RHP « Robin Writes

I may have scared a few people this weekend. In fact, I’m sure I did—especially those whom I “borrowed” during my presentation. But I’m equally sure they’ll recover . . .

Well, mostly. Probably.

See, I gave a talk on “submitting, marketing, and distribution” and what YOU, the writer, must do to increase your sales and your odds of success.

What are these things?

Be visible.

Promote yourself and your book.

Make yourself an expert.

Make contacts.

Follow up.

Schedule events.

Form relationships.

I talked about the dos and don’ts. See, if you walk into a store to buy a TV, and the salesman runs up to you, gets in your face, and shrieks over and over, “BUY THIS ONE! THIS ONE! BUY IT NOW!” you’re going to think it’s time to call for back up.

But if he starts the conversation with introducing himself, making non-threatening comments about the weather or something equally inane—but socially acceptable—and gets to know you (however superficially in such a short time), he can recommend the best TV for YOU. Even if it’s not the one that nets him the highest commission.

And so you get what you need or want, are happy with the choice, and you’ll probably remember him fondly—maybe even tell your friends about his other products.

See how that works?

My marketing book, only on Kindle, will be revamped and expanded in the very near future—be sure to keep an eye out for it—and it covers all these things I listed above, and more.

We’ve narrowed down our search for land to 9 Missouri counties—17 properties. Of course, we aren’t quite ready to buy, and these could certainly change, but in just a couple months we’ll start driving around and checking things out.

We’re going to plan on 35 acres; this seems to meet our budget and we really have to stop saying, “Or whatever size we end up with.” Mostly wooded is the main criteria, some open/pasture is fine, and of course, a flat section for building. Live water is preferred, but probably not on a major waterway—tubing is popular in the areas we’re looking at, but that means people . . .

I printed off some graph paper and drew a rough sketch of the compound:

24’ X 30’ cabin with a driveway/parking area leading to the side

4 8’ X 8’ outbuildings: pump house, supplies, general storage, and fuel

12’ X 12’ platform for tent

Outhouse/outdoor shower

16’ X 24’ garden

There is also room for fruit trees/vines, and a small stall/stable/enclosure for a cow. No chickens! I’m still terrified of them—but we’ll have a hive as well. We can trade for eggs. And bacon. J

Now, in case you’re wondering about the tent and outhouse, the plan is to move out there WHILE we’re building the house. And, of course, we need something to live in, and somewhere to um, go, so there’s that. And, later, our friends can come out and camp—instant campground!

Of course, that’s if you know the location and the secret password . . .