Writers write; authors market.
That is an extreme oversimplification of the publishing industry, but I think it captures one major difference between a write and an author. An author is required to market the heck out of their book(s), unless they are happy to only sell to their family and friends.
Some authors do blog tours once their book is released, supplying books (or asking the publisher to) for giveaways on the blogs. Some do physical book signings or events at local bookstores. And some use Twitter, Facebook, Yahoo Groups, and newsletters to keep their readers apprised of upcoming releases.
Romance writing duo Moira Rogers is doing an early blog tour, giving away copies of Cry Sanctuary, book 1 in their Red Rock Pass series, to generate excitement for the release of Sanctuary Lost, book 2, on June 9. I’m hosting the ladies for an interview and contest on Pop Culture Curmudgeon this Friday. Find out more about it here.
I was on a panel in April with some other small press people, and one of the things we talked about was the importance of marketing yourself and building an internet presence.
It really is essential. I’m so glad I came across Christina Katz’ books that talk about the importance of marketing. They really gave me some good ideas to get me started.