I am sure most writers, readers, and authors alike are aware of the Goodreads universe. An endless summer reading list is just waiting to be created. But, do you know how to properly use your account as an author, especially to market yourself?
Goodreads is a perfect platform for authors to engage with readers and fans, and here is how you can make the most of it!
Make sure you are on the Goodreads Author Program.
This will allow you to gain access to special marketing tools to promote your books and interact with readers. Read more about this program here.
Customize your bio.
Your bio is the first thing a reader sees when going to your page. It is your job to make sure you put the best information out there. Make sure your profile picture is clear, give a good description of yourself, and attach your other socials so they can follow you! Goodreads gives some of their own very helpful tips here.
Share your love of reading.
Don’t forget this website was created so people could share their love for reading, so make sure you do the same! Write your own reviews and add books to your “Want to Read” list. You can also shelve books that have inspired your own writing, or you can customize your own shelves.
Create Kindle notes and Highlights.
Goodreads has a special opportunity to allow annotators to provide thoughts and insights on books. This is a great way for authors to engage deeper with their readers and let them in on why you chose a specific word, or go deeper into what a character is thinking. The opportunities are endless, and everyone loves an exact background story. https://f.gr-assets.com/misc/1564523884-1564523884_goodreads_misc.pdf
Turn on the “Ask the Author” feature.
Allowing readers to ask questions specifically to the author is great for engagement. The questions will not be visible until the author answers. However, by posting a few standard questions allows readers to see them when they reach your page. Learn more about this feature here.
Goodreads is a great platform for authors to connect to a specific community of readers. Don’t forget the power of communication!
HR,
Love it. I will add this to mu author tools.
So, I went on your site to look at publications. It looks like you work with established authors who already have a fan base and sales? Is that correct? I had Chronolocity: A Fistful of Chronotons on Create Space just so I could have copies to Beta Readers and begin the fanbase. I have since pulled it from Create Space to update, edit, and prepare for the next steps. I have my query, synopsis, full manuscript, ready. What more would you need to start the investigation into publishing with you?
Thanks,
Gary