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.