Thank you for sharing all of this. My thoughts run along the same lines. I've been on social media since well before my first book even sold, and while I do think some social platforms helped me have a small, initial audience, it's always been true that the majority of social media followers won't buy your book. And now, that majority is even more overwhelming. I used to think 10% getting your book was really good. Now...maybe 5% is good? Less? Certainly FAR less on Twitter.
Certainly, authors have understood for a long time that it's a mistake to rely on our social media feeds for anything. Sometimes we can get lucky and have a post or video go viral, but that's not reliable! And it doesn't always lead to sales. Sigh...
Re: Shrinking: I also just watched this and loved it! I immediately loved Gaby because of her emotional support water bottle. All the characters are wonderful, though. The whole show just felt so warm and caring.
As possibly the only person on earth to have joined Twitter in 2023, I feel the pain. Also, I’m excited to finish season 1 of Shrinking before my Apple TV free trial runs out! It’s such a clever show.
Excellent article and so true, thank-you
Thank you for sharing all of this. My thoughts run along the same lines. I've been on social media since well before my first book even sold, and while I do think some social platforms helped me have a small, initial audience, it's always been true that the majority of social media followers won't buy your book. And now, that majority is even more overwhelming. I used to think 10% getting your book was really good. Now...maybe 5% is good? Less? Certainly FAR less on Twitter.
Certainly, authors have understood for a long time that it's a mistake to rely on our social media feeds for anything. Sometimes we can get lucky and have a post or video go viral, but that's not reliable! And it doesn't always lead to sales. Sigh...
Re: Shrinking: I also just watched this and loved it! I immediately loved Gaby because of her emotional support water bottle. All the characters are wonderful, though. The whole show just felt so warm and caring.
Honestly, I also got fashion inspiration from Shrinking, although in my case it was H. Ford.
Great post, Kathleen. If publishers refuse to build their own audience, they will always be at the mercy of others.
As possibly the only person on earth to have joined Twitter in 2023, I feel the pain. Also, I’m excited to finish season 1 of Shrinking before my Apple TV free trial runs out! It’s such a clever show.
Necessary piece