When I entered the world of independent publishing with my debut novel Coven in 2017, I had no idea what I was doing. Nor a clue as to the amount of work that would need to be put in behind-the-scenes to make my book seen or even profitable.
Three years later, with six published books and a multitude of ups and downs, I’m happy to say I’ve found better footing in this wonderful world. I want to share with you some of the behind-the-seen rigors of what it takes for me to be a full-time writer (besides the actual writing part).
Advertising
The first thing my husband and I learned after making less than 50 sales on my first two books by the end of 2017 was this: If you want to succeed in any measure, you must invest in yourself.
So we did.
We bought courses to help us learn the world of advertising as suited specifically to the needs of independent authors. The biggest game-changer we encountered: The Self-Publishing Formula by Mark Dawson. Between my husband’s business analytics background and my knack for photoshop and writing copy, we saw results almost instantly in our advertising efforts.
It was exhilarating, but not without its pitfalls. There was quite a lot for us to learn as time progressed, with instant success tampering into reliable income to slow months then back to highs.
With all the hurdles we’ve experienced, we’ve learned to roll with the punches and what techniques and tricks sold best. Nowadays, we have a system in place—a kind of checks and balances as far as workload goes—I create and monitor ads weekly, and my husband dives into monthly metrics.
Engagement (social media, email list, etc.)
Facebook.
Instagram.
Pinterest.
YouTube.
My blog.
Rebecca’s Readers (email list).
It was pretty overwhelming to discover how often it was suggested online in author forums and “How To” guides to post on social media—once or twice a day on some platforms and weekly and monthly for others.
I know, I know—that doesn’t sound overwhelming, but to a gal who likes to have things scheduled far in advance and coordinate cross-promoting, the task of creating 30+ unique social media posts on top of other original content, was a migraine in the making.
Which is why I didn’t listen to the advice.
I keep a posting schedule that is conducive to the natural ebb and flow of my work. If I go on a posting streak—great! If I don’t, it’s not the end of the world. What’s most important to me is posting content that I think my readers will enjoy and engage in. Simple as that.
Inkwell & Main
Inkwell & Main is my store where I can sell my books directly and take 100% of the profit (take that Amazon and iTunes). It’s also where I sell other bookish paraphernalia for my fellow bibliophiles.
It’s a WIP if I’m being honest. I haven’t found the rhythm or stride to funnel consistent revenue from it—but I’m determined to make it work!
Networking
My latest, and most personal, WIP: finding an author network I can learn from and lean on.
Writing is a fairly solitary process, which I don’t mind in the least, but I’d love to make more friends in the writing community. I’d love to learn new publishing and writing tricks, and be able to help others with my knowledge.
Wish me luck!
Editing
… Ugh. Editing.
Editing is incredibly time-consuming, between my own revisions pre- and post-editing services, this facet of the publishing world can take several months to complete. And if you’re not aware of the editing debacle of Lunaria, then you should read my story here.
With all that laid out, here’s a snapshot of how I typically divide my attention between tasks (excluding editing, which only happens at the time of new releases).
Mondays
Mornings: Networking, Engagement
Afternoons: Write
Tuesdays
Mornings: Advertising, Networking, Engagement
Afternoons: Write
Wednesdays (aka the best day of the week)
Write
Thursdays
Mornings: Write
Afternoons: Write, Engagement
Fridays
Mornings: Advertising, Engagement
Afternoons: Write
Saturdays/Sundays: OFF
Three years ago, I would have hesitated to call myself an author. Now it’s something I proudly proclaim while tacking on the title of entrepreneur besides it. Because I am. My hustle and drive are allowing me to live my dream of being a full-time author—and so are you (thanks for that by the way)—and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon.
I’ve got some exciting projects and news waiting on the back burner, so be sure to keep an eye out on my “engagement” platforms.
