Author's Edge

Allison Lane

Every week on the Author's Edge, you'll get practical tips to make your marketing journey exciting, straightforward, and effective! Allison Lane brings you ACTIONABLE marketing tips she learned through years of marketing big brands and books. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just starting your writing adventure, you’ll learn massive takeaways and hands-on advice that will elevate your marketing game.

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Episodes

#17 Overcoming Overwhelm: Simplifying Your Book Launch and Digital Presence
Sep 26 2024
#17 Overcoming Overwhelm: Simplifying Your Book Launch and Digital Presence
Send me a text!In this episode, the speaker addresses common feelings of overwhelm among authors trying to launch a book or expand their digital footprint. They provide three key strategies to streamline efforts and ensure success: maintaining consistency across owned platforms, elevating and consolidating your message, and understanding your audience’s needs. The speaker also shares a bonus tip on efficient content management and highlights the importance of cleaning up outdated digital assets. The buzzworthy book recommendation is 'Children of Darkness and Light' by Lori Hellis. The episode ends with an invitation for authors needing help with brand marketing to reach out.00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Your Book and Message00:42 Facing Overwhelm: Common Struggles for Authors01:22 Three Key Strategies for Success02:01 Consistency Across Owned Platforms04:25 Elevating Your Message05:53 Understanding Your Audience07:53 Recap and Final Tips11:52 Buzzworthy Book of the Week12:47 Final Thoughts and Call to Action📚 Resources Mentioned:Author Brand + Bestseller Launch School: https://www.lanelit.com/bestsellerChildren of Darkness and Light: Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell: a Story of Murderous Faith by Lori Hellis https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781639367108 @allisonlanelit LinkedIn @allisonlanelitFacebook @allisonlanelit 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and insights on writing and publishing! 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!
#16 Writing a Memoir That Sells: 4 Simple Steps with Allison K Williams
Sep 24 2024
#16 Writing a Memoir That Sells: 4 Simple Steps with Allison K Williams
Send me a text!In this episode, Allison Lane sits down with editor and author Allison K Williams to discuss the four simple steps to writing a memoir that sells. Both Allisons dive into the nuances of memoir writing and offer actionable advice for authors who want to craft a memoir that resonates and connects with their audience.Key Takeaways:1. You Don’t Need a Massive Platform  Allison K Williams dispels the myth that you need 100K followers to sell a memoir. Instead, focus on who your story helps and how it will resonate with them.2. Intersect with the Cultural Moment  Your memoir should connect with the current cultural conversation. Allison explains how stories that tie into broader issues or trends are more likely to attract readers.3. Choose Your Story (and Keep it Focused)  A memoir isn’t your whole life story—it’s about narrowing down to the most impactful moments. Learn how to choose which part of your life to focus on and avoid getting bogged down by unnecessary backstory.4. Draft, Draft, and Draft Again  Williams breaks down her "Seven Drafts" method for self-editing. From the "vomit draft" to character work and sentence polishing, this system helps writers avoid feeling overwhelmed.5. Engage with Readers  Connecting with your audience is key. Whether through social media, newsletters, or events, find a way to engage with those who need your story.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Writing a Memoir That Sells  01:43 – Meet Allison K Williams: Acrobat, Author, and Memoir Coach  02:32 – Parallel Lives: Writing, Marketing, and Agility  03:10 – Step 1: You Don’t Need a Platform to Sell a Memoir  05:10 – Debunking the Platform Myth: Famous Memoirs Without Big Platforms  06:21 – Why Agents Focus on Follower Counts  08:07 – Step 2: Intersect Your Memoir with the Cultural Moment  09:20 – The Power of Cultural Conversations in Memoir  10:06 – Step 3: Find Your Story and Keep It Focused  12:32 – Avoiding Backstory Overload in Memoir  14:01 – Using Telling Details in Your Story  15:35 – The “Throat Clearing” of Early Drafts  19:07 – Step 4: The Seven Drafts Method for Self-Editing  21:19 – Compassionate Critique: Free Monthly Writing Workshops  24:22 – The Importance of Memoir Titles and Subtitles  25:53 – Download Allison’s Free Guide: Writing Memoir Without Fear  27:32 – Final Thoughts: Writing a Memoir That Resonates  📗Resources Mentioned:Download Allison K Williams’ Writing Memoir Without Fear https://rebirthyourwriting.myflodesk.com/no-fear-memoir  This simple guide provides practical tips on getting started, choosing your story, and navigating tough interviews with people from your past.Allison K Williams’ Book: Seven Drafts: Self-Edit Like a Pro: https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781949116458 Allison K Williams: https://www.instagram.com/guerillamemoir/Allison Lane's free monthly Compassionate Critiques events, sign up https://lanelit.com/cc@allisonlanelit LinkedIn @allisonlanelitFacebook @allisonlanelit 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and insights on writing and publishing! 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!
