I talk to a lot of writers and artists who want to grow their platform, effectively sharing what they create, and reaching their ideal audience in a meaningful way. Yet, they are overwhelmed with all they feel they have to do in order to market their work. But I have found that doing less can be more effective. Let’s explore why.

Today I want to share my 5-part system for how you can conduct marketplace research, learning how readers share and talk about books online. This framework can be applied to any kind of creative work. This is a critical process for understanding word-of-mouth marketing, which drives book sales. We will use TikTok as an example, though this methodology applies more broadly to channels such as Instagram, podcasts, and so on.

I spend the last few months of every year reassessing what I create, and how I can better serve writers and creators. Every single year, I go back to the well to reconnect with my deeper purpose for this work. My goal is to help people share their creative work in a meaningful way, one that leads to fulfillment and success. Today I talk about that process and ask for your help.

I’ve been thinking a lot about what singer/songwriter Mike Mattison told me in our recent interview, about what it means to become a professional in your craft. Some of his advice can be challenging to those who go into the arts for the love of it. If you are a writer looking to get to the “next level” in your career, so much of what Mike shares may be useful. In this episode, I share five powerful lessons on how to connect with your audience.