Real Neat Blog Award

Guess what friends; I have been nominated for another blogging award. I am so happy that my blogging friend rniks24I14 nominated me.

According to the rules, I’m supposed to answer 7 questions. I will respond to the questions posted on https://rniks24l14.wordpress.com/2016/12/27/real-neat-blog-award/.

1. Why did I start blogging?

I have been journaling and writing for myself for many years until I stumbled upon blogging. I thought it would be great to share my life, passions, and love of writing with others.

2. Who do I love the most in my life?

My family as a whole they are important to me. My love extends beyond my immediate bloodline. I love ALL   people!!! We were left with one commandment, and it was to Love each other. What if you had no family? Would your love cease to exist?

3. Who is your oldest friend with whom you want to spend the most time?

I would also say myself… It’s important to me as I age to take inventory of my accomplishments and continue to re- evaluate myself. One of my fears is becoming stagnate. I want to reach all the goals I set out for myself and continue to grow as a person. I would hate to look back later in life and say… What if? I should have. I could have. If only I would have.

4. What are your extracurricular activities?

Writing, social media marketing, reading, cooking, shopping with my sister, continuing education. I would love to do more traveling in a few years.

5. In which country do I dream to live?

I have been to a few countries, but America is the place I want to be for right now. I always have wanted to live in Canada. So who knows, if our government can’t get their act together then Canada here I come.

6. What would I say about how the world treats women?

This question deserves a full post!!! (Laughing) It is definitely despicable the way women are viewed in American society. Despite the fact that women have come a long way from back in the 40’s and 50’s we are still not equal. Although, we also have to look at the way we present ourselves in society. When you offer sex as your self-image, then that’s what you will be seen as. When you sell yourself into oppression to the highest bidder than wear your chains with pride. If you are strong, independent and can carry the same load as your male counterpart than hold your head high and never fold. Society should and must treat us as equals, and we should all eat an equal serving from the same plate.

7. A few words to the person who nominated you.

Dear https://rniks24l14.wordpress.com,

I want to thank you for following my blog. It is a pleasure to accept your nomination for the “Real Neat Blog Award.” As I read through your acceptance after being nominated your words gave me insight into you as a person. There is nothing in life that you can not accomplish. You are on the right track! Remain confident and steadfast, and you will accomplish all of your dreams. The word “Can’t” should be erased from your vocabulary, and if anyone ever says otherwise, they are not worthy to be in your life. I wish you much success in your blogging and everything you set out to do in life. Always feel free to say hello!!! J

 

The envelope, please!!! My nominations are…

 

Solsbury Hill

 

Wendy Macdonald

 

Kristen Twardowski

 

Scribbled Verse

 

Congratulations to all the nominees. I look forward to reading your posts.

 

5 Tips for Marketing Your New Book.

“Writing a book without promoting it is like waving to someone in a dark room. You know what have you done, but nobody else does.”
~Madi Preda.”   ― Madi Preda, How To Promote and Market Your Book

Congratulations on writing your first book. As an author, you must be on top of the world. You have basked in the joy of your new accomplishment. The beauty of its cover, your words, pieces of the world you created. Now. It is time to get serious.

What’s next? My research has given me the knowledge to assist you in marketing your book. What good is a book that no one gets to read? The next step is to get the book in front of prospective readers. The most efficient way is through creating a marketing strategy. Thorough research will reveal several marketing methods. Take a look at a few of the steps in the journey.

1). Reviews: As an author feedback is valuable. This is where reviews come into play. Consider the options for free or paid reviews. Only pay for top quality feedback. Determine if your reviewer will base their comments on reading the book in full or an excerpt. Your ultimate goal is to make sure it is beneficial to you. Every author desires raving reviews and high recommendations.

2). Blog Posts: Guest posts and interviews on blogs is another way to build a fan base. You may also start a blog centered around the subject of your book. Your blog may be the forum for your future books. Be sure to follow the blogs of like- minded writers.

3). Media Kit: How many business or post cards have you passed out? Advertise locally as well as virtually the more exposure, the better your chances for sales. Keep in mind; image is everything! A professional head shot is necessary. Your biography will invite readers to get to know the books creator. Don’t forget to include a ‘one- sheet.’ A high-quality photo of your book cover on the front and a synopsis of the book on the back.

4). Book Launch Party: A book launch party is not only a way to celebrate your accomplishments but an awesome way to get the word out. Offer giveaways or reduced prices for the date of the event. The event can take place both locally and online. The more excitement you build means, the higher potential for buyers.

5). Social Media: We are in the age where the click of the ‘send’ button moves at a speed of light. Millions of people have the opportunity to view your content on a daily basis which means book sales. Although, sales should not be your primary focus. Build a relationship with fellow authors and writers. Support those with the same goals and those aspiring to reach the depths that you have in the literary arena. Social media marketing makes sense regarding book marketing. Embrace it and reap the many benefits.

Now that your feet are firmly back on the solid ground, and your head is no longer in the clouds, put in the footwork. Start doing the research and making all the needed connections. It may be difficult but all of your efforts will pay off.

