Are You Giving Away Too Much?

As authors, we often feel that in order to get people to read what we have written that we have to give away the whole cow. But haven't you heard the old saying, "why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free?" This doesn't just apply to relationships, it applies to your book and your business as well.

Yes, in this business you will find yourself giving away a few books in order to increase your readership. But there are other things that you can give to your readers that will be just as valuable, and will make them want to buy your book.

One thing you can give is advice. New authors are always seeking advice from those who have already published a book. You can give advice, but don't be taken advantage of. Just like you had to learn it, you should require some work to be done on behalf of the one seeking the advice. If they ask you for help, offer to give it with the stipulation that they do something in return. Have them email you their questions, or join you on facebook, or follow you on twitter. Don't just give, qualify everyone that comes to you to ensure that they are not just using you for your information. Truth be told, these people that come to you for free advice, will nine times out of ten, turn around and charge someone to give them this same advice. Be wise.

You can share your knowledge in classes and workshops that center around the subjects of writing and publishing, but charge a small fee, or investment as it is often called in the business world. Investments often separate the real from the fake. It will let you know who is serious and who is just out to waste your time.

If you are going to give away some books, be sure that it is for a good reason. For instance, if you contact a book club, offer to send the owner a free book. This way, you have only lost money on the one book should the club decide to decline on reading the book, versus trying to butter up the group by giving free copies to every member and have them decide not to read it. I have heard of authors that have done this and have been hurt in the end when the book was not even a chosen read for the club.

You can offer free gifts with purchase, which in turn will encourage people to purchase your book. Don't just give away books for the sake of doing so. You can't make money that way. Though you may be passionate about the craft, isn't it nice to earn money while doing something you love?

The bottom line is: be wise in the information that you share with others, especially when it comes to you and the product that you sell, be it books, Avon, whatever. You have to decide when to give of yourself, and how much to give. Being wise will keep you from getting burned in the end.

Until next time,

~Sandra~