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Be True To Yourself In 2019

Quote of the Day: “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

Be True To Yourself 2019, Carolyn Bowen Author
Photo credit: Pixabay

An important part of my writing life is learning more about the craft and marketing. Today I’m focusing on marketing in preparation for releasing my new mystery thriller.

To stay on top of current trends it’s important to find knowledgeable sources and I hit the jackpot today with an article by Lisa D. Jenkins, Managing Editor of Social Media Examiner.

Jenkins provides marketing predictions for 2019 from top marketers in the world. And, having earlier read predictions by futurist I felt like we’ve just skipped right on through to another decade or two into the far-off future. It was amazing reading about what we could expect in marketing in this New Year.

Here’s a few that caught my attention!

  • The rapid growth for voice-activated searches using Alexa and other tools. Going from visual to spoken word searches is going to take on new meaning for marketers accustomed to the web and mobile devices.
  • Augmented reality, AR, for close inspection of products and services is on the rise. For example, wouldn’t it be great to experience a travel destination before booking, try out new accessories or clothing, etc.?
  • The shift away from active social media interactions back to more passive experiences to entertain and/or educate. The desire to take back control of time and funds normally spent using social media will be evaluated and determined if relevant. According to Seth Godin, author, and entrepreneur, “…the idea of seeing and being seen by the people who matter to them,” will be a priority.
  • The stability of email marketing will remain strong with businesses utilizing newsletters to converse with their audience.
  • A special note to authors and publishers is the prediction of the increased use of story format content videos for marketing. Check out my YouTube Channel!

Marketers will need to revamp their plans to stay on top of the trends for 2019. The full article by Lisa D. Jenkins, Social Media Examiner is here.

In 2019 stay true to yourself and don’t let the noise of the world distract you from your goals. Let me know your thoughts about the marketing predictions for this year.

I’m counting down the days to the release of my new mystery-thriller. Follow my blog to stay in the know about upcoming events. Thank you!

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Brand Mania: Book Review – Say My Name!

Brand Mania: Book Review – Say My Name!
Photo Credit: Pixabay

Quote of the Day: Social media is changing the way we communicate and the way we are perceived, both positively and negatively. Every time you post a photo or update your status, you are contributing to your own digital footprints and personal brand. – Amy Jo Martin

Today I’ve reviewed an excellent book by Matt Bertram about building and maintaining your brand. He provides the big picture and the blueprint for attracting your ideal customer over time.

We need to understand and welcome the idea that everyone doesn’t fit into your fan base. Those who do will become a supporter and potential customer. And, that’s not all!

Now, with the right online tools and resources, you can monitor your brand and quickly take action to keep your brand in good standing without hurting yourself in the long run. This isn’t the time for “going to the mattresses” in godfather terms.

“Conversations among the members of your marketplace happen whether you like it or not. Good marketing encourages the right sort of conversations.” Seth Godin, Seth’s Blog

Note: There are many excellent monitoring sites on the Internet. For a start, you can Google your own and your business name and see what’s on the net about you. In addition, I personally use and recommend the monitoring provided by Mention and Google Alerts. Remember, to use your own name and keywords associated with your brand.

Build Your Brand Mania: How to Transform Yourself Into an Authoritative Brand That Will Attract Your Ideal CustomersBuild Your Brand Mania: How to Transform Yourself Into an Authoritative Brand That Will Attract Your Ideal Customers by Matt Bertram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bertram provides a step-by-step guide for developing an authoritative brand on the world-wide-web. His in-depth explanation provides a way to attract your ideal customer. You’ll learn how to filter out what doesn’t fit your business objectives. The end results will be the development of a cohesive plan to reach people interested in your offerings.

How do you handle unfavorable comments online? First, you need the best tools, and online resources to track communications about your brand. This seasoned digital marketer integrates the answers for what to do when confronted with the negativity that’ll soften the blow to your image.

If you want to become a trusted advisor or go-to person for a specific product or service, I highly recommend reading Brand Mania.

View all my reviews

I’d love to know about your experiences while branding your business. Leave a comment at the bottom of the post. Thank you!

Books, Carolyn M. Bowen, bloggingShopping for a special someone in your life? Whoever it is, we’re guessing they’d love a good book, because who doesn’t? Look no further than action-packed books by Carolyn Bowen!

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It’s Not You – It’s Me!

woman-1446557__340

Quote for Today: “Just as you don’t need to be on every single TV channel, I don’t believe a brand needs to be on every single social media one in a big way.” – Shiv Singh

The new social marketing trends for 2019 are captivating. This one caught my eye with understanding behind the motivation. Put simply, there’s a rising desire for small businesses to cut back their social media posting across multiple platforms.

The reasons are persuasive for analyzing what’s working or not. Social media is time-consuming and is linked to depression for some users. Actively participating costs time and money that may be better spent elsewhere.