#15 Quickie Q&A:  How to Host a Book Launch Party (Without the Stress) + Buzzworthy Book
Sep 19 2024
#15 Quickie Q&A:  How to Host a Book Launch Party (Without the Stress) + Buzzworthy Book
Send me a text!In this episode, we’re diving into the realities of hosting a book launch party. Spoiler alert: You don’t need a big, expensive event. I’ll walk you through simple strategies to make sure your book launch is a success—no matter where you hold it. What you’ll learn in this episode: - Why big, fancy parties are not necessary for a successful book launch  - How to make your event an ongoing marketing tool  - Simple ways to create signage and capture photos that boost your brand  - Key insights into the types of photos that help your book long-term  Timestamps:- 0:00 – Intro: The Reality of Book Launch Parties  - 2:15 – Do You Really Need a Launch Party?  - 4:40 – The Book Launch Party Myth: Carrie Bradshaw vs. Reality  - 6:10 – Where Should You Host Your Book Launch?  - 7:55 – Why Signage is Critical (and How to Make it Affordable)  - 10:25 – Essential Photos You Need to Capture  - 12:50 – Hiring a Photographer? What to Tell Them  - 14:30 – Using Your iPhone for High-Quality Marketing Photos  - 16:05 – What Contextual Photos Can Do for Your Branding  - 18:20 – Behind-the-Scenes of a Successful Book Launch: Jessica Waite  - 21:00 – Buzzworthy Book Mention: On Our Best Behavior: The Seven Deadly Sins and the Price Women Pay to Be Good- 23:15 – Wrapping Up: The Free Ultimate Author Event Checklist📗Resources Mentioned: 🎁 Free Ultimate Author Event Checklist: https://LaneLit.com/checklist2📅 Join my Author Branding & Bestseller School: https://LaneLit.com/bestseller📌 Check out the Manuscript Academy:  https://manuscriptacademy.com📘On Our Best Behavior: The Seven Deadly Sins and the Price Women Pay to be Good - https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9780593243053Got a question?  Email me at Allison@LaneLit.com.  If you have any questions, email me at Allison@LaneLit.com#BookLaunchTips #AuthorBranding #BestsellerMarketing #BuzzworthyBooks@allisonlanelit LinkedIn @allisonlanelitFacebook @allisonlanelit 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and insights on writing and publishing! 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!
Essential Tools for Your Author Appearances: From Podcasts to In-Person Events, and from Zoom to Stage
Sep 5 2024
Essential Tools for Your Author Appearances: From Podcasts to In-Person Events, and from Zoom to Stage
Send me a text!In this video, learn how to show up as your best self with confidence. Host Allison Lane shares insider tips and tools for preparing for podcasts, Zoom interviews, digital appearances, and in-person events. Key advice covers camera readiness, audio equipment, lighting, and essential grooming tips that no one else will tell you. Also mentioned is the buzzworthy book recommendation for enhancing productivity: The 15-Minute Method: the Surprisingly Simple Act of Getting It Done by Samantha Bennett. Don't miss these valuable insights for ensuring your expertise and perspectives shine through in every opportunity.Time Stamps:00:00 Introduction: Show Up as Your Best Self00:32 Prepping for Digital and In-Person Appearances01:03 Camera-Ready Tips and Equipment Recommendations02:42 Lighting Tips for Perfect Visibility04:15 Essential Tools No One Talks About05:32 Nude Lip Liner: A Must-Have for On-Camera07:43 Nose Hair Trimmer: The Unexpected Essential09:55 Buzzworthy Book of the Week11:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts📚 Resources Mentioned:Lights, Audio, Action free guide: https://lanelit.com/appearance-guideThe 15-Minute Method: the Surprisingly Simple Act of Getting It Done by Samantha Bennett: https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781608689064Nose Hair Trimmer: Norelco $12 at Target.Nipple Covers: Cakes https://www.instagram.com/cakesbody/Nude Lip Liner: NYX Cosmetics $5 nyxcosmetics.com@allisonlanelit LinkedIn @allisonlanelitFacebook @allisonlanelit 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and insights on writing and publishing! 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!
