By Adam Cothes

It’s been said there is no better advertising than word-of-mouth. So how do you encourage word-of-mouth advertising so people know about your book and tell others?

Start with the most immediate group of people who know and like you. They include friends, family, co-workers, and community groups and church.

From there consider turning your sights to social networking. Social Media websites such as Facebook and the Christian social networking site, Xianz, allow authors a great chance to expand their network of friends and associates quickly and easily.

By setting up an account, entering the things that interest you, and searching for “friends,” you can open up vast opportunities to share your message. Once your new friends get interested or excited about your book, they may just tell their friends as well.

Here are some tips to makings friends through social media:

1.  Select Details

Give targeted details about yourself, your interests, and your book. However, be selective about the information you put on your social media profile in order to protect your identity and privacy.

2.  Warm Photo

Use a professional photo that is warm and friendly.

3.  People You Know

“Friend” people you know. Invite them to visit your fan page and ask them to leave a comment.

4.  New People

Search for people with similar interests, and reach out to them. Ask them to be a friend.

5.  Mix It Up

Post interesting information about your hobbies, as well as your book on your social media page. This lets people know you’re not only there to promote your book and builds trust.

6.  Frequency

Review and update your social media outlets frequently. Make a goal to do so twice per week.

7.  Interact

Don’t just look for others to post on your page, go to other pages and post comments. Be sure to ask and answer questions.

8.  Events

Create events on Facebook, and invite friends and fans to attend.

As you make friends on social networking websites, remember that people take the term “friend” seriously. Nurture those relationships and think of them as more than a chance to market.

The more you can build trust and respect long-term, the better chance you have to impact lives and spread your message.

If you participate in a social media channel, share your best tip for successfully interacting with others via social media.

Adam Cothes is a Solutions Advisor for WinePress Publishing, as well as a publicist. His experience in the Christian publishing industry spans 10 years and ranges from managing a Christian bookstore, to project management, publicity, advertising, and marketing.