Okay, so there’s an article in the current RWR this month about author promotion for the unpublished author. I could go on and on and ON about how I disagree with just about every idea in the article, but I decided that it would be better if I just took issue with one little thing, because it will be conference season soon. Registration for the RWA conference in Nashville just opened up a few weeks ago and I’m sure a lot of aspiring authors might be thinking about whether or not they are going, and if they are, if they are going to meet or pitch agents or editors.
Which leads me to the subject of business cards.
Do you need them?
The article says you need to have these (along with matching stationery, envelopes, fax coversheets, etc.) Unless you own a printing press…don’t do any of this. It’s expensive and unnecessary.
*I* have published 35 books and counting and I don’t have fancy stationery, envelopes or fax coversheets. I don’t need them. My agent has these things. That’s the cost of doing business. I have cute half sheets Carly got me from Design Her Gals with my website on them and I have a very simple, professional letterhead I designed in Microsoft Word that I print out on resume-style linen paper if I have to send correspondence, which I rarely do. Why would I need to spend money on anything more? You can make a very good, professional impression without spending a lot of money…particularly when you don’t have advances to finance these extras.
But back to business cards…they are very nice to have.
Essential? No. But nice to have? Sure.
Some editors and agents use business cards to keep track of who they met or who pitched them that they requested. Some agents and/or editors–if they ASK for a business card (more on this point later)–will get back to the office and hand the cards to their assistant so they can separate the genuine “you requested my manuscript at the recent RWA conference” from the posers and liars who say that even when they didn’t attend. (And yes, people do that.)
So if you’re going to the conference, get some business cards…BUT…and that’s a super-big BUT…do NOT spend money on these.
What I mean is, do NOT go to the trouble of paying a designer for some super design that is tied into your “BRANDING.” If you are unpublished, you don’t have a “brand” yet. It’s okay. There’s nothing wrong with waiting to brand yourself until you’ve, I don’t know, sold a book. It is utterly ridiculous to me for an author to “brand” themselves before they have a book contract.
Let me tell you why…what you THINK your brand is may not be what you end up writing.
When I first started in RWA, I was writing historical romances. Can you imagine what a waste it would have been if I’d spent a lot of money “branding” myself…only to give up on historical romances five years and many rejections later? And in the interest of full disclosure, my historicals made it into the hands of many agents and editors. I had lots and lots of requests for partials & fulls. I’m pretty sure that between the two historicals I had, just about every editor in New York read at least a query letter (if not more!) and at least a dozen agents did the same.
Then I discovered I didn’t want to write historicals anymore. I became a paranormal author.
That book didn’t get around much, but I didn’t sell until I started writing fun, sexy contemporary romance.
I would have had to change my “brand” three times before I had a book anywhere near making it to publication.
What a waste!
Now, see, I said I was just going to talk about business cards and I went off on a ranting tangent. Sorry.
(Well, not really.)
So, back to business cards. Do not spend money. Go to the office supply store and buy some nice card stock or pre-perforated business cards, go into Microsoft Word or your program of choice and design a nice, simple, PROFESSIONAL (spare us the hearts or blood-dripping roses) business card with your name and contact information. I’d keep that to your blog/website/email address. Don’t put your phone number or your address. You want to be able to hand these out as you network with other writers and do you really want strangers to have your phone number and home address?
But back to editors and agents…if an editor or agent wants to contact you, they will do so through the manuscript you sent them, not a business card. Until they have your work in their hands, they have no need to call you or send you a letter at home.
You can also get free business cards at places like VistaPrint or PrintforLess or other companies who offer this as incentive to do business with them. Remember, don’t go for “memorable” or branding because chances are, you’re going to end up with cheesy. Go for simple. Clean. Readable. An editor or agent isn’t going to buy (or offer to represent) your book because the beach scene on your business card was really serene. They’re going to buy your book because you have a great, marketable story that they’ve read in full and love!
My last point: business card etiquette.
Believe it or not, there are guidelines for handing out business cards. Rules? No. There are no business card police. But if you want to make a good impression with editors and agents, most published authors that I know agree on one thing–do not OFFER an editor or agent a business card.
WAIT TO BE ASKED.
