IWSG - Marketing FAIL

Hey, gang! My Insecure Writer's Support Group (IWSG) is once again off the mark of the posting day due to to Rachel's interview on Wednesday. But Rachel rocks, so we're just going to roll with it. :)

Not familiar with the IWSG? It's basically a gaggle of writer types who blog once a month about the less-than-awesome aspects of what we do. Sometimes it's encouragement we offer each other, and other times (like in my case today), we just lament the things we suck at.

IWSG is open to all, and it's a fabulous way to connect with some kindred spirits. Click the button below for more info:

Marketing FAIL

Okay, in this day and age of Internet buzz and general overstimulation of the masses, there's not much more useful of a tool for an author to have than good marketing skills. It seems like you're only as relevant as your last tweet, and more known for your Pinterest board shenanigans than your writing. 

Consequently, you need to be able to network. You need to let people know you exist, and more importantly, that your books exist. Standing out in the crowd isn't necessarily a good thing, it's a must thing. 

Problem: What do you do when you really just aren't that good at, or enthused about, celebrating ME?

Don't get me wrong, I fully understand the premise of marketing. I TOTALLY get why it's a good thing. But 99% of the time I live in this fairytale land where readers find you because other readers like you, and unicorns dance with dragons below a crimson harvest moon.

Maybe it's just my farming roots showing, but I kind of just want to plant a seed, make sure it gets plenty of sunlight and the water nature gives it, and then watch it grow into a big ol' fruit tree. Then, in a few years, I'll stretch out on the porch, eat those damned fine peaches, and say, "I remember when I planted that seed!"

I told you it was a fairytale land... it's like one of those Werther's Originals commercials. Except I'd probably have an adult drink in my hand and be laughing maniacally as my Amazon rank skyrocketed. :) 

Anyway, today I felt like giving an ode to those of us who market to the best of our abilities--and still hate and suck at it. Below, you'll find some buttons I've made for the marketing failures--like moi--out there to wear like the champions of ineptitude we are. Share them and rejoice!

More importantly, have a fantastic weekend. :)

~EJW~