 

 

 

A Shout Out to My Blogging Comrades.

Many bloggers are avid readers and faithful followers of other blogs. As a blogger and social media coordinator, reading and commenting on the content of other bloggers is a natural part of my daily operations. I often share the posts of bloggers which consists of informative and entertaining information, authors of books and those who write about their lives. As we follow many blogs, there are some that we frequent more than others for one reason or another. Today, I will list some of my favorite blogs and a little information about the blog.

Two Drops of Ink a literary blog that provides informative writing advice for aspiring and established writers. I love that Two Drops of Ink is devoted to all types of literature. Publishing contributing posts from writers looking for exposure seasoned writers and authors. The vote of the 100 best websites for writers is evident when you visit the blog. Subscribe, contribute and ‘Like’ Two Drops of Ink on Facebook.

From Addict 2 Advocate the title of this site describes it’s primary purpose to the letter. Informative articles about dealing with addiction as an addict or a family member or a friend of an addict. As we all know addiction is a growing epidemic in the U.S. Marilyn Davis, counselors and recovering addicts take a serious topic and simplifies it for all people to grasp and understand. She sprinkles a little humor in her posts as well. You can join in on conversations via the blog or on Facebook.

A Disciples Journey, a new blog by Scott Biddulph.  It is about the trials and tribulations of living a good Christian life. He brings it to the forefront through scripture and referencing his personal struggles. This amazing writer shows his followers that we are not alone in our pursuit to live a life pleasing to God. Scott Biddulph is also the creator and editor of “Two Drops of Ink”.

Poetic Parfait is a ‘Poetic treat for the mind’. This site is great if you are a lover of poetry, looking for inspiration or wish to talk about poetry. She states, “This site is a haven for you to gain insights through poetry about love, connection, endurance, inspiration, health and more.” I bear witness that this is a true statement. Christy first started Poetic Parfait as therapy to get her through a dark period in her life. The site gave birth to two books. I have also had the pleasure of writing a piece for her When Women Inspire blog.

Opinionated Man/ Harsh Reality attracted me to the blog because of the title. I am very opinionated and reality at times can be quite harsh. I had to take the time to read what the ‘Opinionated Man’ had to say. J.C.C is a man that has a voice; he is not only opinionated, poetic and enlightening but inspirational. The opinionated man is worthy to be read.

On GobbledeGoox by Peter Giblett, you will find a mixture of posts about the subjects such as writing, social media, and blogging. The site is very informative. Peter shares his knowledge of these subjects in hopes of assisting others. If you are seeking advice as a blogger or social media, there are some informative articles to get you started.

Kitschy Chic Couture is for the ladies who love handbags. These are not just any handbag! If you are into handcrafted leather and fabric bags made with TLC, then this blog is an awesome site for you. Kitschy Chic blog takes you into the day and life of a designer. She also displays a wide variety of her creations.

Shehanne Moore is an author of ‘smexy historical romance’. Romance novels are not my first choice when I sit down to read, but the compelling story lines including jewel thieves and vikings are what grabs her readers. The unique way Shehanne Moore promotes and markets her blog and books is what sparked my interest. Every email notification of a blog post, interview, and new novel is a treat.

As bloggers, we should support each other. I not only love what I do, but I am also passionate about it. To pay homage to my craft, I support those who do what I do. Tweets, Facebook Likes, reblogging and comments are just a few ways I show love. Social media marketing/ management and writing are my main sources of income, but life is not always about the almighty dollar. How many writers or bloggers have you given a shout out lately? Where does your true passion lie? In the art or the pursuit to become the next famous author or a well paid blogger? The next time you sit down to create your next post, I encourage you to think about your fellow bloggers and take ten minutes to read and comment on their work.

 

Historical Essay: African American Heroes and why they fought for a country that abused them

Read this outstanding essay on “Two Drops of Ink”.

The Writer’s Journal – a Vital Tool

Peter Giblett has the information to keep us writers on our toes.

Why should I blog?

What are your reasons for blogging? I blog to educate, entertain and to promote my writing and the writings of others.

Memoir: Your Story, My Story, Our Stories

Learn how to write your memoir from Marilyn Davis. Read this and other informative articles on Two Drops of Ink.

Arcing, Enhancing, and Advancing the Memoir

Have you visited Two Drops of Ink? If not check out this article!!!

Writers, Bloggers and the Overlooked Press Releases

Why Aren’t My Press Releases Effective? 

Wondering why your press release is not working for you? Over my six years of virtual assisting career, I have noticed many incorrectly written and marketed press releases.

Entrepreneurs and writers fail to capture the attention of most readers with these inadequately worded and promoted press releases.

Due to my growing affiliation with the literary community, I’d like to share some tips to inform writers, authors and bloggers of the correct method for writing and marketing a press release.

With proper research and due diligence, anyone can create a good press release, giving your book, article or blog the exposure it needs.

What is a Press Release?

A press release is a written communication to announce something newsworthy.

While mainly targeted to news media, a press release may be used to target a particular audience. Press releases are presented as:

• A media release
• Press statement
• Video release

Why is a Press Release Important?

