Use of social media is becoming a vital part of successful book promotions.

Chris Bass, who recently became director of author marketing services for AuthorHive, says, “Authors who want to optimize their marketing efforts should incorporate a wide array of social media tools into their plan,” according to “AuthorHive Author Marketing Expert Observes: ‘Social Media Tools Vital in Building a Successful Book Promotion Platform’” on Yahoo Finance.

“Social media is highly effective in leveling the playing field, for example for emerging authors, who may not have the largest marketing budgets,” Bass says. “It permits authors to actively engage potential readers from the convenience of a computer and breaks down the barriers of cost and access.”

Bass said AuthorHive, which serves both traditionally published and self-published authors, offers several options for “getting in the social media game.” A basic package incorporates social media with a personal Web site and a mass email campaign. A more advanced version adds the services of a literary publicist, whose goal is to gain the attention of both traditional and online media.

The SSN take: One wonders how much time dedicated book readers spend online (or maybe on their Kindles or iPads). But the thought of Ernest Hemingway tweeting with fans while watching a bullfight in Spain is somewhat amusing.

John Sniffen, April 16, 2010

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