Hindsight is 20/20: My Marketing Misstep and the Snowball Effect

I've learned a valuable lesson and its building an audience should start long before your project or product hit the shelves.

I'll admit, I made this rookie mistake. When I embarked on my this journey just over a year ago, my focus was solely on crafting the a cohesive story. Marketing was an afterthought, something I figured I'd tackle once the book was finished. Now with my debut novels finally is done, I realize the missed opportunity.

Building a readership is like creating a snowball. It starts small, with a few dedicated followers who believe in your work. But as you consistently share your journey, engage with your audience, and offer glimpses into your creative process, that snowball starts to gain momentum. By now when the book launches, it's not just a product; it's the culmination of a shared experience.

Had I started building my platform/personal brand a year ago, I'd have a community eagerly awaiting for my book's release. I could have fostered relationships with potential reviewers, influencers, and bookstores. My marketing efforts wouldn't feel like an uphill battle; they'd be fueled by the excitement of an engaged audience.

But as the old saying goes, the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is today.

So, I'm taking action. I'm sharing my journey, connecting with readers, and building that snowball, one flake at a time. It may take longer than I'd hoped, but I'm committed to the process.

This experience has taught me the importance of long-term vision. Marketing isn't just a launch strategy; it's an ongoing conversation with your readers. It's about nurturing relationships, building trust, and creating a community that will support your work for years to come.

Learn from my misstep. Start building your platform now. Share your passion, connect with your audience, and plant the seeds for a thriving readership. Remember, the best time to start was yesterday, but the second best time is today.