Are you seeking exposure? A press release is typically used to assist its users in gaining much-needed publicity.

Whether you’re an author, writer or a blogger, a press release is designed to alert its readers to your past, present, and future accomplishments such as:

• Announcing your blog to increase its page rank
• Promoting your upcoming book release
• When you write a guest post on a blog
• When your article is published in a magazine

Any time that you do something that warrants additional publicity is a good time for an expertly written and press release.

How To Market as a Writer and Blogger

How would a press release benefit an author, writer, and blogger? A press release would be beneficial to those in the literary community due to its ability to excite an audience.

When well-written and marketed, it gets noticed by many, and in turn, many of those readers choose to feature and promote the press release from other sites or publications.

A large number of views and reposts will increase book sales, blog traffic, and article views. The goal is to gain publicity for yourself, website or publication. Be sure to convey your message clearly and ensure it grabs your audience’s attention.

How To Resourcefully Market Your Press Release

When creating your press release ask yourself, “Who is my target audience”? Market to those who would enjoy your site, book or article.

A press release is used to build relationships with prospective readers, followers and customers. Be careful not to turn your press release into a sales pitch or advertisement. Instead, set out to educate and inform those who are or may be interested in what’s to come.

Optimization will help you in this process. Inserting keywords and phrases, as well as text links, will increase the value of your press release.

The probability of your press release being seen grows with strategic optimization. Optimization should include media and video.

Including images and video makes your press release more interesting while adding to its marketability.

Pictures of yourself, book cover, or video reviews and interviews are strategic tools you use in your press release. Be sure to use relevant and quality videos and images!

How Do I Correctly Create A Press Release?

To better assist you in creating a press release here is a complete outline. These tips describe how to create an effective press release.

Tips

1). Make your font professional: Times New Roman and Garamond are good for this.

2). Try to limit your press release to a single page.

3). Make it newsworthy, so it is reported by other websites.

3). Include: Photos, book, blog, interviews or article reviews

4). Add relevant links and be sure to optimize.

5). Post your press release on your website or blog.

6). The press release should be double- spaced with a white background.

What Should My Press Release Layout Include?

1). For “Immediate Release” or “Embargoed Until…”

• This phrase goes in the top left margin of your page. If choosing “Embargoed Until” be sure to include the future date of release.

2). Name, address (physical or web), and phone number.

• You may add an email address for future correspondence purposes.

3). Title of book, article or blog. Page count, price, ISBN.

4). A brief synopsis of the book, article or blog.

5). Short bio with any earned awards.

6). Reviews and recommendations.

7). Links to purchase books, view an article or blog.

Take some time today and look at the opportunities you have to promote through a press release any breaking news for your blog, book or guest postings.  You might just get the attention and rewards for this effort.

The Importance of Writing

When I was asked to write about “writing” I was immediately excited. My excitement was not just because I love to write, but because there were so many ways I could approach the subject of writing; all of which allowed me to be imaginative!

I chose the “importance of writing” because writing is an essential part of my life, whether it is my blog, expressing my thoughts and feelings to others, or in my professional field as a virtual assistant.

Writing is important because it gives us the ability to express a thought and deliver information, using words or symbols. In the simplest manner, writing is: words and symbols on paper.

We have grown considerably from the old way of jotting out letters, essays and greeting cards.

Writing is involved and evolving: we text, email and utilize blogging as well as other types of social media to get our messages out there for others. We now write on a MacBook, IPad, Laptop, and Smartphones.

Conveying the Important Information

Have you ever attempted to express an opinion or provide information about a subject but didn’t know where to begin? Outlining your ideas, thoughts seems like a daunting task for some; myself included some days.

However, if I begin by brainstorming and developing various aspects of my topic, I find I have a lot of information. Then I can begin to research all the diverse aspects of my subject and help me solidify my writing objectives.

What is The Important Objective in Writing?

The ultimate goal or objective of any writing is to ignite a particular reaction from the audience. The way in which you use the words in the composition determines the response of the reader. What response are you hoping to receive?

Whether writing to advertise, educate, deliver a speech or entertain; the way in which you choose to present the topic is important. Determine the type of audience you intend to attract.

Research and brainstorm any topic and write, just don’t forget to rewrite; it’s not as in-depth as you may think, and it pays off in the end.

Writing does not require you to be a creative genius or literary scholar. All you need is the ability to convey a thought or emotion in the form of words.

I often find myself writing articles, advertisements, call- to- actions, and blogs, for those who deem themselves incapable.

It is not that they don’t have the ability but that they don’t know where to start. Begin by writing down the subject matter of your composition that may consist of a compilation of thoughts, research and statistical data.

Once you have completed this process, you can start to build your final piece from there. My advice is to write from the heart even when including all other information.

My joy of writing comes when I write using my voice and emotions coupled with all other data.

And it’s that personal quality that makes my writing important to me; it’s authentic, easily understood by others and just maybe in time, it will have importance and give hope and encouragement to someone else to find the importance of writing.

Just Write!!!