Bri Clark the "belle" of Boise: 3 Ways to Gain Influence Online (That You Probably Haven’t Thought Of)

3 Ways to Gain Influence Online (That You Probably Haven’t Thought Of)

guest post by K.C. Neal

1. Provide Original Information

It seems like everyone is a content provider these days. It’s just so easy to start a blog or throw up a website. But how much of the content out there is truly original and useful? My background is in science and research, so I love data and original research. (Let’s hear it for writers who love advanced statistics! Hello…?) Last year, I put out a book blogger survey, and over 70 bloggers responded. One of the most popular posts on my blog is based on some of the data from that survey: The One Thing Book Bloggers Hate Most. It’s also one of my most commented-on non-giveaway posts. For all I know, I’m the only person who’s ever conducted a survey specifically aimed at book bloggers! That survey gave me tons of original information to share. I’ve written several posts about working with book bloggers and doing blog tours, and I’ve taught a couple of webinars on these topics. Ya see? Originality… authority… influence. Find ways to provide useful, original content, and I guarantee readers will get excited about it and be interested in what you have to say.

2. Spearhead an Event, Group, or Service

Early this year, an author friend and I joined forces to create Spread Love, Not Hate, and anti-bullying blog hop event. (I know! An event that had nothing to do with my book, or any book, or writing, or publishing!) One hundred people signed up to take part and blog about bullying, and it was an incredibly rewarding experience. Several people sent me private notes about how much it meant to them to be part of Spread Love, Note Hate, and many of the participants were bloggers I’d never spoken to before. Pick something that’s meaningful to you, or provide something that meets a need or fills a gap.

3. Turn Off the Laptop and Put Down the Smartphone

What?! Yes, I’m saying it: Step away from the internet. I promise it will still be there when you come back. One of my goals for 2012 is to do at least one IRL (that’s “in real life”) event per month related to my career as an author. So far, I’m keeping up with my goal: I’ve visited two junior highs and spoken to a few hundred students about writing and publishing, and I was a presenter at a local writers’ conference. Plans for more IRL events include a book signing, speaking to a publishing class at Boise State, attending a couple of conferences… and who knows what other opportunities I’ll find. As much as I love my online community of friends, nothing beats meeting and chatting with people IRL… and many of those people will become Facebook friends and blog followers, too. Look for the IRL events, organizations, and speaking opportunities that are all around you.

I hope I’ve given you some fresh ideas for expanding your connections and influence. Please find me online and say hello:

K.C. Neal on Twitter

K.C. Neal’s Facebook

K.C. Neal’s Blog

Author K.C. Neal is repped by herself. Her debut novel, YA paranormal Pyxis: The Discovery (StoneHouse Ink), has received enthusiastic praise from readers. K.C. is a co-founder of StoneHouse University, an educational resource for authors offering affordable and uniquely industry-current webinars on a variety of topics related to writing, publishing, and marketing books.

Well I just want to say that this is some great content. KC is an amazing author and a good friend and colleague. My favorite part I'd have to say would be the "IRL" Very interesting and something I will aspire to do as well.

Thanks KC.