Building the Ultimate Author Website: Tips & Essential Elements
Aug 29 2024
Building the Ultimate Author Website: Tips & Essential Elements
Send me a text!In this episode of Author's Edge, host Allison Lane dives into the importance of an author website for building a professional brand. She provides detailed advice on creating and managing an effective website, focusing on elements such as clear branding, engaging design, a compelling 'About Me' page, showcasing work, and optimizing for mobile use. She highlights common pitfalls to avoid and offers practical action steps for auditing and enhancing your site. The episode also features a buzzworthy book recommendation, 'The Widow's Guide to Dead Bastards' by Jessica Waite, praised for its gripping storytelling and emotional depth.Time Stamps:00:00 Introduction to Author Websites00:50 Importance of a Professional Website01:29 Key Elements of a Successful Website02:09 Design Tips and Common Pitfalls02:48 Creating Compelling Content03:40 Showcasing Your Work04:50 Optimizing for Media and Contact05:22 Encouraging Email Signups06:44 Avoiding Common Mistakes07:35 Action Steps for Your Website09:44 Buzzworthy Book Recommendation: The Widow's Guide to Dead Bastards📚 Resources Mentioned: Kajabi: https://app.kajabi.com/r/XHNMfLXCJoin the free monthly Compassionate Critique events: https://www.lanelit.com/ccThe Widow’s Guide to Dead Bastards: https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781668044858  @allisonlanelit LinkedIn @allisonlanelitFacebook @allisonlanelit 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and insights on writing and publishing! 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!
Mastering Your Book Marketing: What Publishers and Publicists Really Do
Aug 27 2024
Mastering Your Book Marketing: What Publishers and Publicists Really Do
Send me a text!In this episode, we dive into the critical topic of marketing and publicity for authors, debunking common myths about what publishers do and outlining what responsibilities fall on you, the author. Whether you are self-publishing, hybrid publishing, or working with a traditional publisher, you'll learn why you are your book's best marketer. From understanding the roles of marketing and publicity to knowing when and how to hire a publicist, this episode provides actionable insights to help you manage your brand and maximize your book's reach. Stay tuned for tips on creating a comprehensive author package, leveraging media appearances, and planning your long-term marketing strategy. If you are gearing up for a book launch, this is a must-watch!📚 Resources Mentioned: Essential Author + Speaker Bio Package: https://www.lanelit.com/packageTime Stamps:00:00 Introduction: The Author's Marketing Dilemma02:21 Understanding Marketing vs. Publicity03:19 Debunking Publisher Myths06:44 The Role of a Publicist09:52 Publicity Costs and Budgeting11:58 Next Steps for Authors13:22 Conclusion and Final Tips📚 Resources Mentioned: Essential Author + Speaker Bio Package: https://www.lanelit.com/package@allisonlanelit LinkedIn @allisonlanelitFacebook @allisonlanelit 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and insights on writing and publishing! 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!
Transform Your Book Launch Strategy with NetGalley
Aug 22 2024
Transform Your Book Launch Strategy with NetGalley
Send me a text!The Best Kept Secret in Book Promotion: Why You Need NetGalleyIn this episode of "Author's Edge," Allison Lane reveals the best-kept secret in the world of book promotion: NetGalley. If you're an author gearing up for a book launch or someone who loves discovering new reads before anyone else, this episode is for you. Learn how NetGalley can help you gather early reviews, connect with industry professionals, and strategically position your book for success! Allison walks you through how to set up your profile, request digital copies or audiobooks, and share your reviews across major platforms. Don't miss out on this game-changing resource!Key Takeaways:- What is NetGalley: A powerful platform that connects authors and publishers with readers, reviewers, and industry pros.- Benefits for Authors: Early reviews, industry insights, and strategic positioning for your book launch.- How It Works: Step-by-step guide on how to set up your profile, request access to books, and share reviews.⭐⚡📗Resources Mentioned:- [NetGalley Website](https://www.netgalley.com)- Get access to Allison's exclusive list of favorite tech tools for authors: https://lanelit.com/tech  Hear about how I got free access to the buzzworthy book, The Art of the Interesting by Lorraine Besser, Ph.D. Whether you're an author eager to boost your visibility or a book enthusiast on the hunt for new titles, this episode is packed with actionable tips to give you a competitive edge in the literary arena. Don't miss out on this game-changing resource that can elevate your book's success!Time Stamps:00:00 Introduction to the Best Kept Secret in Book Promotion01:05 Unveiling the Free Resource: NetGalley01:43 How NetGalley Works03:28 Personal Experience and Benefits of NetGalley06:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts📗⚡⭐ Resources mentioned: NetGalley >>> NetGalley.comThe Art of the Interesting: https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781538743201 - Get access to Allison's exclusive list of favorite tech tools for authors: https://lanelit.com/tech @allisonlanelit LinkedIn @allisonlanelitFacebook @allisonlanelit 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and insights on writing and publishing! 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!
