I’ve shared that interaction with a number of authors working toward publication — and I’ve never shared the name of the author or series, because of exactly what you were saying in this blog post. Interestingly enough, another author who was a pleasant person to wait in line for an autograph from, didn’t keep that “positive somatic marker” when the quality of their writing dropped — and I no longer wait for their next book. 🙁

I definitely agree with the fun part! And with everything you said, really. Thanks for your help and for sharing your expertise on this topic, Kristen. I’ll go check out your book and learn ?

I have ZERO social media presence specifically because of the concepts you discuss here. Not only because of what I might say, but also because of the fallout of association. I noticed that an author can say something perfectly reasonable in a post or tweet, but then somebody will come along with a toxic response. I found myself associating the author with that toxic response, even though it wasn’t theirs. I kind of felt ashamed of that, but I paid attention to it. Just being touched by toxicity harms the brand.

The only place you will find me is on my blog site. That’s it. And it is 99% flash fiction and short stories. It’s not a strong brand, I know. But I’ve seen real damage done to many big names by simply engaging with the public. Whatever opinions we have are best left to the themes of our stories. And that’s another thing I discovered. Somebody can say something that really makes my blood boil, but if they do it in a well-told story, I’m more apt to say, “Well, they have a point. That’s kind of interesting.” Because they took the time to entertain me while they’re giving me their opinion. Huge difference in brand impression. (Note – you gotta’ tell me a good story. Propaganda and story-telling are two different things.)

Even here, responding to one of my favorite thought leaders, I’m cognizant of what I’m saying and how it might affect a fan or a potential fan. I have a small audience at this very moment. What are they going to think of me after they read this and move on to the next comment? If they don’t remember me, that’s way better than being that guy who said something that made them feel icky.

But your main point here, one that I hadn’t really thought of and seems so obvious and makes so much sense once you realize it – well, thank you for that. And it is: Speak with love, not hate. Yeah. I like that. Good stuff. Best branding advice ever.

Most definitely. Apologies for hawing my book, but a few dollars can save a ton of trouble and wasted money. Most authors don’t know how to first identify their potential audience and then create content perfect for attracting them. I need you speaking to your potential audience (code for ‘readers’) and not other writers. We authors tend to unintentionally do a lot of activities that is largely a lot of marketing to other authors and we already have too many books and are a relatively small population. So yes, in Rise of the Machines I show you how to find and cultivate a following of future readers.

And really you are fine, since digital shelf space is forever and once you get going then readers can discover new works and old. My book gives a nice step-by-step. You don’t have to be tech savvy and it definitely works. I teach you not only how to build the brand without changing your personality, but I make it doable and FUN. If it isn’t FUN we won’t do it. Your brand will grow and evolve as you grow and evolve and with minimal upkeep. Most writers already hav full time jobs and a family then the writing. The last thing we need is another full time job in marketing.

The date expired while I was ill. It is available now. Thanks for letting me know and hope you will enjoy it.