Jennifer Fusco is the guest in this episode of The Author Biz.
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When I say marketing, what’s the first thing that pops into your mind?
Is it positive, or negative?
Jennifer Fusco
Most authors aren’t in love with marketing. For many it’s a chore. Something that has to be done, rather than something they enjoy. Writers want to write, not market. But marketing is something that must be done if an author wants her work to be found in today’s world.
My guest in this episode is Jennifer Fusco. She’s a marketing professional with over a decade of experience at one of the largest companies in the world. She’s also a romance writer, with her first book coming out this fall. But for our purposes today she’s the author of the newly released book, MARKET OR DIE – A Down and Dirty Guide to Marketing Your Book.
Jennifer says that “Marketing is about building relationships. And those relationships will generate demand for you and your work.” That’s it.
Jennifer has the unique ability to take the tried and true fundamentals of sound marketing strategy and translate them into something that’s understandable, and actionable for authors at every level.
We’re spending the entire 49 minutes of this interview talking about marketing for authors. Some highlights include:
Jennifer shares the background for her book, MARKET OR DIE.
Jennifer translates her 14 years of experience in corporate marketing for General Electric into a guide book of marketing strategy for authors.
We discuss the value of a sound and effective marketing plan.
Jennifer shares her thoughts on author branding, which she describes as “This is who I am, and this is what my books are about.”
She offers specific examples of authors who brand themselves particularly well.
We discuss the importance of doing a SWAT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) for your author business.
Jennifer describes the process of performing an Author Landscape Analysis.
When thinking of competition for your books, think outside of just books, to games, movies and other forms of entertainment.
Jennifer believes that investing in discoverability is more important than investing in specific promotions for individual books.
A discussion of the Sphere of Influence of an author, and you can expand it.
Jennifer offers some great advice optimizing your email list, through segmentation.
Links:
Purchase Market or Die at Amazon
Jennifer’s website www.MarketOrDie.net
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Before getting into the business of writing I spent twenty-five years in the technology business as a financial guy, and then as a serial entrepreneur. I know what it takes to start and run a successful business.
I love listening to your podcasts! The subjects and content are so informative and helpful. Grace
Thanks, Grace! Both for listening and for letting me know. I’m so very glad you find them helpful.
I’m greatly attracted to the idea of “discoverability,” the long-term approach. It supports those of us for whom Life is writing, and probably discourages the dabblers. I need all the encouragement I can get to see the big picture. Thanks, Stephen and Jennifer.
I’m with you PJ. Way too much time and attention is spent on selling the current book, today. Too little time is spent planning for a long and fruitful career. Thanks for listening and for sharing your thoughts.