To Follow–But How Far?

In the previous blog post, we covered some of the latest trends in publishing. Trends are not mandated rules for success, but they are worth at least considering if you want more attention on your book in a fluid industry—even if it is just one that speaks to you. 

One question, front and center, no matter which or how many trends you choose to engage in, is clear: how do you follow what’s popular while staying true to your own writing or style? It’s not easy, but the answer may be less complicated than you think. 

Take for one example the current trend of more audiobook releases. Readers with busy schedules or who like being able to multitask while reading a book are on the rise, and writers who offer the option of listening versus traditional reading are understandably being favored. How do you follow the trend of making an audiobook available to your readers while staying authentic to your original vision for the story? You make it your own!

Perhaps the most obvious solution to this would be narrating the book yourself—it makes sense, right? Who better to be the “voice” of your story than you, its author? You control the voice, tone, and matter in which your story is told, connecting with your book and readers on a new, more interpersonal level.

But if being on the microphone is not your style, consider who might best be fitted to tell your story. Ask people you know well who you trust to do your book justice, people you trust to handle your beloved characters and messages with care and respect. If you can’t think of anyone, here’s where social media networking with others in the industry comes in extremely handy. Be diligent in your research and make sure that if you pursue an audiobook, your input is prioritized throughout the process.

Speaking of social media, its impact on building a dedicated and engaged audience for authors is indisputable in this modern age. People from all walks of and stages in life are using social media to stay in touch with not only their personal world but the outside world as a whole—the news, fashion, and their interests. This level of connectivity sparks excitement about upcoming projects and releases in a way that more conventional marketing strategies do not. Authors and their readers are able to engage more freely and openly with each other, making the use of social media a highly favorable marketing outlet. 

But just because it is proven to be effective, does it mean that strategy is better? That is subjective and depends on who you ask. The same can be asked of any trend. You never know its effectiveness for you until you try, and if you are looking for ways to increase your book’s chances of success, you should seek proven avenues to do so in a way that best aligns with your unique goals and preferences.

How far should you go with trends, though? There’s only one person who can decide that–and the answer is in the question.

DG