Why? Editors and agents very few reasons to actually WANT your card (I already listed the one reason at the top of this blog.) If you offer (or worse, shove it at them in an elevator or bathroom stall) they will take it because they are being polite, because contrary to popular belief, most of the editors and agents I know are VERY polite and do not want to hurt, insult or otherwise intimidate writers. But, as I also pointed out earlier, they really don’t NEED your business card. Shoving one into their hands or offering before they’ve asked simply puts them into the uncomfortable position of having to take yours when they really don’t want it or worse, it forces them to EXCHANGE business cards–and many editors and agents don’t give out their cards willy-nilly.
The bottom line is, give the editor or agent the chance to control the business card situation. Have some with you in case you are asked, but do not offer. DO NOT expect an agent or editor to give you their card, either, and don’t ask for one. If you need contact information, you can Google that editor or agent when you get back to your computer. (Some editors & agents use their cards as keys to get past the mail room and assistants. That’s why they don’t give them out to just anyone. Also, some don’t want their phone numbers or email addresses going out to unpublished writers as they do not use either of those avenues to communicate with writers who are not their clients.)
It’s just good, professional behavior–in publishing. Publishing isn’t medical sales or banking or any other business. The accepted modes of doing business in other industries don’t always apply. Before you throw yourself into the publishing industry, take the time to find out how it works.
Like by reading this blog on Saturdays.
Sorry for the readers who stopped by today hoping for a new author to meet or books to win! This Saturday’s post was all writing related. Come back tomorrow to check out the winners of Erica Ridley’s Wednesday contest or Janelle’s Friday contest…and come back MONDAY for another big contest from me!
By all reports, Julie Leto was a sweet child once, somewhat shy, preferring to play quietly in her room making up stories. However, being raised with three brothers in a loud, primarily Italian household did have its influences and Julie discovered her inner tough girl. That’s probably why most of her heroines kick serious butt. Writing sassy heroines has worked out, as she’s sold nearly thirty books to three publishers featuring strong, confident women. Julie lives in Florida with her husband, daughter, spoiled dachshund, enormous guinea pig and a wide range of relatives all within driving distance.
ANOTHER WILD WEDDING NIGHT
Hard to Hold
Love Me If You Dare
Wild For Him
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Hey Jules, thanks for the info. I haven’t even thought of that route, so I am good. Conference time for me right now is networking, learning and hanging out with the authors I love. This is very valuable information for me right now though. I think that once I have written more and feel comfy with myself in this particular business, I will worry about business cards. I will definitely keep your tips in mind.
You are going to be here on Monday? Did you switch with Janelle?
Have a great day everyone. I will swing back in later to see what kinds of fun things are going on here.
Peace and love,
Paula R.
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Hey, Paula…yes, Janelle and I switched. I have a question to ask everyone and I need an answer sooner rather than later, LOL!
I think you’re smart not to worry about business cards now. You’re perfectly capable of getting in touch with people you meet without them. They’re getting close to obsolete!
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Can’t wait to hear what the question is?
The internet has definitely made it easier to get in touch with people. I actually had some business cards made up for my poetry book, but that was part of the package I got through the pub company. I still have most of em, since I was too lazy to do anything with em. Oops. I stressed about not having contact info on them, but I like how they came out. It has a brief summary of what’s in the book and where you can get em. That’s all you really need anyway.
Peace and love,
Paula R.
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I didn’t know anybody still did business cards like that…I hardly ever see them…and when it comes to authors…I’d much rather those cute little pens and trinkets like notepads with the names on them anyhow…because someones gonna use it and remember your name…Take my ratty mousepad…still use it ….because it came from Janelle years ago…and I love it…and until two weeks ago my computer coaster was from Janelle too..only it stuck to Autumns glass from condensation and fell off and shattered…but we won’t go there…she still feels guilty….AS SHE SHOULD!!! LOL
anyway…personally…I don’t think I’d bother with Business cards either.
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Diana’, I still have the jar opener Janelle did years ago! I love that thing!
But you made a good point…I know UNPUBLISHED writers who have spent a lot of money on “promo” items like pens for the goodie room at RWA. WHAAAA? I think it’s a waste of money unless you have a book that people can actually buy. It’s fun to buy the little tchotchkes, but it’s an unnecessary expense for someone who doesn’t have a writing income, IMO.
Janelle always did the best tchotchkes, though, didn’t she? Carly, too. They excel in that area.
