Month: February 2023

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Build A Successful Blogging Career For Yourself

February 19 , 2023 Samarpita Mukherjee Sharma
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Blogging can be a fulfilling and lucrative career for those with a passion for writing and sharing their ideas, knowledge, and experiences with a wide audience. It involves creating and regularly updating a website or blog platform where you can publish articles, videos, images, and other forms of content. There are many different niches within the blogging world, ranging from fashion and lifestyle to technology and finance. As a blogger, you can monetize your platform through advertising, affiliate marketing, sponsored content, and other means. Success as a blogger often depends on developing a strong following, building a personal brand, and creating high-quality content that provides value to your readers.

Also Read: The Creative Writing Process

Steps To Begin Blogging As A Career

  1. Choose your niche: Select a topic or area of interest that you are knowledgeable about and passionate about. This will help you create content that is engaging and relevant to your target audience.
  2. Set up a blog: Choose a blogging platform such as WordPress, Blogger, or Squarespace, and set up your blog with a custom domain name, design, and layout.
  3. Create quality content: Start writing blog posts that provide value to your audience and establish your expertise in your chosen niche. Ensure that your content is well-researched, well-written, and visually appealing.
  4. Build an audience: Promote your blog on social media, participate in online communities related to your niche, and network with other bloggers to build a following.
  5. Monetize your blog: Consider ways to monetize your blog, such as advertising, affiliate marketing, sponsored content, and product sales.
  6. Continuously improve: Stay up-to-date on the latest trends in your niche, listen to your audience’s feedback, and continuously improve your blog to stay relevant and engaged with your audience.

Also Read: Breaking Down How To Write Dialogues In Fiction

Remember, success in blogging takes time, hard work, and persistence, but with dedication and a strong strategy, you can build a successful career as a blogger.

Tips To Write Blogposts That Readers Enjoy Reading

Here are some tips to write blog posts that readers enjoy reading:

  1. Write with your audience in mind: Consider what your target audience is interested in and what type of content will be most valuable to them.
  2. Use a conversational tone: Write as if you are speaking directly to your reader to make your content more relatable and engaging.
  3. Keep it simple: Use clear and concise language, and avoid technical jargon or complex terminology that may confuse your audience.
  4. Make it visually appealing: Use images, graphics, and other forms of media to break up text and make your content more engaging.
  5. Use subheadings and bullet points: Make your content easy to scan by using subheadings and bullet points to highlight key points.
  6. Tell stories: Use personal anecdotes and real-life examples to make your content more relatable and engaging.
  7. Be informative: Provide valuable information and insights that your readers can apply to their own lives or work.
  8. Be consistent: Publish blog posts on a regular schedule to keep your audience engaged and coming back for more.

Remember, writing blog posts that readers enjoy reading is about providing value, being relatable, and making a connection with your audience.

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Brand Yourself As Authors Before Your Book Launch

February 19 , 2023 Samarpita Mukherjee Sharma
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One question I frequently get asked from new authors is, “My manuscript has been accepted by the publisher but I am clueless about how to market my book. I know it mostly depends on me, but I am hardly active on social media. I don’t know where to begin and I fear it is too late.”

A problem identified is one-third solved. You know what you want to do, and what you haven’t been doing. All that remains is doing what you need to be doing. Simple? Not so much, but you are not in as bad a place as you’d imagine.

Also Read: 10 Ways To Repurpose Your Content

Let’s break this down. Digital is here to stay and is at a peak now. All your promotions need to be here, and here is where people will pick book suggestions from, mostly. Now the thing is, for your book to be known, your name needs to be known first. Gone are the days when books sold themselves, its definitely not happening for us common souls. Readers adapt to authors they have read before, even if in blogs, or even as small as tweets.


So, embrace digital media even if it is the last thing you want to do. Trust me in this, and read on.

