Anybody writing a blook would know firsthand how hard it is to find and maintain loyal readers. We face quite a challenge - writing fiction in a merciless medium, where the screen resembles the scroll more than the book.
I was recently jolted at Derick’s blog, Reader Meet Author. I had left a comment in one of his posts, and in the space of a few short hours I received this email:
Dear Eli James,
I just wanted to thank you for taking the time to stop by Reader Meet Author. In particular, I wanted to say thanks for leaving me a comment. This is the first time you\’ve commented at RMA, right?
One of the things I\’ve always wanted from RMA was interaction and the sharing of ideas. I know you have other things you could probably be doing. So believe me when I say I really appreciate you taking time out of the day to interact with me and my readers.
Thanks again… and I hope to hear from you again!
Sincerely,
Derick
ReaderMeetAuthor.com
I was pleased. And surprised, yes, but pleasantly so.
The next time a reader comments on your blook - and takes the time to make it intelligent and helpful - show your appreciation. Reply to the comment immediately, and take it a step further … send him or her an email.
You see, in the few seconds it took me to read that email something changed within.
I liked Derick. I liked Reader Meet Author. And so I subscribed to it. It’s the little things that jump out at you, and this is one of them.
Appreciate your readers. Because in blooking each of them counts.
7 Comments
I think you’re right! I really do appreciate all my readers–but I think I’ll take more time to go out of my way to show it now!
Yeah … the email really opened my eyes to what was possible …
*goes off to comment on Undead Flowers, waiting for an email*
;P
that’s really cool, i’ve been getting that synchronistic vibe too, getting and sending out e-mails.
and a fellow blogger and friend, recently commented on how if he can get an e-mail he will thank readers, not only for comments, but even jjust for stopping by, encouraging them to comment next time.
one more on a synchronistic note: I have a acouple of domains with the name “artmakr”
A comple of domains? Hrmm.
Sending out emails is taking reader - author interaction to a whole new level.
And I like it. Still gathering the courage to put it into practise, though.
I think flash fiction and flash collections stand the most chance of making the online medium big.
By the way, I tagged you.
and i added you to one of my link list:)
@ Benjamin - oo-er, a tag. I’ll do it first thing in the morning.
@ming - thanks! I can’t add yours to my blogroll since your blog isn’t about writing and/or reading … but I’ll figure out some way to link to you. :-)