This is something I’ve been doing the past couple of days, since we had a workshop on the subject at the Women Writing the West Conference.
If you’ve published anything, you should register your author page on Goodreads and keep it updated so your readers can find you. You should be able to click “I’m the author” when you search for your title on the site, but if not, just contact a librarian at the website and ask them to add your book for you.
Another good thing to do is join some groups and participate. This doesn’t mean posting “Buy My Book” comments of course. No, social media is for getting to know your readers and letting them get to know you. Find some groups that tie in with what you write and start commenting and posting without mentioning your books (unless they actually are relevant, in which case, be humble about it). Keep up with the discussions and try to post something weekly (either a comment or new topic). This shows up on your author page so your readers know you’re an active part of their favorite website.
You can add your favorite quotes to your page, too. Look down on the left and you’ll see the right section. It’s down there with your favorite authors and genres and such. There’s even a Q&A session you can sign up for, and they email you if anyone asks you something. If nobody has asked any questions yet, Goodreads has some sample questions you can answer, too.
Goodreads will also show your bookshelf and what you’re currently reading. Be sure to always have your own book(s) as “currently reading” so they show up prominently on your page. Periodically, tweak the “percentage read” bar so the books show up in your news feed as well.
A fun challenge you can sign up for is their Reading Challenge, where you determine how many books you want to read each year. Goodreads then keeps track each time you add another book, and shows your progress on your author page. It also displays reviews, so be professional and courteous at all times — as I’m sure you already are!
What other tips do you have for Goodreads?