Guest Post From Victoria Warren Jackson

The possibilities in the publishing industry are endless. I have been involved with self-publishing for over fifteen years, and it has been an extremely rewarding adventure. I have managed to meet hundreds of people from all across the world by just getting involved in social media, appearing on blogs, and sharing my book trailers.

When I started out in the publishing industry, I was new to this arena without any resources. I sent an email to author, Kimberla Lawson Roby who responded with lots of ideas and guidance. I followed her lead and purchased a book by Dan Poynter. It was so amazing. I followed all of the steps in his book. I self-published my first book with ease.

I then joined several different author operated websites. I signed-up to receive weekly or monthly newsletters from authors, which provided additional information about the publishing industry. I have to admit it has not been easy, but for the most part I have met some really fabulous people.

Social Media has grown so much over the years. I am still learning about the many opportunities to promote and market my books through Social Media. I am enjoying the connections I have made with other authors who offer valuable advice. I feel honored when readers see my Twitter account or Linkedin account and they email me. I am always happy to answer any questions from authors and readers. I have truly grown to love the publishing and writing industry.

I did send query letters to many agents and publishers who sent me a generic rejection letter. I was discouraged but was not aware this happens to many authors. Some of the most famous authors have been rejected by big publishing houses.

I do not have to leave my home to promote and market my books. I search the Internet for my topic of interest. Then I make contact with the persons who I am seeking help from. If I have to pay a small fee for their services, I will. I have noticed how many organizations have worked with me to make my dreams a reality.

I truly feel as though the path to becoming a published author has gotten easier. The resources are endless. I would advise anyone who has the dream of getting published to just do it! Do not wait on a traditional publisher. Times have changed and so has the publishing industry. It only takes a little bit of faith and courage to become a self-published author. Seeing my work in print is truly a gratifying experience.

I am not a famous author yet, but I am hopeful about the future. I am having so much fun meeting new people and publishing my work. I have been accepted into a new family. I have definitely made new relationships. Deciding to become a self-published author has enhanced my life for the best. Even if I never make it on the New York Times Best Sellers List, the friends I have gained over the years are priceless. I am excited about what the future holds and the little perks I am gaining along the way

Bio: After graduating from high school, Victoria earned an Associate in Arts Degree in Broadcasting Journalism, a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature, a Bachelor’s Degree in Dietetics, a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, and an Educational Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership.

Victoria has been an educator for sixteen years and began writing her first novel while teaching middle grade students. Victoria soon realized that writing is therapy and continues to write daily. She is the author of three books, Can You Feel Me? Intimate Poetry, Not Just Us, and Untraditional Love In The Dark. Victoria currently lives in Florida.  www.victoriawarrenjackson.com

Brian Feinblum’s views, opinions, and ideas expressed in this blog are his alone and not that of his employer, Media Connect, the nation’s largest book promoter. You can follow him on Twitter @theprexpert and email him at brianfeinblum@gmail.com. He feels more important when discussed in the third-person. This is copyrighted by BookMarketingBuzzBlog © 2014