Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Amanda Stieff. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Amanda, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today It’s easy to look at a business or industry as an outsider and assume it’s super profitable – but we’ve seen over and over again in our conversation with folks that most industries have factors that make profitability a challenge. What’s biggest challenge to profitability in your industry?
The biggest obstacle I have faced is social media and advertising has a huge influence on if your book will be successful, or even seen. So this really comes down to if you have the financial backing to pay for advertisements (usually through other influencers on platforms) or you have a large social media following of your own. Unfortunately, being a teacher and a mom, I have not had the extra money to invest in making my dream come true. I also have not been able to invest the time, nor am I really confident in putting myself out there making social media content. Not having a social media following also effects interest of book agents and publishers. They want you to be established and already have a large social media following to take you on as a client. This has been a huge stumbling block for me in this process.
Amanda, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I have been an English/ Physical Education Junior High teacher for 17 years. I have always loved writing and creating stories. Working on my books has mostly been a hobby, until I had the idea for Pumpkin Kitty based off of a Halloween art project my son did a few years ago. I loved the idea that I could write a fun Halloween story teaching kids about self-acceptance and also include a science based learning element. After writing the story I then found an amazing artist through a Facebook posting. Working with the artist, Chelle Thompson, the story came alive. I was really proud of our final product, and it was really fun to create!
Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?
Use resources in your community. Many communities offer free business start up advice, they have lawyers and mentors that can walk you through the process.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
My end goal or dream would be to be able to make a living wage creating books. I feel like I could do amazing things is I could focus my time to one area.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Amanda Stieff Chelle Thompson