How to Package Your Book for Success and Announce Your Books to Early Readers
Aug 15 2024
How to Package Your Book for Success and Announce Your Books to Early Readers
Send me a text!How to Package Your Book for Success and Announce Your Books to Early ReadersAre you an author struggling to get your book into the hands of readers? You're not alone! In this episode, we dive into the art of book packaging with a real-life example. We'll break down how author Julie True Kingsley expertly crafted an advanced reader copy (ARC) package for her YA novel, "The Space Between You and Me."Get the book, click here 👉 https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781952143663p.s. Julie is Co-founder of the Manuscript Academy, Co-host of The Manuscript Academy Podcast, and Author of The Space Between You and Me. Discover the power of ARCs, the importance of compelling one-sheets, and the value of strategic press releases. We'll also discuss how to identify and cultivate your ideal advanced readers. If you're ready to elevate your book marketing game, this episode is a must-listen!Shownotes:The importance of ARCs in building buzzCreating a compelling one-sheet with key selling pointsThe role of press releases in book promotionIdentifying and cultivating ideal advanced readersThe power of strategic book packaging📗⭐⚡Resources Mentioned: Manuscript Academy: https://manuscriptacademy.com/podcast Julie Kingsley: https://juliekingsley.com/ The Space Between You and Me: Get the book, click here 👉 https://bookshop.org/a/55773/9781952143663 Manuscript Wishlist: https://www.manuscriptwishlist.com/Islandport Press: https://www.islandportpress.com/product-page/the-space-between-you-and-me @allisonlanelit LinkedIn @allisonlanelitFacebook @allisonlanelit 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and insights on writing and publishing! 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!
How to Use AI as an Author? Ethical and Practical Tips for Using Artificial Intelligence in Publishing
Aug 13 2024
How to Use AI as an Author? Ethical and Practical Tips for Using Artificial Intelligence in Publishing
Send me a text!How to Use AI as an Author? Ethical and Practical Tips for Using Artificial Intelligence in Publishing? Discover how authors can leverage AI tools ethically and efficiently in their writing process. Learn practical tips for using artificial intelligence to streamline your workflow, optimize your online presence, and save valuable time without compromising your integrity as a writer.Key topics covered:- Dos and don'ts of using AI in writing- How to use AI for website optimization and social media profiles- Time-saving AI tools for authors (Harpa.ai, Otter.ai, Descript)- Creating multiple book descriptions and author bios with AI assistance- Using AI to extract key quotes from transcripts- Ethical considerations when using AI in the writing processWhether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, this episode will help you navigate the world of AI tools and use them to enhance your writing without crossing ethical boundaries.Time Stamps:00:00 Introduction to Using AI for Authors00:57 Practical Tips for Getting Started with AI03:52 Common Pitfalls to Avoid with AI06:16 Optimizing Your Website and Social Media with AI10:10 Using AI for Content Creation and Management17:27 Leveraging AI for Transcriptions and Video Editing22:06 Final Thoughts and Best Practices📗➡️ Resources mentioned: Descript https://get.descript.com/mew7wqdktfsmOtter.ai https://otter.ai/referrals/G017XQA4Harpa.AI https://harpa.ai/@allisonlanelit LinkedIn @allisonlanelitFacebook @allisonlanelit 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and insights on writing and publishing! 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!
Trailer: Author's Edge podcast with Allison Lane
Aug 5 2024
Trailer: Author's Edge podcast with Allison Lane
Send me a text!Feeling overwhelmed by marketing yourself and your book?This introductory episode is your guide to navigating the publishing world with ease. I'm Allison Lane, and I'll be breaking down complex marketing strategies into simple, actionable steps to boost your publishing, marketing, and speaking efforts.Discover how to conquer marketing overwhelm and build a solid foundation for your author platform. We'll dive into practical tips for crafting a compelling author brand, leveraging social media, and mastering book promotion.Join me as I debunk common marketing myths and equip you with the tools to reach a wider audience. Whether you're a debut author or a seasoned writer, this episode is packed with valuable insights to empower your unique voice and share your story with the world.In this Episode, you'll learn:How to overcome your paralyzing fear of marketing overwhelmPractical strategies for building a strong author brandEffective ways to leverage social media for your author promotionTips for crafting compelling book marketing campaignsHow to debunk common marketing myths and avoid costly mistakesActionable steps to reach a wider audience and grow your readershipTime Stamps:00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:20 Overcoming Marketing Overwhelm00:36 Practical Marketing Strategies00:44 Weekly Insights and Advice01:06 The Importance of Clear Marketing01:22 What to Expect from the Podcast01:53 Empowering Your Unique Voice02:19 Answering the Call of Your Audience@allisonlanelit LinkedIn @allisonlanelitFacebook @allisonlanelit 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and insights on writing and publishing! 👍 Like, comment, and share this video if you found it helpful!