Karma

About karma: The good kind. You know what it is. And you know you’re going to need a lot of it. Because you’ll be asking many people for favors over the course of your book launch…

Will you read my book? Will you blurb it? Would you write a foreword? Would you like to buy a copy? How about a copy for a friend? Maybe one for your sister, too? Would it be OK to post my flyer here? Would you consider hosting a launch party for me? Could you help out with refreshments? Would you listen to my book talk rehearsal and give me your opinion? Would you consider publishing a guest post? Etc.

And of course the best way to be someone whom others are happy to help is to first be someone who is willing and eager to help others. (I’m writing this to myself as much as to other readers. It’s good to be reminded.) Here are some things you can do:

1. Write a short review of another author’s book for review sites. You can almost always find something positive to say about a book and even if you have some nits to pick, an honest appraisal is most believable—and therefore most helpful.
2. Or—even easier—give their book some “stars.” You don’t have to give all 5-star reviews; a 3-star review is way more helpful than none at all.
3. Maybe you’ve come across information that would benefit other authors: Share ideas about publication venues for story excerpts, awards contests that might be a good fit, or influential bloggers who review books in a particular genre.
4. Mention and support other authors on your social media platforms, and remember to provide links.

In other words, practice the Golden Rule: Do unto others as you’d like them to do unto you. And do it often. Author and speaking coach Betsy Graziani Fasbinder has produced a list of ways you can Support your Favorite Indie Authors, which I’m sharing here with her permission.