How do I get more reads, votes, and comments?
If you find yourself asking that question, then I have some answers for you.
What can you do to reach out to readers and potential readers? How can you encourage readers to comment and vote? What are...
Yes, there are book clubs on Wattpad! I've belonged to a few, and I have received some really good feedback, plus had members become readers. I've also read some terrific books I would never have found otherwise, and recommended them to others. And I've made friends along the way. It's an all around really good idea!
It's never been easier to find one than it is right now. You can search for it using the search engine since most book clubs are run out of stories on people's profiles. But! Before you take this step, please be realistic with yourself about how much you can handle. Don't join a bunch of book clubs, and then realize you don't have time to follow through with the commitment. And definitely don't bail the minute your book has been read. Not only do you risk making people mad enough to delete all their comments from your story, you'll leave a very bad impression. People won't forget.
If you do find you've overcommited for some unforeseen reason, do the responsible thing and let everyone know right away. Most likely, they will be extremely forgiving. If you have limited time, I recommend looking for a critic instead since the commitment is usually just one chapter.
Six - Be an active member of the community.
Read, vote, and comment on other people's stories. If you see someone who needs help, offer assistance. Make friends with other authors, especially those who are writing the same type of story you are and have the same number of reads. They're just as eager for feedback and encouragement as you are, and they will often become your very best, and most devoted readers. You can commiserate with them through the tough times, and celebrate all the goals and accomplishments each of you reach.
Try entering a writing contest. There are writing contests going on all the time, some sponsored or run by Wattpad, and some user run. Not only is it a good idea because it helps you improve your writing skills, it gives you exposure in the community. Many participants read each others works, and offer words of encouragement. You might even make some friends! You can do a search in the discover section for books titled 'Contest' or 'Contests' since they are usually run in stories.
Putting yourself out there really does make a big difference in helping people find your story.
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So... that's it. That's all my tips and advice. This is the 'hard work' I was referring to in the previous chapter. If it sounds like a big commitment, it is. But if you really want to achieve your goals, you have to devote the time and energy to it because it's not going to magically happen all on its own.
As I said before, I didn't set out to be Wattpad famous, I just had a story I wanted to share with as many people as possible - and through all my hard work, it happened. All of my friends who have achieved success like mine, or even far greater success than me, did exactly the same things. They focused on their writing and reached out in whatever way they could to help readers find their story.
And that's probably the biggest message I have for you.
If you're looking to be famous, I'm not sure it's going to happen, and I definitely can't help you. But if you have a story to share, realistic goals, and a willingness to work hard, with time, I think you'll be more than happy with what comes your way.
I really hope this guide has helped you. One last thing before you go. On my profile is a reading list called Read These For Wattpad Success! You can find many guides that are filled with great tips and advice about Wattpad and how to improve your writing. Also, Wattpad has created a Writer's Portal with lots of information and links. You can find it at https://www.wattpad.com/writers/
I wish all of you much luck and happy writing!
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<>Dedicated to Jewel1307 - Thanks for being a great Wattpad ambassador and mentor.<>
** Author's Note 6/6/14 **
When I decided to write this guide back in February of 2014, I never expected anyone would read it except for the people who encountered me while I was doing my ambassador duties and asked for my advice. I've been completely surprised and delighted at the positive response it's received. Hearing that so many have found what I wrote helpful, and have even come back to say my tips actually worked for them, has been wonderful and heartwarming.
But a side effect of having such a great response is that I'm now far busier thanking everyone who's added this guide to their library, voted, or commented than I was when I responded to each person who'd asked for my advice. As a result, I'm finding it difficult to keep up with my ambassador duties, writing, editing, and keeping in touch with my readers. I hate writing a guide saying 'Do all these things! They really work!' and then not do them, but I no longer have a choice.
So... If you've decided to follow me, added this guide to your library, or read, commented or voted on any of the chapters, THANK YOU! I really do appreciate it and I hope you find what I've written helpful!
