Today I’m going to answer one of the top questions I get asked: “I write in multiple genres (or hope to), how does this influence my platform and potential book sales?”
We’ll look at traditional vs. self-published authors, the impact on your author brand, your readers’ expectations and how genre-hopping ultimately plays out in terms of your writing career.
So, if you’re thinking of writing in multiple genres, watch the video below, and I’ll share exactly what you need to know.
If you’re trying to decide if writing in multiple genres is the right path for you, download the worksheet which goes along with this video here >>
Thinking of Writing in Multiple Genres? (Here’s What You Need to Know)
Traditional vs. Self-Published Authors: Does it Make a Difference?
Regardless of whether you decide to self-publish or traditionally publish, you need a way to consistently and efficiently get your work in front of the right eyeballs (a.k.a. your writer platform), if you want your books to sell.
Multiple Genres and Your Author Brand
Ideally, the “wise” course of action is to specialize. To conquer your niche first. Then branch out (if you wish) after you’ve gained some mastery in one area and have developed a sizeable following around that genre.
But ultimately, your goal is to link your name to an organic and dynamic brand that’s based on you and arouses a positive, emotional experience for your targeted readership – regardless of genre.
Audience Expectations: What Do Your Readers’ Want?
If you choose to experiment with different genres, be certain it is worth the risk of disappointing the readers you already have.
Creative Expression vs. Building a Career
Look at your goals and objectives for your writing career and determine the outcomes you hope to achieve. Your contentment with the results of your choice to write (or not to write) in multiple genres will be contingent upon the weight you place on the two ends of the art/business spectrum.
The Bottom Line?
There is no general rule that will fit all authors, other than this:
Be undeniably good.
– Steven Martin, Actor and Comedian
If you choose to diversify early, follow your Muse and write primarily for yourself, you may have to accept that the road to fame and fortune (if that’s your desire) will likely be longer and steeper than your specialized counterparts.
If your focus is on serving your audience, defining a brand that makes you instantly recognizable, and cornering the market on a specific genre, just know that you may have to sacrifice some creative freedom to get there.
In every case, you’ll have to be undeniably good to cross the finish line.
I’d love to hear your experiences – either in writing in multiple genres, or sticking to just one. How have your readers responded? Let us know in the comments below.
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