My good friend Cindy M. Hogan allowed me to interview her here as her new book, Created, comes out. Cindy is a Director with me at iWriteNetwork and one busy momma, writer, marketer extraordinaire!
It was all because of a crazy dream, not knowing anyone in the movie business and getting a bit schizophrenic. Basically, I had this ultra-real dream and thought it would make a great movie. I discovered, I didn't know who to tell, so I started writing down what I dreamed. That's when the characters in my story took over my brain.
2- What do you do to continually hone your craft?
I read all kinds of craft books about character arcs, descriptions, scene structure, etc. I also go to workshops and conferences. Most of all, my critique groups teach me so much.Oh, and writing, and analyzing that writing.
3- How do you market yourself and your books?
I have a blog, a FB page, and use Twitter. I am also a member of a lot of online groups that I participate in on a daily basis. Occasionally, I do blog tours, contests, and guest posts. Most of all, I think interacting with people you adore or admire is the best marketing tool, ever.
4- What is your favorite part about being a writer?
There is nothing better than the satisfaction of writing a scene that deeply moves you in one way or another, where you find yourself holding your breath, crying or shouting with joy. It's also fun to get fan mail everyday. :)
5- How do you fit writing, marketing and everyday life all together?
Scheduling-which I'm horrible at. You have to know when to say no for sure. It's all about balance. I make a list everyday-because I love the satisfaction of checking something off, and try to decide the most important things. I do them first. Some days I just don't get to everything even when everything on my list is important. While I try to keep up with everything, sometimes things fall through the cracks. When that happens, I know I'm out of balance and need to rearrange a few things. It's so important to have a heart to heart with yourself every week. Ask yourself if what you are doing brings you joy. If not, make the necessary changes.
BTW- I never spend more than one hour on social media except when I'm doing some sort of promotion. Social media can take you away from what is most important-writing.
Suggest three books for us (other than your own.) :)
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