Dear Plodding Plotter,
I want you to consider the special ingredients for a successful relationship. Because, my sweet, that is what all these social media interactions are: loving tokens on the path to a lifelong commitment.
Think of your reader communication like a long-distance friendship. You wouldn't only ring up a dear friend when you've got some massive life announcement, would you? No, you share the little moments—the quirky observations, the tiny victories, and the occasional ridiculous mishap that made you snort your morning tea.
Have you ever watched that quaint show The Great British Bake Off (GBBO)? The main reason it’s so popular is that viewers feel like they are getting to cozy up to the contestants. I could argue that US culinary shows are all about the competition, and the final result: Winning is all. But the charm of GBBO is the exact opposite. Your readers aren't just interested in the final, perfectly frosted creation that is your next book; they want to see you measuring flour, cracking eggs, and occasionally setting off the smoke alarm. They're invested in the process, not just the product.
So what might that look like in practice? Perhaps offer a behind-the-scenes peek at your research rabbit holes. Maybe post a snapshot of your writing space that day. Is it pristine or looking like a paper tornado just blew through? Share those character sketches that didn't quite make the final draft. Post the fascinating historical tidbit that sparked your current manuscript.
Social media and mailing lists aren't billboards for your book. They're conversations. Treat them like a cozy café where you're chatting with your most interesting friends. Some days you'll have big news, and some days you'll just be sharing a particularly excellent cup of Darjeeling.
Consider creating a few recurring features that give your readers something to anticipate: a monthly “research corner” where you share an intriguing historical detail, a “writer's soundtrack” post about what you're listening to while drafting, or an update on “characters who are driving me bonkers this week" that gives a cheeky glimpse into your creative process.
Remember, authenticity trumps perfection every single time. Your readers don't want a polished press release; they want a real human being who happens to write books. So be that human. Be messy, be curious, be occasionally ridiculous.
Perhaps you could hold a Q&A with your characters. Were you inspired by some photos you took on your last vacation? Did you love or hate the cliffhanger of a popular TV show? The chances are that your audience will be interested in many of the same things you are, so strike up a conversation about the latest show on Netflix. Talk about your favourite books. Recall funny stories about your trip to the store.
And if you are uncomfortable sharing personal information—or have a pen name—create a persona that shares your stories, news, and musical tastes instead. If you’re comfortable with it, use AI to create imaginary places. Be honest about your process, e.g., “I put my character descriptions into an AI bot, and this is what it produced.” Then ask your readers if they agree. Create quizzes, a Spotify playlist, or even an old-fashioned digital mixtape. You get the idea.
And for the love of all that's literary, have fun with it. If you're not enjoying the conversation, neither will your fans.
Happy writing,
Indie Annie
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