When authors think about promoting their book, they usually think how to get the word out online. People online today want a more visual experience when reading content. Using images such as memes have a number of benefits including the strong level of engagement, and the ability to touch peoples' emotions. The text of a blog post is often tedious to read and images can break up writing into bite-sized chunks that are more "digestible."
So what is a meme?
Simply put, a meme is an entertaining image with text that can help stir an engaging conversation among your fans. Most online content gets ignored, but memes along with videos get many social shares because they are funny, informative, and resonate with people culturally. They also speak some kind of personal truth. It's a strong form of advertising. Think of those funny images you see on Pinterest and Facebook. Many authors are sharing them to promote their books.
Use Memes to Brand Your Book
A meme can brand your book and name depending on this meme is created. Branding helps create a platform and an online persona. One way to use memes to brand your book is by complementing visuals and text. For example, if your book is on the subject of happiness, create a fun visual with a quote that says, "you can't pin your life on someone's life." Visuals that complement the text will engage your audience more effectively as opposed to the wrong visual or irrelevant text that can distract your reader from your book links.
Use Memes to Create Community
One well-known writer's memes are in fact, a series of helpful and informative posts based on the struggles of his target audience and his own experience. He offers advice which reinforces his "brand voice." Memes that uplift the reader can help with the process of creating community. Often readers like myself, will be moved to share a writer's universal message and in this way, we create community which in turn, increases a writer's platform.
Use Memes to Boost Sales
Sales is the marketing force of memes. It may take several times to convince your readers that your book is a must-have, which is why the visual aspect of a meme can be so appealing. Here are some ways to use memes to boost sales:
•Be strategic with the kinds of memes you post. Does the theme of your meme tie in with a special event lime Mother's Day? Plan a series of memes around evergreen days.
•Be strategic with the physical space of the meme. In the corner of the meme, include a thumbnail of your book and at the bottom of the image, include the URL where your book can be purchased.
•Be consistent with your book's brand. Always find a way to tie the message of your book with your book.
•Find ways to target specific audiences like special sales. (non-book store audiences.) What target audience could you share your meme with? For example, if your book deals with mother-daughter relationships, could you share in a mother-daughter type online group?
As you can see, memes are powerful visuals and can help build an author's platform. It's one of the more valued mediums when it comes to building an engaging audience.