We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Eric Bishop a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Eric, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Do you think folks should manage their own social media or hire a professional? What do you do?
I take care of my own social media. At one point in time (a while ago) an author could simply write a book and submit it to a publisher. Those days are gone. Authors are now required to market their books. It does not matter if you are traditionally published with a big five publisher, or an indie writer. Social media is a must if you wish to sell books. The downside is all the time marketing takes away from what you should be doing which is write the next novel. The best advise is to limit social media time and focus as much s as you can on the craft of writing.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m a financial analyst by day, writer by night. I was born on this planet to tell stories. Unfortunately, it’s a difficult way to make a living. But I’m doing what I love and enjoying the journey. I’ve learned years ago that the difference between a published author and unpublished author is the published author never quit. It’s a rule of attrition. If you want to publish books, you must stick with it.
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Early on I only focused on the writing portion of the process. I did not factor in the business end of the publishing industry. I wish early in I learned more about the business side of things. I’ve learned a lot in the past ten years but could have saved myself a lot of heartache if I knew more about the business aspect from the get go.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
My goal is quite simple. This is no dress rehearsal. We’re living the journey as it goes on. I do my best to live in the moment and enjoy the journey, even the hard parts. Life is a gift and it’s up to each one of us how we receive it.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: ericpbishopauthor
- Twitter: EPBAuthor
- Other: Instagram: epbauthor