The following from Rob Eagar and his blog at Wildfire Marketing: http://wildfiremarketing.blogspot.com/2009/06/social-networking-unlocking-behavioral.html
Social media is getting all of the hype these days. Yet, it’s struggling as a medium to actually create significant books sales. For example, at BEA 2009 last month, John Sargent, the CEO of Macmillan Publishing stated, “Viral marketing doesn’t sell a ton of books.” He said a video based on a Macmillan book spent time in the number-one spot on YouTube in the U.K.—and wound up selling a whopping 200 extra copies. So what works? Most CEOs agreed front-of-store displays can boost sales.
Now, I’m not knocking social networking…just don’t forget about the tried-and-true methods for authors to spread a message, such as public speaking, newsletters, personal networking, alliances, etc.
As for the behavioral disorders that social networking can cause authors, check out this insightful article, Why I Kissed FaceBook Goodbye, from Anne Jackson, author of Mad Church Disease.
Alan,
Thanks for the link to my blog post about social media and book marketing. Your “marketing gravity” philosophy trumps the social media hype any day of the week. I think every author should read your books, “Money Talks” and “Million Dollar Consulting” to get a better grasp of effective self-marketing.
Happy Father’s Day – and Grandfather’s Day with the twins!
Rob Eagar
Thanks, Rob. My first “Father’s Day and Grandfather’s Day”!
and thanks for linking to my article!
You’re welcome!