The important part of our online life lies in the
interactions and conversations, which comes with
authenticity and patience.
We believe making these online connections is an
integral part of our call to write. It’s not a task we do
separately. Making a difference with our writing is a huge
motivator, and we’re missing the opportunity of impacting
others when we ignore building online relationships. The
people we interact with through social media and blogging
may never read our books, but they can be affected
positively by our writing.
We show writers how to influence the world now through
writing—and how all this feed into establishing a brand
others value and trust.
How did the concept of equipping writers with tools for
social media, marketing, and branding begin?
Edie and I were teaching at a weekend writer’s conference.
During a break, we talked about how so many writers didn’t
understand the need to establish a platform at the same time
they were learning the craft. Our discussion continued long
after the conference.
Our desire to equip writers with the tools for marketing,
promotion, and branding morphed into Mountainside
Marketing Conference. This isn’t an environment where
agents and editors take appointments and writers pitch their
work. Instead, it’s a safe place where writers of every level can
apply hands-on techniques to establish their brand and grow
their online connections. That’s why we require attendees
to bring a laptop. By giving writers a place to put what we
teach into practice—while we’re there to help. This way we’re
helping guarantee success.
What kind of information is covered at the conference?
For those just exploring this new digital world we offer
instruction beginning with the basics every writer needs for a
solid platform: a website—with a blog, Facebook and Twitter.
We take them through the process of registering for the sites
they don’t currently have and instruct them on how to use
them effectively.
For other writers who already have a presence, we show
how each platform differs and what value it brings. We
emphasize that social media, blogging, and branding isn’t
a one-size-fits-all endeavor. By giving attendees individual
and small group attention, they can leave equipped to grow
in a way that makes the most sense for his or her specific
situation.
What kind of workshops are offered?
In addition to the basics, we hold sessions on blogging,
BookBub, Goodreads, a book launch, street teams,
Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn, creating memes, e-mail
marketing—including newsletters and all forms of
funneling, text/opt-in marketing, and whatever else we feel
is important to building a platform. We stay up to date with
all the current changes and the laws that affect our online
interactions.
Do writers need to submit an application to attend?
All we ask for is a teachable spirit. Our attendees cover the
entire spectrum—from beginners, to newly published, indies
and seasoned writers—all who know the value of learning
how to build and maintain a solid platform. n
Writers who impact the world are willing to explore the
hard places of life—some through fiction, and some
through nonfiction. In today’s world, that also requires
venturing into the sometimes-uncomfortable digital realm
and acquiring the skills to accomplish it successfully.
There are many areas online where our words have the
opportunity to shine a light of hope and encouragement.
For more information and the next conference date visit
https://www.mountainsidemarketingconference.com/
& THE
Kim Hornsby
An accident takes Bryndle Moody’s, eyesight
and the life of her husband. A YouTube
celebrity and paranormal investigator, she
can’t summon her clairvoyance. Mysteriously
she inherits a house on the Oregon Coast,
and meets an elusive inhabitant with the ability
to restore her two lost senses. For a price.
#CHILL
TURN OFF YOUR JOB and TURN ON YOUR LIFE
Bryan E. Robinson PhD
Stop stressing and
learn to chill with
this mindfulness and
meditation guidebook.
Southern Writers 9