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| my comfy corner |
What’s the Reader/Author relationship? Is there something beyond seller and buyer? Isn’t it just someone writing a story from their imagination and then a stranger picking it up?
Have I already done this topic? No, don’t believe so. I’m talking today more about the actual relationship and not how to develop one. This isn’t to say everything I have already spoken on doesn’t also apply here, of course it does.
Once you have this delicate relationship – writers remember it’s far easier for you to lose readers than to find new authors – there is maintenance and behaviour on the authors’ part.
Let me repeat – authors (and I am one) you cannot stop a reader from reading or even reviewing your book. BUT, you can stop them from wanting to.
Not being able to stop them from reading or reviewing or even talking about you. Talking about their experiences with you, their interactions with you. If you’re not careful this can all start the blemishes on you reputation.
Hey, I hear you…how does one voice matter. Really, I need to explain this? In this day and age one voice can reach hundreds or even thousands in a second. Will it be a shine or a blemish on you?
I know – but those who know me will stand by me…even defend me. Sure. And that paints an even different picture…think gang up.
It’s one thing for them to defend and rally against someone for not being all pumped up about your news, for not being completely positive (a tad negative or even just, eh) let alone someone who may be out and out dumping on you. You need to remember your reputation should always start and stop at your actions no matter who’s watching or commenting.
Look, there’s something we authors have all done – posted pics of our covers for comments or asked for reviews or comments to be left at a vendors. No problem.
Except…and you knew there was an except coming…then we go all (a) upset cause the reaction wasn’t what we wanted, or, (b) downright angry.
Well, it’s our own dang fault.
We’ve asked for something with no idea of what their answer would be. Think lawyers…never ask a question you don’t know the answer. And when it comes to readers…every answer is the correct answer whether authors want to hear it or not.
The one thing everyone’s got?
An opinion.
And it’s your reaction, your behaviour, your lead which will make that opinion count (hopefully in your favour).
Relationship? It’s the one we want and it’s probably the most one-sided relationship we’ll ever work to maintain and grow.