The Power of Engagement: How TikTok Managed to Score an Inspiring Writer a $460,000 Book Deal.
About a year ago, Alex Aster found herself dropped by her literary agent. The agent thought it was a good move after her YA fantasy book, Lightlark, failed miserably. Now, a year later, Alex Aster scored herself a six figures bool deal, a Universal movie deal, and her book cover plastered all over Time Square.
How Did She Do It?
Alex took to TikTok and asked her followers if they would read "a book about a cursed island that only appears once every 100 years to host a game that gives the six rulers of the realm a chance to break their curses".
Well, how does anyone achieve tremendous and quick success nowadays? It is always through social media. In Alex's case, TikTok was her prince in shining armor. You see, after her ordeal with her first book flopping, Alex took to TikTok and asked her followers if they would read "a book about a cursed island that only appears once every 100 years to host a game that gives the six rulers of the realm a chance to break their curses". The answer to her question was a resounding "Yes".
The book hit the bookstore last August and BookTok couldn't be happier about getting their hands on a good YA fantasy book. And, all Alex had to do is engage people on TikTok. On social media, there is a niche for everything, and all you have to do to have your success story is find your niche.
Who is Alex Aster?
Today, the 26 years old is a #1 New York Times Bestselling author.
About a year ago, Alex was an inspiring writer with one book, that didn't sell well may I add, under her belt. Today, the 26 years old is a #1 New York Times Bestselling author. She has been writing and trying to score herself a book deal since she was 12. She started writing and world-building Lightlark back when she was still in college. She accidentally stumbled upon BookTok after she was told "No" so many times by publishers and agents.
What is BookTok?
You might be asking yourself what is BookTok and why it holds so much power over publishers. BookTok is a subcommunity on TikTok. The community is made up of book enthusiasts who are focused on books, novels, and literature. BookToks on the app consists of book reviews and recommendations. But, for authors and publishers, the community offers a chance to promote their newest releases to a group of very interested people. The community holds a lot of power over publishers because of one little formula. Engagement equals sales. According to BookScan, BookTok has helped authors sell 20 million printed books in 2021 and publishers have taken notice.
Engagement over social media is not just for vanity metrics, it is an effective and efficient way to promote your business. Whether you are a writer, a designer, or a business owner, social media marketing is the way to go. If you play your cards right, you will engage people who are already interested in your products. This is why at Nuelink, we help you manage your social media platforms, TikTok included, to allow you to connect with your niche audience.