Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Writer as Marketer

The eWomen event I attended last week taught me some things. Not only is it a good idea to network, but also it is worth it to occasionally pay for a marketing table at an event.

The important thing about setting up your table is to be prepared in advance. I was able to easily create a colorful flyer using Word. It highlighted my writing skills. Of course, one should also have enough updated business cards handy. An introductory marketing speech that hits home is valuable. It is a bargain to share a table with someone else. I made signs that designated my portion of the table as mine.

I learned that it is good marketing to have something memorable for your potential clients to "take away." There are companies that make pens or other useful items with your logo or name on them, but it is best to be creative. In addition, something that stands up on the table and can be seen from far away is attractive. A fellow marketer had a eucalyptus scent wafting from her table that drew people there.

Finally, if you leave a book that might have your published works in it on the table, be sure to mark it as a sample, especially if you intend to sell copies. People think they are free to take.

Monday, September 20, 2010

eWomen

Today I am preparing for an eWomen networking event. eWomen is a business networking resource, and www.eWomenNetwork.com tells more about it.

I have participated in eWomen events before, but each time is different. My local chapter is changing with the times, to allow women to participate even in this poor economy.

Usually, a lunch or dinner is the meeting grounds for women (and men) to exchange information in the unique eWomen way. Tonight is an abbreviated version, a reception,which is less expensive. I have a marketing table there, and am sharing it, to make that affordable also.

The goal of eWomen is that we all help one another. And I quote, "We approach networking from a position of abundance, where giving to others leads to unlimited opportunities for all." This quoted information was sent to me via an eWomen network e-mail on September 19,2010.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Blogging

Well, here I am after a long hiatus. I met with someone who is well known in the blogging community: Mr. Bill Belew. He revived my blogging interest and taught me some information about how to blog successfully.

Bill's blogs can be seen at www.panasianbiz.com

Bill is an active member at South Bay Writers, the largest chapter of California Writers Club.
He also sends out newsletter updates and gives blogging workshops. To get more information, write him at Bill@BillBelew.com He is a respected professor and CEO.

Bill's next Meetup for Silicon Valley Blogger is on Thursday September 16. He will be a guest speaker at the Covenant Orthodox Presbyterian Church presenting "The Stories Chinese Characters Tell." RSVP to http://www.meetup.com/Silicon-Valley-Bloggers/calendar/14745253/