The time and resources to create and develop new products and the cost of doing business through these channels is a key point. The need to evaluate the return on the investment (ROI) for the monies spent creating posts, images, videos, etc. is crucial. For example, just because an influencer says there making sales with their storytelling online doesn’t cut it anymore. The proof is in dollars and cents. It has to be experienced for one.

Cross-Stepping MoneyFor example, have you encouraged folks to like your page on a social platform to find few ever saw your creative postings? That’s a dead-end to organic growth from your efforts. The caveat – is until you promoted or sponsored the post as an ad don’t expect growth. Then, the results will depend on the product, the precise targeting, and other demographic variables. And, only a small percentage will click through to become subscribers or potential consumers.

The dollars spent cultivating these type fan bases have been sucked into a dark hole never to be seen again. Take time to study and learn from others about what’s working and make changes as needed. Don’t waste your time and money doing the same old thing expecting different results.

Recently we learned Google+ was ending their social platform that according to some news reports was designed to compete against Facebook. I am sorry to see these changes but understand the reasons behind it. If something isn’t meeting the business goals – end it.

However, this is one of my favorite and largest fan bases. I welcome all my fans to follow my website blog for the latest news about my writing life. In the meantime, I’m staying to the end. The latest report is that Google+ Support will be cut off on December 11th and the app will shut down completely on March 12th, 2018.

I plan to continue evaluating where my advertising dollars are best spent across the web and what social media platform/s helps me achieve my goals. I’ll tell you more about my mistakes in marketing and one I’m correcting soon. Hint: Develop your own real estate.

You can catch me posting on my favorite social platforms daily. Why? Because of the friendships I’ve developed over time and the encouragement and mutual sharing of ideas. What are your social media marketing plans for 2019?

love-1100253__340Shopping for a special someone in your life? Whoever it is, we’re guessing they’d love a good book, because who doesn’t? Look no further than action-packed books by Carolyn Bowen!

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my favorite social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow Here!

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Google Plus Shutting Down

Quote of the Day: The only thing a person can ever really do is keep moving forward. Take that big leap forward without hesitation, without once looking back. Simply forget the past and forge toward the future. Alyson Noel

Google Plus Shutting Down, Carolyn Bowen Author

One of my favorite and most enriching social media sites is shutting down following a security breach. The consumer version of Google Plus will no longer be available as its being phased out over a six month period.

I’ve developed relationships with some cool folks on this social platform. I’ll post alternative sites like Twitter and Facebook for us to connect and of course, my website and am hopeful many will follow. However, right now all I can do is cry!

I’ve enjoyed looking at pictures from around the world and connecting with the photographers (friends) who allowed us a peek into their lives and country.

I’ll be reading a book or watching a movie or TV series and have friends on Google+ post the exact spots where the action took place along with comments. These may be little things too many, but they’re a breath of fresh air for those interested in the variety of topics posted on Google+.

So, I’ll get busy and do my best to stay connected. If you’re following me on Google+, please hit the follow button, I want our relationship to continue.  While I’m at it, a special thank you for sharing my post on other social sites. I noticed. And, it’s most appreciated. Hope to see you soon! Carolyn Bowen

I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow Here!

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Marketing: What You Don’t Know May Hurt You!

Quote of the Day: “Build it, and they will come” only works in the movies. Social Media is a “build it, nurture it, engage them and they may come and stay.” – Seth Godin

Marketing: What You Don't Know May Hurt You!, Marketing, Carolyn Bowen Author

Our world is constantly changing and business is no exception to this rule. Marketing strategies are constantly evolving and being made new to reach customers where they live and work with products/services relevant to their wants and needs.

Entrepreneurs are required to become smarter and more resourceful in attracting and maintaining customers’ loyalty. Marketing and advertising play a major role in accomplishing business goals with repeat satisfied customers.

Marketing is not a shush word one is afraid to say out loud. The best made beautifully crafted products or most polished service is unknown unless it is marketed and advertised. But, with the variety of marketing strategies available, it becomes deafening and confusing to most business owners.

The idea of simplicity is a favorite go-to for me. Just give me the facts, nothing fancy, like I’d have to stand on my head to accomplish and I’m happy. The 1- Page Marketing Plan by Allan Dib made sense for me. Here is my review from Goodreads. Check it out and see if his marketing ideas will work for you.

The 1-Page Marketing Plan: Get New Customers, Make More Money, And Stand out From The CrowdThe 1-Page Marketing Plan: Get New Customers, Make More Money, And Stand out From The Crowd by Allan Dib
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

No hype here. This marketing book is straightforward about its offerings. Allan Dib provides a step-by-step plan for developing and executing a marketing plan along with a sample one page worksheet to download. Simple instructions making the complexities of marketing easier and more customers oriented are at your fingertips. I’d also recommend buying the paperback to have on hand as a resource. This is one of the best marketing books available right now.

View all my reviews

I look forward to learning about your successes. Thank you for following my blog and reading my books. Hope you’ll check out my “About Page” to learn more about my books and writing life.

I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow Here!