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yep…I agree. They always do the best stuff. But you know what I think makes it the best stuff??? It’s because it comes from them and they are two of the nicest, sweetest people I’ve ever met….they could have given out spray painted doggie doo and I’d have still liked it because it came from them. It’s not so much about the stuff…its about the person giving the stuff…sorta like opening up a christmas present that you instantly think…omg…I hate it…who the hell gave me this crap…and you look and see it was lovely Aunt Kris who doesn’t have much and would go outta her way for anyone and suddenly…that thing you hated a couple of minutes ago is one of the most cherished items you’ve ever received. And yes…you keep it and don’t recycle it…LMAO
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Julie, Great advice–as always. And so true! I get my cards through VistaPrint, and love them. But I have to admit, except for sending one along with a submission or with correspondence re the Launching A Star contest (which I coordinated for 4 years), I don’t have much need for business cards.
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Hi, Leigh! I can’t remember the last time I gave someone a business card. I usually forget to carry them. I always say, “Just contact me through my website.” I might hand them a bookmark if I have one. (Usually a Plotmonkey bookmark because I haven’t done one of my own in years.)
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Julie–great article. Thanks!
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Thanks, Gillian!
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Julie, I never thought about the “no address or phone number” on the cards. I think I’m going to have mine reprinted for Nationals anyway, and that’s a good tip. I use VistaPrint for a lot of my printing and promo items. I’ve found them to be reasonable and their quality excellent. I use their freebies whenever possible, too!
Great advice!
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Silver, it’s just a privacy thing I’m obsessed with.
But honestly, if you need to give someone your phone number, you can just jot it on the back.
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Hi Julie, you got us readers this week with this post!! But.. I have a business card story too. I was going to do crafts and sell them and bought 1000 cards for my new business. I make the crafts to give as gifts and have never SOLD one. But, I LUV looking at my cards !! They’re there waiting for me if I ever make enough items to sell. They’re not what you’re calling “branded” so I’m ok. I don’t regret buying the cards cause they’re pretty!! Also wanted to say I LUV your note paper with you and the doggie!! And.. I didn’t realize where the bookmark was from till I saw the site today, duh!! I got my 4 bks last Monday, very fast Media Mail!! Ty verrry much!! Boy of Summer was FAB!! I’m into sports reads right now!! Have a good wk-end, thanks, Sue
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You know, people criticize the USPS all the time, but I find them HIGHLY efficient! The media mail seems to be reaching people rather quickly, so thanks for letting me know!
Back when I worked in a print shop, I had business cards made for a friend of mine who NEEDED to be a caterer. I designed the cards (as I was the typesetter) and had them printed on a nice linen with blue ink. They were gorgeous. It was a gift meant to inspire her to go for her dream.
She only ever did one or two catering gigs before she gave it up, unfortunately, but her cards were beautiful!
I think business cards for OTHER BUSINESSES (like Crafting) might be more effective, but for writing and in interacting with publishers and agents, it’s simply an added expense that unpublished writers don’t need.
I’m glad you shared your story and that you enjoyed BOYS OF SUMMER!
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Julie, THANK YOU for your post. I totally agree. I skimmed that article and shook my head the whole time. I promoed the living crap out of my e-books and it made NO difference whatsoever. NONE NADA ZIPPO! I did tons of chats. I didn’t expend money on bookmarks or any of that kind of thing. But chats were a total waste of time. Personally, I think the thing that sells books is WORD OF MOUTH. No amount of business cards, expensive letterhead, chats, bookmarks, tchotchke…is going to help you garner the interest of an editor or agent OR sell books. Only writing a great book will do that.
As far as branding, your statement about waiting until you sell was an eye opener. You are the only person I’ve ever heard say that. Everyone else says you have to decide on a brand now and stick with it. And never write in another genre or sub-genre. You have to make up your mind now and God help you if you want to write something else.
Thanks again for the great post,
Cher
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Cher, I’m glad you had to same reaction to that article that I did. On the whole, I found it irresponsible for RWA to print something that was so off-base, IMO. And I’m not the only published author who thinks so.
As for branding, it just takes a modicum of common sense to see that branding when you are unpublished is not only a lesson in frustration, but also illogical. I think the focus on publishing quickly is the problem–authors are no longer encouraged to take time to learn the craft, learn the business and learn about themselves as writers. It’s all publish now, now, NOW! Yeah, well, there are downsides to that, not the least of which is branding yourself in a genre that may not really be for you (like me with historicals. I love them desperately as a reader, but it’s not my thing. It doesn’t fit my voice.)
Anyway, glad I could be helpful.
