Promotion: Be Humble

With Blogger back on board, let's get this turkey farm gobblin'.


In a world where being humble and having integrity seems to be lacking, now is not the time to jump on board. Always be thankful for what you have and never forget where you came from. Everyone starts out by putting words on paper, or electronic paper now with the advent of computers, tablets and smartphones. There is nothing worse than meeting someone who feels that they are entitled to your praise because they reached the NYT bestsellers list, or gained some prestigious award. Remember - as fast as it came, it can all disappear.

Here at Variance, we are very blessed to have grounded authors. I’ve met some who aren’t so, well, nice. It’s extraordinarily unfortunate when you read their books, see them as modern-day literary heroes, and come to find out that in-person they leave a terrible taste in your mouth. One realizes that you have found success, but it doesn’t need to be flaunted like tomorrow’s winning lottery numbers.

I was doing a signing at Christmas time when a woman walked in with her four children and we started chatting, while we were talking, she brought her daughter over who I guess was about six. She looked to her daughter and said, “Look honey, this man is a real life author, and he writes books.” Her eyes lit up and she looked at me like I was Santa himself with a bag full of toys just for her.

On their way out I signed markers for all her kids. As they left, the little girl looked at me again and exclaimed to her mother, “Mommy, I met a real life author!”
I was awed, flattered and humbled by that little girl’s reaction to something that I did. That encounter right there has made me decide to continue to do book signings even when I get to the point where I don’t have too. Never get to big to remember where you came from.
-- Paul Byers, author of Arctic Fire and Catalyst.

Is this why when people go to signings, so many fans seem stand-offish? As though they are afraid to get too close for fear of losing another author to poor people skills? Perhaps it’s the feeling of being ‘untouchable’ as well, but if you make your fans feel as though you are anything but an astral projection of a human, you will be accepted all the more. Remember, they put their pants on just like you do. They could be what you find fascinating, in fact they could be your hero (soldier, firefighter, etc).

It may seem so basic, but just always show respect. A thank you, a smile, a handshake. In a time where texting and acronyms rule the world, just remember KISS: Keep It Super Simple. It’s funny how success and money, the two things we crave to feel accomplished, always make things more difficult. Stephen King, one of the most well-known writers of our age, with books and small and large screen movies and fansites and more, is one of the most humble people I’ve ever heard of. My relatives lived a few miles from him and he was always giving back to his community - buying the kid’s baseball teams their uniforms, other supplies, and even coaching. That’s what success is all about.

Now, “Stan,” you’re saying, “who are you to tell people how to spend their time and money? We live in a capitalistic society where ‘more power to the money-maker’.” Absolutely. Congrats on your success! If you’ll have me, I’ll be the first on your doorstep to shake your hand, pat your back, and the like. But when times are tight as they are, and you are more than able to provide for your family, giving back to your community - the place where we all started back eight weeks ago - not only will establish you as someone community members feel as though they can trust, but will also give those looking for one, a role model. What’s more rewarding than that?

Being published is every writers dream. But on the journey to making a living by doing what you love, which at times is unconventional, many seem to forget that the publishing industry still requires the professionalism and courtesy that any other career requires, and perhaps even more so considering it’s one of the toughest industries to break into. Many writers come off of months and in some cases years of honing their craft, polishing and editing their manuscript, convinced that it’s the best book in the history of time. But regardless of the quality of work many writers must remember to be humble when trying to sell and promote their work. Here are a few key points that I’ve come across over the years:

- Value other people’s time as much as your own. Today’s society is fast and selfish. Slow down and remember that other people have their own lives to live, and they will get to you when the time is right.
- Listen more than you talk. There’s nothing more irritating than a “know -it-all.”
- It’s ok to be wrong. Apologize and move on. As much as you might feel judged, being true to yourself is the most important thing you can do.
- Give credit to others. Having been in the industry long enough to see things come full circle, burning bridges is the last thing you EVER want to do.
- Don’t be afraid to use the phrases; “it’s my pleasure” and “I’d be honored.” You be surprised how often people forget to be courteous.
- Avoid explosive reactions and try to understand where the other person is coming from. No good ever comes from negative emotions. If you don’t know where the other person is coming from, ask them.
- Know how to accept praise and say Thank You. This gets you further that you might think.
- Seek wisdom wherever and from whoever you can. After all, you are probably speaking or working with someone who is drawing from a vast amount of experience

We all understand that it’s hard to come out of such solitary work, where you have only yourself to hold accountable. But when it comes to being a public figure, realizing that it’s now about other people goes a long way.

-- Rachelle Gagne , Writer/Producer, Invictus Films & Chief Reviewer for TheNovelBlog.com

Don’t forget about those who are starting out then where you are now. It goes without saying that the biggest perk to having experience is being able to give back to those trying to get there with you. I cannot speak enough praises to people like James Rollins who always seem to make time for newbies.

Following suit, I would like to thank you all for following along. Without you, this blog would mean nothing - and I hope I make that clear on a consistent basis - your readership is so very appreciated. All of my friends and groups on Facebook and Twitter who help spread the word, you are all priceless and your friendship means the world. I thoroughly hope you gained some knowledge from these posts. I know a few of you have shared that with me, and through those comments you make this segment completely worth it. Thank you.