How to Successfully Write in Multiple Genres - article


Writing in multiple genres comes with its own set of challenges. To successfully write in multiple genres, you need to know how to overcome potential obstacles.

Of course, all authors and books are different. Answering the following questions will help you understand how writing in multiple genres affects you as an author. Keep your responses in mind when you review the challenges outlined below.

  • - What genres do you wish to write in and how different are the target audiences?
  • - What are your goals as an author?
  • - How do you define success for yourself as an author?
  • - Are you already an established author?
  • - How much time and effort can you commit to marketing your book?

Challenge #1: Author Branding Crisis

You need to build a strong author brand to be successful in the marketplace. For authors writing in multiple genres, branding can be a challenge. One solution is to write under pen names. This is especially helpful if you're writing in two very different genres, or if you're already well-known for a specific genre. Using different names allows you to brand yourself accordingly.

Successfully marketing to multiple audiences means doing market research, putting in extra time, and customizing your message...

Challenge #2: Multiple Audiences

Each genre has its own distinct target market. To successfully promote your book, you must tailor your marketing efforts to the specific audience you are pursuing. Successfully marketing to multiple audiences means doing market research, putting in extra time, and customizing your message, approach, and tactics. If you publish under more than one name, you'll need more than one Twitter account, Facebook page, and website. It's more work, but it allows you to target your audience in the most effective way possible. Don't expect fans of one book to read your book of a different genre. People like what they like and you'll find fans for your new book if you properly customize your strategy.

Challenge #3: Publisher or Agent Rejection

If you're already with an agent or publisher and you want to branch out into a new genre, you cannot expect your agent or publisher to offer you a deal. Publishers and agents specialize in particular genres and may not be interested. Also, being a multi-genre author adds complexity and difficulty to marketing efforts that many firms just don't want to deal with. However, that doesn't mean you can't or shouldn't publish in multiple genres. You may need to find another publisher or agent to work with you on a new project. Another option is self-publishing. It's not only a way to take the reins and be in control of your author career, it's also a great way to test the market for your new genre.

To be successful, follow the passion in your heart, and your readers will feel that passion when reading your book.

Challenge #4: Lack of Expertise

Can an author spread themselves too thin? Can you really be an expert in more than one genre? Only you can answer that question. You know the skills, available time, and passion you possess. You know the stories inside you, just waiting to come out. When you are driven to write in a new genre, educate yourself on that genre and the challenges you'll face in marketing to a new audience without abandoning your current audience. To be successful, follow the passion in your heart, and your readers will feel that passion when reading your book.

It is possible to write in multiple genres, but authors must be aware of the potential challenges and extra efforts involved. They must be confident in their craft as well. Then, with a little luck and a lot of hard work, authors can begin to forge many creative paths to success.

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