors who hosted one. How did it go?
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I would like to expand the question by asking if anyone that has done one actually had a tangible result.I have never bothered with it and am inclined to think it is a waste of time. But if someone can show me otherwise, I am prepared to have my opinion changed.
well, a couple of questions - and keep in mind this is shooting from the hip because i know nothing about it. just taking guesses.
1. is this an ebook, createspace, self-publish, traditional publish?
B. is there a certain audience that can be reached, or will you just hope that people show up? it could be awkward for nobody to be there.
3. locations? library, bookstore, school? is there any advanced publicity at those locations?
D. price? special book price if you buy at the appearance?
5. back to location: perhaps contact a library to see if they have writing groups or reading groups. provide copies to the group free and have a roundtable writing discussion with them. if they're really into reading, then they'll talk about your book to others, and maybe the free copies will be worth it.
1. is this an ebook, createspace, self-publish, traditional publish?
B. is there a certain audience that can be reached, or will you just hope that people show up? it could be awkward for nobody to be there.
3. locations? library, bookstore, school? is there any advanced publicity at those locations?
D. price? special book price if you buy at the appearance?
5. back to location: perhaps contact a library to see if they have writing groups or reading groups. provide copies to the group free and have a roundtable writing discussion with them. if they're really into reading, then they'll talk about your book to others, and maybe the free copies will be worth it.
Sorry I was unclear. The Q&A is here on Goodreads as part of a virtual book tour. The way it was explained to me is that, people ask questions and I pop in from time to time to answer throughout the day. If nobody "shows," it won't be that big of a deal, but since I'm trying to generate interest in my book, any ideas would help.
oh, several people have done that just for fun, started their own topic.
If you have a particular Q&A audience in mind, a solidpromotion to that audience beforehand may prove helpful.
then it becomes a chicken v. egg thing. i guess people might have to read the book first before they might have any Q's and want to hear your A's.
Richard wrote: "then it becomes a chicken v. egg thing. i guess people might have to read the book first before they might have any Q's and want to hear your A's."That is my take on it, Richard. And then, those who have read it can always approach me with a question or find answers on my website.
Your chicken/egg thing is exactly what I wonder about too.
Gerald, or anyone else for that matter, that's exactly what I'm trying to figure out. How do I promote beforehand? I am offering Smashwords coupons for a free ebook download to anyone interested. Does anyone have any other ideas?I realize I am scrambling, but the date was picked for me, so I'm doing what I can.
Susan wrote: "Gerald, or anyone else for that matter, that's exactly what I'm trying to figure out. How do I promote beforehand? I am offering Smashwords coupons for a free ebook download to anyone interested. D..."Susan, in addition to promoting on every online site you can, another suggestion is that you contact every friend and acquaintance you can think of and have them promote your Q&A as extensively as they can.
Greg wrote: That is my take on it, Richard. And then, those who have read it can always approach me with a question or find answers on my website.
Your chicken/egg thing is exactly what I wonder about too.
...."
well, i guess we have to start somewhere. whatever you can do - do it!
Your chicken/egg thing is exactly what I wonder about too.
...."
well, i guess we have to start somewhere. whatever you can do - do it!
Can I suggest contacting a group who will have their group members read and review your book (for example: I'm part of Shut Up and Read which has a regular 'Read it and Reap' competition/thing that indie authors provide free copies of their book to the group - number to be advised by the author - and the group has to read AND REVIEW the book within approx. 2 weeks from the day the book is offered.)I have read quite a number of books through that group, but have since then branched out into my own topics in my groups offering reviews.
In terms of generating interest, one of my fav. authors is always blogging (and not just about her books, but self publishing and other writing related topics).
As a reader, I thoroughly enjoy being able to get in touch with the authors of the books I read and enjoy, so you're on the right track by being active on Goodreads.
Perhaps you could create your own group?
Not really any Questions there - but I stuck my head in to say hi :)
Susan, for whatever it's possibly worth, learning purposes or what have you, a good example of a Q&A session that may be helpful for you to look at can be seen by clicking,http://leighsavage.blogspot.com/2012/...
