Turning Readers Into Writers

Ep 116 - Using events to promote your books in a fun (and unsalesy) way


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In this episode:

Jo Bavington-Jones started writing her first novel when she was made redundant in 2016. This was the opportunity she'd been waiting for it to finally write her first novel, and she took it.

She explains why she opted for a Hybrid publisher and how that publisher differs from indie publishing and vanity publishing.

We go on to talk about why events, both in-person and online are so beneficial to spreading the word about your books, even if you find them terrifying!

Jo shares that she finds live events terrifying, even now, but she absolutely believes they are the best way of connecting with readers and promoting her novels.

To counter the nerves, Jo uses brown paper bags to stop herself from hyperventilating as well as essential oils and Rescue Remedy to help her stay calm.

And, she says, once she’s up and running at the event, her nerves calm down, she gets in the zone and has a great time.

Jo explains how she finds the events and why, especially in the early days, it’s a great idea to have a buddy go along with you, particularly if they’re a writing friend. You can support one another.

What she's discovered is that now she’s been around for a while, people tend to come to her and ask her if she’d like to be on a podcast or talk at a book group or have a stall at a festival. But she had to put the groundwork initially, and that included using social media.

Facebook and Instagram have been the best sites for Jo Bavington-Jones and she emphasises the importance of reposting the same things again and again. People won’t get irritated by it (on average people need to see things 16 times before they take a look!)

If you’re curious to learn if attending events and networking that way is a good move for you, this episode is well worth a listen.

Jo gives great ways to get started and manage those nerves!

Connect with Jo:

  • https://jobavingtonjones.co.uk/ 
  • https://www.facebook.com/JoBavingtonJones 
  • https://twitter.com/jbavingtonjones 
  • https://www.instagram.com/jobavingtonjonesauthor/ 

Links mentioned in the show:

  • The Conrad Press
  • Joanna Penn


If you're a first-time author and need help with your manuscript, then The Story Builder is what you need. It's a 12 month, small group programme that will get you from fearful and stuck, to feeling ready to achieve a long desired dream. Book a call today >> www.emmadhesi.com/StoryBuilder

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Turning Readers Into WritersBy Emma Dhesi