Start as early from the book launch as possible. It’s never too early. I have come across a lot of people who believe their book deserves the limelight and not they. Let’s not fool ourselves, you need to brand yourself as an author and its that brand which will be marketing the book. There is no other way about it. Unless you are Dan Humphrey from Gossip Girl, writing a say-it-all exposé on the who’s who of the society, or something similarly controversial. Actually, even there, Dan had to show his face and brand himself in a way. When he didn’t, his book sales had dropped, remember?

Also Read: 5 Hacks To Have A Productive Day At Your Writing 
Desk

It is a scary world out there – putting yourself and your work out there. It’s a vulnerable situation. With free internet, everyone has an opinion and you will be subjected to it. Don’t let that scare you off. You’ll know what is genuine criticism and what is not. You will also learn how much of the branding is positive, and how much is spamming or having a negative effect. It takes a while, but you will learn, I promise. Or you can just hire an expert to handhold you. I will have a separate post on the details of brand building, but in this post I’ll share things you can do broadly to create your author brand and name on the www.

Write – But, of course. And not just your book. It is easy for readers to identify with your name, if they have read you before. Blog. Pitch to publications, and write away. Get your name all over social media.

Also Read: Promote Your Book Without Leaving Your Home!

When blogging, it is okay to begin with a generic blog, but I highly recommend a dedicated domain in your name. Your website will be your electronic biodata, and will hold links to all your writings. A home for your author brand.

 


Network – Online and offline. If you live in one of the metro cities, offline meetings are particularly easy. Meet with other authors, be part of forums and interact online+offline, attend events – as guest as well as panel speaker. Mingle, online and offline. If you ask me, twitter is probably the best platform to mingle and network online, the outreach is remarkable and people can be very accepting. Women, join women tribe. Some people have been known and seen to have gained leverage through their political views on social media – if that floats your boat, get into it by all means. But focus on a positive image, not a negative one!

Related : Five Mistakes You Could Be Making While Writing 
Your Book

Tweet – This, I mention apart from networking. You cannot be online only to interact with others, right. What are your views? Talk about things you love, books you read, what you are reading, your writing process, maybe share links to something interesting you might have read, retweet interesting things tweeted by other people – find a balance in what all work for you and do that.

Share – If you have written something, be it on your blog or for publications, share them extensively (don’t spam though) on all social media platforms. Learn to use the correct hashtags, and pick out one or two which work the best. You can also use a personalised hashtag, could be just your full name or something more creative. Follow other authors who promote their own works, and observe their styles.

Take it slowly and steadily, don’t rush into it. Give it some time, and observe other authors. Learn and imbibe social media habits, and then find your own. Your presence is crucial for your author brand, so be present online.

If you are looking for an excellent manuscript editor, someone to create content for your business, or an expert to help build your personal or professional brand on social media, then look no further and connect with me at editor@samarpita.in I can be followed on instagram at @samarpita and on twitter at @samarpitadotin.

***********

Read my ebook WRITE. EDIT. PROMOTE. to learn the basics about becoming an author – from writing your own book, to editing your first draft, and to promoting your book yourself! You can also read my ebook How To Write A Story Effectively and learn some valuable lessons about how a story can go from average to extraordinary. This book is part 1 of the series.

In fiction, I have two short stories for children in an ebook called Bedtime Stories.





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Who Are Ideal Book Reviewers And How Can You Find Them?
  

  
  
  
  
    February     
    13    , 
    2023      
    Samarpita Mukherjee Sharma    
    

  

    
 
         

    
  
  
          

             
      

     

    
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There are so many book reviewers out there, and more joining in as you read this post. The great thing is that most book reviewers do put in a lot of effort and do fantastic jobs in promoting the books they read. But as is a fact, every genre isn’t for everybody, then why do authors and publishers still send out their books randomly to reviewers instead of doing a little study of who matches with what they write? Not always does more followers mean more publicity, because at the end of the day someone with 10 followers talking passionately about your book can convert all 10 followers into buyers & readers.


Also Read: Building A Writing Routine


Who is an ideal book reviewer?






















