by DiAnn Mills @diannmills

Meeting reader needs can be a daunting task, which is one of the reasons why The Author Roadmap is dedicated to helping you be a success with social media while creating writing projects.

The following 7 items will help you reach out to your audience and cultivate valuable relationships. Note that every item is what you will do for your audience . . . not the other way around.

1. Dear reader, my goal is to build a friendship with you. I care about you, and I’m constantly working to answer your questions, inform, and entertain you.
2. The passion for my stories comes from a deep desire to provide a great book for you. Your encouragement is why I work hard to develop strong characters and an intricate plot.
3. You can trust me to stand firm on my brand. I’m a writer who is true to my promises. My books, blogs, and social media posts reflect my integrity.
4. You are important to me. My multiple daily posts are about how I can meet your needs. My promise to keep in touch is reliable. Leave comments, and I will respond.
5. Your input helps me be productive. I’m listening to your suggestions, questions, and advice.
6. We’re a team. No writer is ever alone. We need each other to walk this path called life.
7. What stories have influenced you? How can I best continue to serve you?

Your readers are priceless gems. Nurture and take care of them. Once a writer loses an audience, she may never get them back again.

What is one tip you can give writers about their target audience? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

At the Mountainside Marketing Conference, we will be focusing on meeting reader needs. Register now for Mountainside Marketing Conference scheduled for January 18-22, 2019.

DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She is a storyteller. Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests.

DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, Suspense Sister, and International Thriller Writers. She is co-director of The Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference and The Mountainside Marketing Conference with social media specialist Edie Melson. She teaches writing workshops around the country. DiAnn is active online and would love to connect with readers on any of the social media platforms listed at www.diannmills.com.