Novels? Huh.
The modern era has a lot to offer not just for millenials but for people of all ages and from different walks of life. One of the best example is sharing your talent. There are a lot of platforms that you can use to showcase your talent and catch people's attention. For example, if you are a writer, the online world gives you perfect opportunities to share your writings to a wide range of readers. Back in the old days, you'd really need to buy a book on your nearest bookstore or visit a library to be able to read fiction novels. But now, you can easily and conveniently read books on your cellphone anywhere you want. It's definitely easier and more convenient.
One of the most popular platform for writing online is Wattpad. But there are a lot of famous writers there and it would be a challenge to be like them. So, how do you catch the attention of online readers? How do you gain loyal readers?
1. Choose a genre that you're most comfortable with.
It's good to be experimental and try new things once in a while. But for starters, stick to what you know most. Find your comfort zone, master it before you try to venture into other genres.
2. "Never judge a book by its cover"
is a famous saying that even a six-year old child knows. But when you're writing online, forget about that saying. You are not an established author who has a bunch of loyal readers who would read your works no matter how crappy the book cover of your novel looks like. No, unfortunately, that's not the case. Most readers are very particular with visuals because it gives them an initial impression of the story's quality. Take time to learn on editing bookcovers. They don't have to look too impressive like it was edited by professionals. A simple and minimal design would do. Give them a slight idea of what the story is all about through the cover. Entice them. If you don't know how to photoshop, there are a lot of photo editing apps that you can download. You just have to be creative.
3. Make a catchy title and a brief summary enough to get their interest.
Make sure to pick the right words because it's a "make or break" and the deciding point of readers whether to read your novel or not. Take time to think and utilize a big portion of your creativity here.
4. Know your characters and take time to draft your novel.
It's like a map that will guide you to avoid getting lost while writing. Sometimes when you get too carried away by the scenes that you are writing, you tend to forget about the tiny details which would result to inconsistencies and plot holes. Of course you wouldn't to disappoint your readers and yourself, would you? So, having a draft will guide you to the right track.
5. Finish your novel no matter what it takes.
It might take some time, but by all means, finish it. Most readers wouldn't want to read an unfinished work. If you really want to become a writer then you have to discipline yourself. If you're having a writer's block, then take that as an opportunity to make researches and gather ideas and inspirations that you can apply on your works.
Write what you want to read. Stay committed to your dream and passion. Don't get discouraged by the lack of readers of your novel because someday, someone will read it and that someone will recommend it to other readers. Your time will come. You just have to be patient and keep on doing your thing.