An ideal book reviewer is someone who is knowledgeable and passionate about books, and has the ability to express their thoughts and opinions in a clear and concise manner. The following characteristics are common among good book reviewers:


    

  1. Good reader: A good book reviewer should be an avid reader and have a broad understanding of various genres and literary styles.
    2. 

  2. Good writing skills: The ability to articulate thoughts and opinions in a well-written and engaging manner is essential for a book reviewer.
    3. 

  3. Objectivity: A good book reviewer should be able to approach each book objectively and not let personal biases or opinions cloud their judgment.
    4. 

  4. Attention to detail: A good book reviewer should pay close attention to the details of the book, including its plot, characters, themes, and writing style.
    5. 

  5. Critical thinking: A good book reviewer should have the ability to analyze and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of a book, and provide a balanced and well-rounded review.
    6. 

  6. Knowledgeable: A good book reviewer should have a good understanding of the literary world and be knowledgeable about the author, the book’s context, and the publishing industry.
    7. 

  7. Good communication skills: A good book reviewer should be able to communicate their thoughts and opinions in a clear and concise manner that engages and informs the reader.
    8. 










 










Also Read: Should you hire a professional editor to improve 
your manuscript?


How Can Authors Find Ideal Book Reviewers?
































Here are a few ways that authors can find ideal book reviewers:


    

  1. Book review websites and blogs: Many websites and blogs are dedicated to reviewing books and offer a platform for authors to connect with potential reviewers.
    2. 

  2. Social media: Social media platforms such as Goodreads, Twitter, and Facebook can be a great way for authors to connect with potential book reviewers.
    3. 

  3. Book clubs and reading groups: Joining or reaching out to book clubs and reading groups can be a great way for authors to connect with potential reviewers who are passionate about books.
    4. 

  4. Online communities: There are many online communities dedicated to book lovers, such as Reddit’s /r/books, where authors can connect with potential reviewers.
    5. 

  5. Professional organizations: Joining professional organizations such as the National Book Critics Circle or the American Society of Journalists and Authors can provide access to potential book reviewers who are professional and experienced.
    6. 

  6. Bookstores and libraries: Local bookstores and libraries can be great places to connect with potential book reviewers and get feedback on your book.
    7. 

  7. Personal networks: Asking friends, family members, and professional contacts who enjoy reading if they would be interested in reviewing your book can also be a great way to find ideal book reviewers.
    8. 



Also Read: Who Is A Writing Coach And How Can One Help You?


It is important to note that when reaching out to potential reviewers, authors should respect their time and preferences, and not harass or pressure them into reviewing their book. A professional and respectful approach will increase the chances of building a positive relationship with book reviewers.




































































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Posted on 
Building A Writing Routine
  

  
  
  
  
    February     
    7    , 
    2023      
    Samarpita Mukherjee Sharma    
    

  

    
 
         

    
  
  
          

             
      

     

    
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Building a writing routine is important because it provides structure and discipline to the writing process, helps writers establish good writing habits, and can increase productivity and creativity.









Some key benefits of building a writing routine include:


    

  1. Consistency: Having a writing routine can help writers write regularly and consistently, which can lead to faster progress and a larger body of work.
    2. 

  2. Focus and concentration: A writing routine helps create a dedicated space and time for writing, which can help writers stay focused and avoid distractions.
    3. 

  3. Overcoming writer’s block: A routine can help writers overcome writer’s block by providing a structured approach to writing, and by helping writers establish a consistent writing habit.
    4. 

  4. Building momentum: Regular writing can help writers build momentum and create a sense of forward progress, which can be motivating and inspiring.
    5. 

  5. Time management: A writing routine can help writers manage their time more effectively, and prioritize writing as a priority.
    6. 



Also Read: Who Is A Writing Coach And How Can One Help You?


In short, building a writing routine is an essential part of the writing process. It provides discipline, focus, and structure to the writing process, and can help writers produce high-quality work more efficiently and effectively.




How Can You Too Have A Feasible Writing Schedule?


    

  1. Set a goal: Start by setting a clear goal for your writing routine, such as writing a certain number of words or pages each day, or writing for a certain number of hours each week.
    2. 

