Creating a marketing plan
As a writer, I think a lot about the various stages of writing.
I describe the time spent in these various stages in this way:
Creative Process (the writing, plotting, world-building and character-creation) – 10% of the time.
Editing Process (drafts after the first, grammar and spelling, refining of language and pace, checking character arcs, checking symbol recurrence, refining detail, working with editor and publisher) – 40% of the time
Marketing Process (interacting with publisher, launches and readings, selling books, book fairs, social media, advertising, writing blurbs and press releases) – 50% of the time.
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I am a planner, a bit surprised to say I have never created a plan for the marketing of my books. So this will be the next step in my writing career.
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A little research has given me the main ingredients of a Marketing Plan:
- a summary for reference – pulls together the main points of the plan and states my marketing goals
- identification of customers – who they are and where to find them
- development of a unique selling point – a way to separate your product from others
- a pricing strategy – price of your product and timing of offers
- a distribution plan – how customers will buy from you
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In the next few weeks, I will think about and write down these components as they relate to my products: my books and paintings.
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Have you ever created a marketing plan and did it help you to meet your goals?
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Copyright Jane Tims 2018
nichepoetryandprose 
I did~well, it is a continuing process. I found it very helpful in crystallizing my vision. I used a book called, “The Right Brain Business Plan”, and found that very helpful AND enjoyable.
I really like your paintings, and the books you wrote look really wonderful.
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melissabluefineart
April 26, 2018 at 10:55 am
Hi. I think I’ll have a look at the book, looks like it’s made for artists. I think you’d like my book ‘within easy reach’ … all about wild edible plants and eating local food. Thanks! Jane
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jane tims
April 26, 2018 at 1:56 pm
That sounds pretty great~
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melissabluefineart
April 30, 2018 at 11:44 am
Hi. I finished the first draft of my marketing plan and have a few ideas and priorities. Jane
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jane tims
May 3, 2018 at 2:39 pm
I’ve never created a marketing plan, but it sounds like a good idea.
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Sheryl
April 19, 2018 at 11:40 pm
Hi. Just doing my taxes was instructive; I just ignore things like exchange rates and I need to have a realistic idea of what my books cost me versus how much I make from sales. I never hope to break even but I should know the truth and aim my small efforts in the right direction! Thanks, Jane
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jane tims
April 25, 2018 at 10:21 am