By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills
A writer focuses on every skill connected to this wonderful world of publishing. This means stepping into the waters of social media to build community and meet reader needs. Sometimes writers approach building an online platform with groans, excuses, and do-I-have-to’s? Mistakes happen and disappointment sets in. But with a few tips and instruction, writers learn how to master social media.
This blog is to help you succeed not fail at social media.
Non-responsive is the biggest culprit that contributes to social media failure.
The list below is short and simple. But if you’re guilty of any of the following 5, now is the time to mend your ways.
- Writers who don’t take the time to thank, address, or value those who comment on our blog. These people are the ones who support us. They’ve taken the time to read our blog and type a response.
- Writers who don’t respond to e-mails. I’m not talking about junk and spam. But I am referring to readers who contact us with a question or comment. If the message is critical, then form a gracious response. If the sender is requesting you to perform a service, then respond appropriately.
- Writers who ignore comments on Facebook. No matter what is posted on your personal or author page, the sender deserves a “like” at a minimum. Be creative and allow that person to know you appreciate the time spent in creating a message.
- Writers who don’t check Goodreads. If your blog is linked to your Goodreads Page, then there are readers who comment.
- Writers who ignore new Twitter followers. When you receive a new follower, do you take time to address them personally and thank them for the follow? Do you search for a post on the follower’s page that you can like or share? Do you read the new follower’s bio and make a comment?
- Writers who fail to message and thank new followers on Instagram.
The one way to end your social media success is to do nothing when others value what we’ve posted. Let’s share our knowledge and show our followers we care.
How do you manage your social media comments?
The one way to end your social media success is to do nothing when others are curious and inquisitive. Let’s help 
each other. How do you manage your social media comments?
DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. 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. Library Journal presented her with a Best Books 2014: Genre Fiction award in the Christian Fiction category for Firewall.
DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Suspense Sister, and International Thriller Writers. She is co-director of The Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference and The Author Roadmap 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.
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