We were lucky to catch up with Michele Packard recently and have shared our conversation below.

Michele, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Taking care of customers isn’t just good business – it is often one of the main reasons folks went into business in the first place. So, we’d love to get a conversation going around how to best help clients feel appreciated – maybe you can share something you’ve done or seen someone do that’s been really effective at helping a customer feel valued?

The most memorable experience for me in expressing appreciation to a customer involves acknowledging the significance of each interaction. Whether it’s a heartfelt exchange, a firm handshake, or simply expressing gratitude, these moments have a lasting impact. As an indie author, I deeply value every individual who reaches out to me regarding my work. Their decision to engage with me reflects a genuine connection to my creations, and it truly warms my heart. I believe in upholding the golden rule, treating others with the same kindness and respect that I would hope to receive. It’s about fostering meaningful connections and showing sincere appreciation for those who support my journey as an author.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Transitioning into the world of writing books was a natural evolution for me after leaving a successful career to prioritize caring for my three children, a decision I’ve never regretted. However, when the time came for my children to embark on their university journeys, I found myself at a crossroads, unsure of what the next chapter of my life held. Drawing on a lifelong talent for storytelling—something my family always affectionately dubbed as akin to Aesop’s fables—I decided to channel my creativity into writing. I crafted a fictional narrative that skillfully intertwined contemporary issues with historical events, finding immense joy in the process. The positive reception from readers further fueled my passion, and as I celebrate my sixth anniversary as an author, I’m humbled by the recognition received from both readers and fellow writers alike for my literary endeavors.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

In the realm of writing, particularly for independent authors like myself, there’s a prevalent notion that offering our work for free is a strategic move to gain traction in a market saturated with traditionally published authors. Initially, I embraced this strategy in hopes of increasing visibility, but soon came to understand a crucial distinction. It became apparent that readers who invest monetarily in a book or service are inherently more inclined to engage with it fully—reading, reviewing, and often becoming repeat customers for subsequent works. This realization was pivotal; I learned the importance of not undervaluing the effort and craftsmanship put into my creations. It’s a nuanced aspect of the writing business that may be challenging for those not intimately familiar with the industry to grasp.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Here’s the scoop on building your social media presence, sprinkled with a dash of humor from a conspiracy thriller author.

First off, pick one or two platforms that suit your style and goals. Whether you’re after a massive audience, some exposure, or maybe even a few extra sales, it’s all about finding your digital playground and figuring out what is your true objective.

Now, as for me, I only do IG. Why? Well, because I write about conspiracy theories of social media! :) I determined it was more beneficial to devote time to building my own subscriber base, but, I have been cultivating my follower count, all while using it as a crash course in connecting with readers and fellow authors. It’s like building a trade, but with memes and hashtags. Who knew?

Contact Info:

• Website: www.michelepackard.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stories/aesopstories/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelepackard/
• Other: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/michele-packard