Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Social Media Marketing



Edie Melson has just released a new book essential for both seasoned and aspiring writers, Social Media Marketing for Writers.  I bought this resource and am certain to use it now and as a reference in the future as I continue to write.

Her book covers the essentials of social media, including the reasons for using it, finding a focus for your blog and what causes a blog succeed or fail.  Step by step, she teaches us how to create and maintain a blog. 

But she doesn’t stop there.  Instead, she gives us the tools we need to increase our audience and increase our marketing by navigating Twitter, Tweetdeck, and Facebook as well as tying it all into Amazon.  Last week I had the opportunity to interview her regarding this project. 

When did you start writing?

I actually wrote my first book—long hand—in the 8th grade.  I began my formal writing career as a technical writer in the 80’s then had kids and began writing again seriously as they grew up.

What is your reason or passion for continuing to write?

I like to quote Isaac Asimov on this one.  “I write for the same reason I breathe; if I didn’t I’d die.

How did you learn about social media?  Did you take a class, read a book or just figure it out yourself?

I came into it quite by accident.  You could even say it was a sink or swim situation.  I accepted a job as a managing editor at a Christian magazine for college age men.  Everyone I worked with was young enough to be my son—and social media is the only way to reach that audience.  I had to become an expert or quit my job. 

What made you decide to write about it?

With my success came a huge sense of accomplishment.  It’s become one of my passions to show others that social networking is NOTHING to be afraid of.  If I can do it, ANYONE can!

What do you think the future of social media holds for writers?

Great question!  While I don’t think anyone can predict the future, I do think it’s exciting to think about where this trend is headed.

I think social media and writers are a match made in heaven.  Writing is all about building relationships—with readers, editors, agents, and other writers.  What better vehicle is there than social media?  It’s tailor made for writers.  After all, we communicate best through the written word.  And it gives us an unprecedented opportunity to connect with our readers. 

Edie Melson is a freelance writer and editor with over 16 years experience in the publishing industry. She’s a prolific writer, having published over 700 articles in 2010. She also has a popular writing blog (www.thewriteconversation.blogspot.com) and is a frequent contributor to many others. In keeping up with the leading edge of all things digital Edie has become known as one of the go-to experts on Twitter, Facebook, and social media for writers wanting to learn how to plug in. Get your copy for only 99 cents on Kindle or Nook,

Fighting Fear, Winning the War at Home, is one of Edie’s latest projects. This devotional book for those with family members in the military will debut in fall of 2011 with Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas http://www.christiandevotionsbooks.com/ 
Edie is a member of numerous professional writing organizations, including The Christian Pen, The Christian Writer’s View I and ACFW. She’s also an assistant copy editor for the Voices E-zine, a publication of My Book Therapy and a part of the My Book Therapy Special Teams Blog.
Married 30 years to husband, Kirk, they have raised three sons.





























``

No comments: