When creating an author mailing list, it’s not all about size. It is not simply a matter of throwing every technique you can at it in the hope of getting the maximum number of e-mails. While you might be able to get more subscribers in the short-run this way, in the long-haul this will actually create more problems. Read on and we’ll look at three common mistakes that authors often make in a bid to quickly swell their numbers and platform…
Giving Away the Wrong Freebie
Giving away freebies as incentives is a great way to encourage more people to sign up to your list but it can also create problems. In particular, if you give away something that is ‘too good’ then you can attract subscribers who are only interested in getting free things… this can discourage them when it comes time for you to sell your newest book!
On the other hand , if you give away an ebook or report that is sub-par, then you’ll risk demonstrating to your subscribers that you don’t deal with quality. This can also discourage them from purchasing your books.
Not Getting Targeted Subscribers
Similarly problematic is not trying to correctly target your subscribers. In other words, if you are giving away a product that isn’t in your niche or wouldn’t be interested in your book genre, then they won’t be your target demographic. A list of random e-mails will be of no benefit to sell your book, so do try to find people who will actually be interested in what you have to say. Better yet, try to develop a relationship with them first via content or social marketing.
Doing Everything Yourself
Many writers want to do everything themselves as a way to save money. That and your typical author is naturally a control freak. But by doing everything yourself you will not only waste valuable time but you will also risk doing a worse job than a professional would have done. Need a web design made but don’t have the eye for detail? Hire a designer.
Avoid these three mistakes and your list and authornplatform will grow faster and be more relevant as a result!
