Hi everyone, and welcome back to my page. I’m Marcella. I’m currently revising my first draft of a historical romantasy based on gods and secrets. I also started a new project (because I’m a writer, and clearly can’t help myself) about a small town contemporary romance. So two very different sides of the romance genre! But I’ve been loving every second.
As I’ve learned, a large part of breaking into the writing/author/publishing world is having a presence on social media. What I didn’t realize was how hard that actually would be. I am a chronic onliner. I go on social media multiple times a day using a variety of platforms. Partly to learn, and partly because I’m nosy and I want to see what the latest drama in the local Facebook mom group is. I’ve spent time using social media before for content creation, but not like this. This is a totally different ball-game, and it’s a bit daunting. Speaking to a camera is difficult; especially as someone who tends to ramble. But rambling doesn’t do well on social media, and videos need to be short and precise. Plus, different things work for different platforms. Some posts do better on Instagram than on TikTok and vice versa. The algorithm is constantly changing, and trends are constantly evolving. It’s hard to keep up.
I’ve also noticed trends in times that people tend to be on social media more. I tend to get more views later in the day versus in the morning. But I still feel like I’m missing something. I don’t know how to put my finger on it. I don’t necessarily want to be an influencer. I also don’t have the “expertise” to be a content creator. I don’t want to be a teacher again. Really in any regard. So what is the balance? How do I get people to follow along on the publishing journey when “busy mom/parent and fitting writing time in when I can” is already all over? I know I’m not the only mom/parent to write a book. I know I’m not the only one to chase their dream of published author. So what do I have that makes me stand out? What can I bring that is different? This is the reflection I need to do.
Sure, social media is a time suck. I know this. I know social media isn’t the main goal. Publishing is. But if this is an expected part of the stream, then I’m going to give it my all. Besides, if I”m being 100% honest, I kind of like the social media piece. I don’t care that I’m not going viral. Okay maybe I care a little bit. But I just want to grow, and bring something to the table. I’m just still figuring out what that it.
If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading my rant on social media. If you have any recommendations, please let me know in the comments.
x Marcella
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