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I didn’t think of using business cards (as a SAHM) until my boys were older. For example, using them when you are at a park and you meet another “mom’ and your kids get along to arrange for a playdate (or even at preschool pick up for fellow preschool moms for the same reason). I was going to suggest VISTAPRINT or there’s another one if I come up with it (it wasn’t the one you suggested). I’ll think on the name of it. It’s also free, just pay for shipping :)
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That’s a cute idea, Katie. Like calling cards for the playground set!
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Hi Julie!
Great post! Thanks for the helpful advice.
This whole idea of business cards at RWA National was also discussed in detail on one of the RWA loops, I think the PRO loop. Someone even suggested you put your picture on your business cards so the agent/editor will remember you. (Have you seen business cards with a writers picture on them? Doesn’t that seem a little hokey?)
Another reason not to get thousands of business cards printed up…..a while ago I had business cards printed for my consulting business. Three months later New York State changed my area code from 914 to 845 and I had to get a whole new batch of cards.
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We are writers, not real estate agents. And how many of us actually LOOK LIKE our pictures, anyway?
I’m sorry…but that’s really silly, IMO. If I may be frank (and since it’s my blog, I guess I can, LOL!) this is just aspiring authors trying desperately to stand out in a crowd, when in truth, the only part of them that needs to stand out is their work. Buying and designing fancy business cards (and website and blogs) gives aspiring writers the ILLUSION that they are doing something about their career. And hey, if they’ve got the time, go for it. But most would be better served by writing more and writing better.
I’m not saying the writer shouldn’t be a professional, but that doesn’t mean selling yourself over selling your work, which is what this article seems to advocate. I don’t agree that this is either smart or cost-effective.
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Hi Julie ~ Thanks so much for this post. You’re always the voice of reason, and I value your advice so very much. Your honesty and integrity are greatly appreciated by this aspiring author. BTW – I made my business cards at home. Bought the business card paper at Staples and did a simple design. (Must say I feel much better about the homemade factor now.)
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In the beginning of my writing career, I had business cards made and NEVER, EVER used them. honestly, they were a waste of money. Like Julie said, if you feel the need to have a business card, make your own – as you need them!
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Exactly. Before each conference, if I remember, I print out one sheet, which is about six to nine cards. I pretty much never use even that much! If I use ONE it’s shocking.
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Awesome post, Julie, and I totally agree.
Now I guess I should try to find my RWR, which I tossed into a pile of mail somewhere when it arrived. I think I want to read that article!
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Well, be prepared for your eyes to bug out. The suggestions by and large are a huge waste of time and energy that most authors could better use by writing more.
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I agree with Julie. No business cards! Even as a published author, I have them? I can’t tell you the last time I used them. As someone who spared no expense for years and years, all I can say is NOTHING IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN THE QUALITY OF THE BOOK! If an editor wants to find you, THEY WILL~!
Save your money!
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Thanks for chiming in. I knew I wasn’t the only one who didn’t use business cards for…well, for anything!
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Oh, business cards are for dropping into the “drawing for a free lunch” fishbowl at my favorite stop. I win a couple of those a year. lol
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You know what, as an unpubbed writer, I can’t even fathom “branding” myself. I don’t even know what genre my work will fall into yet. I know what I want, but there is a big difference between what is coming out and what I want. Anyway, I didn’t think authors started out branding themselves, it just kinda happened. At least that is what I thought. Did any of you, plotmonkeys, have a brand in mind for yourselves? I get the sense that it sort of evolved, like with Janelle’s Wildes. I feel like the more well-known an author becomes, their books become recognizable and they are “branded,” if you will. Nora Roberts/J.D. Robb comes to mind, J.R. Ward, Jessica Andersen, Allison Brennan, Robyn Carr, Carly…Am I way off in thinking that?
Peace and love,
Paula R.
Peace and love,
Paula R.
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No, you’re not off at all. As far as I know, all the authors who are now “branded” did so completely organically. The brand grew from the work–not the other way around.
A very astute observation, Paula!
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Okay. I am gonna pull out my RWR and see what’s what. I didn’t get a chance to read it when I first got, now I have to look at it.
Peace and love,
Paula R.
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I am so glad you addressed this issue! It is overwhelming for the aspiring author to think of putting forth the time, effort and money for branding.
If you don’t get the books written and out there you have no need of branding, and who knows which genre is going to get picked up. Don’t get the cart before the horse. The only thing I would do sooner rather than later is look into getting your domain name if you really need/want it to be something specific.
Thank you for reminding us we are capable of writing our own happy endings – without a boat load of bells and whistles.