Last week, Livia Blackburne (who is also a scientist by day), wrote this insightful post about why bloggers blog. It struck a chord with me, because I've thought about this since I began blogging.
Isn't the point of blogging to help you reach your audience? As Livia points out, platform logically applies to people who write non-fiction; people who are experts in a subject area and can easily reach their intended audience through a more personalized venue like a blog. And when they write a book? Their audience is already there. Chris Guillebeau at the Art of Non-Conformity is a terrific example.
But what about writers of fiction? Many of us seem to follow other writers. This is a terrific way to network and gain support from other writers, but are these the people who will buy your novels? To some extent, probably, since we need to read in the genre, but it's only a small portion of the intended audience.
So what should we blog about? Livia's follow-up post gives excellent insight into how to tailor your blog and your posts to your intended audience.
What do you think about blogging? Are you reaching the right audience?
I'll definitely have to get right over there and read her post because as not only a fiction writer but a picture book writer, I never feel like I'm reaching my audience. I love networking with other writers and I wouldn't want to trade that, but I would like to reach potential readers/book buyers!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Susanna. I think writers for young readers have a unique problem reaching our readers. Right now, reaching other writers works for me because we're all learning from and supporting each other. And I would definitely buy any book from the writers that I've really developed a relationship with. After all, we're all parents too, right?
ReplyDeleteOne thing I wonder is, how often, if at all, do parents of young children consult the blogosphere for book ideas for their kids? My guess is not very much...
My followers are an eclectic bunch, that's for sure! And I discovered an extension of my intended audience by blogging. Quite by accendent as well!
ReplyDeleteGreat post and thanks for the links. I've purchased Locke's book, but haven't had a chance to read it yet.
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