  2. Find a suitable time and place: Choose a time and place that works best for you to write, and make it a priority in your schedule. Some writers prefer to write first thing in the morning. Others find that writing in the evening works best for them.
    3. 

  3. Eliminate distractions: Find a quiet place to write, turn off notifications on your devices, and eliminate other distractions.
    4. 

  4. Start small: Start with a manageable writing goal, and gradually increase it over time. Writing for just 10-15 minutes a day can be a good starting point.
    5. 

  5. Make it a habit: Stick to your writing routine, and make it a habit by writing at the same time and place every day.
    6. 

  6. Reward yourself: Reward yourself after completing your writing goal, whether it be with a treat, time with friends, or a special activity.
    7. 

  7. Be flexible: It’s okay to miss a writing session sometimes, but don’t let it discourage you. Get back to your routine as soon as possible.
    8. 



Also Read: Should you hire a professional editor to improve your manuscript?


Building a writing routine takes time and effort, but with consistency and discipline, it can become an integral part of your writing process, and help you produce high-quality work more efficiently and effectively.


***


If you are looking for an excellent manuscript editor, someone to create content for your business, or an expert to help build your personal or professional brand on social media, then look no further and connect with me at editor@samarpita.in


I can be followed on Instagram at @samarpita and on Twitter at @samarpitadotin.


***********


Read my ebook WRITE. EDIT. PROMOTE. to learn the basics about becoming an author – from writing your book, to editing your first draft, and promoting your book yourself! You can also read my ebook How To Write A Story Effectively and learn some valuable lessons about how a story can go from average to extraordinary. This book is part 1 of the series.


In fiction, I have two short stories for children in an ebook called Bedtime Stories.


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Posted on 
Should you hire a professional editor to improve your manuscript?
  

  
  
  
  
    February     
    3    , 
    2023      
    Samarpita Mukherjee Sharma    
    

  

    
 
         

    
  
  
          

             
      

     

    
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‘To hire an editor or not?’ is a question that comes to the minds of many writers writing their first book, especially indie authors. As an editor, it is my job to reply with a resounding yes. But when I start working with a new client, it is important for me to ensure that they come in fully aware of what they are getting into and what they will get out of the process. So if anyone approaches me with still some doubts in mind, I share these ten benefits of hiring an experience manuscript editor for their draft.


Also Read: Understanding Dialogue Writing In Fiction


Benefits Of Hiring A Professional Editor :


    

  1. A professional editor has the experience and expertise to identify and correct grammar and punctuation errors.
    2. 

  2. They can improve the overall flow and structure of your manuscript to make it more compelling and engaging for readers.
    3. 

  3. They can provide feedback on characterization, plot, and dialogue to help you make your story more effective.
    4. 

  4. They can check your manuscript for consistency and continuity errors.
    5. 

  5. They can help you identify areas where your writing may be unclear or confusing and provide suggestions for improvement.
    6. 

  6. They can ensure your manuscript adheres to industry standards and conventions.
    7. 

  7. They can help you identify and eliminate unnecessary words or phrases, making your manuscript more concise and impactful.
    8. 

  8. They can help you refine and polish your writing style to make it more polished and professional.
    9. 

  9. They can provide guidance and support throughout the editing process, giving you the confidence and motivation you need to finish your manuscript.
    10. 

  10. They can ensure your manuscript is ready for submission to agents or publishers, increasing your chances of getting published.
    11. 



Also Read: Basic Yet Underrated Things To Remember While Writing A Manuscript


Why should indie authors get their manuscript edited by professional editors?


Indie authors should consider getting their manuscript edited by professional editors because it can help improve the overall quality and readability of the book. A professional editor can catch grammatical errors, inconsistencies, and plot holes that the author may have missed. They can also provide feedback on character development, pacing, and structure. Additionally, a professional editor can help the author prepare the manuscript for publication, which can increase the chances of it being accepted by literary agents or publishers. Overall, professional editing can be an investment in the success of an indie author’s book.


This post was first published here.


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