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Spring 2018 Countdown – Writing Life

The Writing Life

Spring 2018 Countdown, The Writing Life, Carolyn Bowen Author

Quote of the Day: “Start writing, no matter what. The water does not flow until the faucet is turned on.” Louis L’Amour

Good News

I’m pounding the keys again working on a new novel. Excited – is an understatement. I’m enjoying watching the words appear on the pages and sharing my writing journey with you.

Around the house

Tookie and Bubba Blue are still strange bedfellows with a new friend joining them soon – a swim mate for Blue.

With the flu season making a major impact this season, I’m taking extra health precautions being more health and fitness minded. It’s taken me a long time to find a balance between work and health pursuits. I tend to focus on my writing and marketing and lose touch with everything else. I’m proud to say that’s changing and I’m still able to reach my goals.

Spring 2018 Countdown

There are 52 days left until spring 2018. If you haven’t already read my novels, now is a great time as winter bids farewell.

Where to Buy My Novels

Check at your favorite online bookstores and corner bookshops. Click the direct link to begin reading on Amazon. Happy reading!


The Long Road Home: Romantic Murder Mystery


Cross-Ties: Historical Fiction Passages

I’ll be writing and sharing on social media. Hope to see you there, too! Carolyn Bowen

Social Media Hangouts!

These are a few of my social media hangouts! Drop by and say hello!

Goodreads

Twitter

Google Plus

Facebook

Love picture ideas? Me, too.  Pinners Follow

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Get a Taste of Southern Living – The Long Road Home

The Writing Life

Quote for Today: “When writing a novel a writer should create living people; people, not characters. A character is a caricature.” Ernest Hemingway

Charleston, South CarolinaMarch is fast approaching and I look forward to marketing my latest novel, The Long Road Home. My writing life is split between the writing process and marketing. When I’m writing that’s my main focus. When my novels are completed I go to another happy place to let readers know it’s available.

It’s great to have others appreciate your work and help get the word out about your novel. I was fortunate to be featured by Adam Parker journalist with The Post and Courier this month. I am truly grateful.

Reviews are important to authors

Thank you for the reviews you’ve posted about The Long Road Home. If you haven’t read my novel, please do. If you enjoy reading mystery thrillers and romantic suspense you’ll find amusement. The Long Road Home is available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and your favorite bookstores.

The Long Road Home, Carolyn M. Bowen, Author

A Short Blurb: The Long Road Home

A page-turning mystery about murder, money, and revenge set in Charleston SC.

Kate‭’‬s life was in turmoil after the death of her parents.‭ ‬She‭’‬d always been protected and sheltered by them.‭ ‬Suddenly she finds herself with a conniving fiancé living under her roof,‭ ‬a powerful businessman with terrorist ties from across the ocean trying to kill her and more family secrets than most American politicians.‭ ‬She was also unaware that a half brother she knew nothing of was about to enter her life.‭ ‬Her situation was getting precarious right at the moment she was least able to cope with it.

Reviewers Wanted: Genre: Fiction, Crime Detective, Mystery, Suspense/Thriller, and Romantic Suspense ~  If you’re the real deal, reader/reviewer and would like a copy of my book, The Long Road Home, let me know and I’ll send you a Kindle version with no strings. Thank you!

ATTN: Book Clubs
Contact me about reading and discussing The Long Road Home for your special discount.

More Good News

I’m so happy about launching The Long Road Home! I’m offering Cross-Ties Novel with reduced pricing. It’s a story about love, passion, and family with some hiccups here and there. (Historical Fiction) Purchase today at Amazon: Paperback $9.99 – MatchBook $0.99 – Kindle $1.99 and Barnes and Noble -$9.99.

national-iced-teaA Taste of Southern Living

The Long Road Home dives right into southern living. I’ve been doing some southern cooking but can’t get the recipe just right for the Southern Corn Pone like my granny used to make. It would be tasty with some black-eyed peas and ham hocks. If you have a family recipe you’d share with me, I’d appreciate it.

I post writing news and inspirational information daily on my social media sites. I invite you to connect with me there also. Thanks for sharing the love, Carolyn

Social Media Sites – Say hello here!

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Facebook

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New Book Coming Soon

Quote of the Today: “There is no friend as loyal as a book.” Ernest Hemingway

New BookI can’t hardly type this morning from the excitement about the progress on my new suspense book. It won’t be much longer before I can announce a launch date and party plans. I’ll be posting the latest news here and on my social media sites. Hope you’ll follow and talk to me on  Facebook, Google Plus, Twitter, Amazon Author’s Page, and other favorite sites.

Toker my cat, Carolyn M. Bowen Author

Today is National Camera Day which is fitting in my case. It’s time for a new head shot for the book. Usually, I welcome such occasions but on a bad hair day not so much. My cat Toker seems to agree a do over is merited. Wish me the best!

I appreciate your following my blog and connecting on social media. Thank you! Wishing you a wonderful day! Carolyn Bowen

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