How to Start an AuthorTube Channel - Marketing for Authors

[@EmmaBennetAuthor]

I’m a newbie AuthorTuber and I’m so glad I found your channel.x

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Hope you enjoyed this video! If you have any extra tips to start an AuthorTube channel be sure to leave them in the comments below!

[@nohea_robertson]

For at least three years I've been going back and forth about joining the AuthorTube world! I have learned so much from you and several other AuthorTubers. Maybe one day I'll take the plunge! :)

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Oh please do! It won't hurt to try it out for awhile :D

[@JessBMoore]

Wonderful!! A fellow author shared this video with me today, and I'm inspired! Thank you!!

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Wonderful! Let me know if you have any questions!

[@matthewwolf5528]

Thanks for the video! Especially the comments about how most people's first few videos don't turn out so great. It's always comforting to hear that other people struggled in the beginning too, haha.

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Oh yes, the beginning is always a little rough! If you'de like to learn more, I have a Facebook group dedicated to AuthorTubers where I post tips: bit.ly/2JhamHY

[@TraciAnneCan]

I'm just starting out on AuthorTube and these suggestions are so great. Thank you for making the video.

[@storyworldofem]

As someone who just started out, this is really helpful! Have been watching you for a while and you're amazing! Thank you ❤️❤️

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Thank you!!!! If you'd like, I have a private Facebook Group all about AuthorTube where you can go to learn more and network with a few AuthorTubers. Always looking to add more people to the group! bit.ly/2JhamHY

[@TheGeminiJournalist]

I totally agree

[@Writinchic]

Hey! Thanks for this awesome video! I love that the books in your background are color coded. It makes my OCD brain happy!

[@essauthor]

I'm new to AuthorTube this year. Thanks for making such an encouraging and informative video. I am most excited about building relationships within the AuthorTube community, so thank you for making the space feel welcoming.

[@cleodel.krishna]

Hi!! I just started my authortube journey too. Because of you guys, I got the courage to pursue my passion!:)

[@sidmickle]

I just started my author page, Sid Mickle Publication. I enjoyed this video, and I have subscribed. I like your positive, clear commentary. Good luck and thanks.

[@bytheBrooke]

Wonderful tips as always! Talking to a camera and getting comfortable doing so took some time, but then eventually it's like talking to a friend bahaha. It sounds weird but it's true.

[@MandiLynnWrites]

So true! But you're such a natural talking to a camera! Your energy is one of my favorite things about your videos!

[@worldforge4739]

Late to the party, but thanks so much for the helpful video! I didn't even know AuthorTube was a thing, yet lo and behold, my eyes are opened wider than a protagonist whose love interest just got stabbed. Really appreciate the time you put into helping out newbies like me, and look forward to seeing more from you!

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Of course! Feel free to join my Facebook group, AuthorTube Academy, if you're interested in learning more about YouTueb! bit.ly/2JhamHY

[@ClaireCaseyWriter]

I've just come across this video. I've had my AuthorTube channel for a good few years now, but it has sort of died on it's feet. I am thinking about taking off all of my old videos and just starting again.

[@dreamlessdayz]

Just found this video, been watching other AuthorTubers for a while now, but want to start my own channel. Thanks so much for the info!

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Thanks, glad it was helpful!

[@wanjiruwaramaauthor4024]

Thank you for detailed and straight forward how-to video.

[@marybethgallagher5535]

Thank you Mandi for your comments. You are my first source for making a video for authors, and I didn't know AuthorTube channel existed. I'm a complete newbie at an advanced age, a retired nurse. I'll check to see what kind of equipment I need for better videos. What about having them done at a studio? Anyhow thank you again and good luck.

[@simeonwrites]

Thanks for this, Mandi! It was really helpful. 😀

[@gregwatson5315]

Nice video. I discovered AuthorTube today. I'm a little behind the curve.

[@evanj9593]

I totally relate to the bit about sticking to big picture 'how to' videos! Like, I didn't do that (and am still not completely doing it) and you're so right about its effects! Really valuable advice for anyone starting out on KZbin!

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Thank you! Glad to hear it was so helpful!

[@TheGypsy86]

You have such a lovely personality. I've been debating for a while about whether or not I should start an Authortube channel. I feel a bit better now. Thank you!

[@MandiLynnWrites]

That's great! Feel free to join my Facebook group as well if you'd like to learn more! bit.ly/2JhamHY

[@turnsole8610]

Hi Mandi. This is very helpful. I may try and start a channel. The main reason, because I'm new to writing...I started late...44 years old...and there are very few vlogs done by people my age. Thanks for posting this!

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Nothing wrong with being one of the first to jump into it! Best of luck if you decide to move forward with it :)

[@ShesFaith]

I'm a new young Authortuber !! Thanks for this video it really helped

[@authorveronique]

Thank you for all your wonderful tips. I feel KZbin will be my next step.

[@BrettMckay-cool2BUwriter]

Thanks for the tips. I've been writing and publishing thriller and horror books for a long time and I am finally now on KZbin. I need all the help I can get.

[@paigejohnstonauthor8081]

I’m so nervous to do this, but thank you! I’m going to give it a try. P,s; I’m totally scrolling to these old videos for a mental pep talk. 😂

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Good luck and have fun!!!!

[@ajmagicaltoys]

Thank you so much . I'm just about to set up my Author KZbin.

[@Fbaker04330]

I also liked what you said about Authortubers responding back to others comments. There's a few that I've tried to communicate with, that doesn't respond back. One I've been responding to for over a year. I wish other Authortubers would understand what you said here. It really does show you care if you respond.

[@MandiLynnWrites]

It can be hard to respond back to all comments. I actually make it a to-do list every day to make sure I stayed connected with everyone

[@ozzyrose7366]

Just started my Authortube channel--thanks for the tips! Good to know I'm not the only one who started off feeling awkward talking to an empty room ahaha

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Haha you'll get more comfortable over time for sure!

[@authoralaskawalters]

Thanks Mandi, that was so helpful 💙

[@authorcassandrastarling]

Just started my channel, but this video was very helpful. My first videos are awkward!

[@latinarompassionforbooksre6035]

this was so informative...I wish I would have had this in 2009 Lol!

[@roseandrews8523]

I just recently discovered your channel and love it! This video has been especially helpful given this is something I'm considering. Thank you and best wishes on your writing career!

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Thank you! If you do join in on the fun, I guarantee you'll have a blast!

[@annienorthbooks]

Such a great video Mandi! All of the points you mentioned are so helpful :) I'm so glad I joined AuthorTube this year, the community is just so wonderful and filled with supportive women who lift each other up

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Of course! I've been loving your videos! Keep it up!

[@AbbyCooperAuthor]

Just started my AuthorTube channel and this video is SUPER helpful! Thank you!

[@MandiLynnWrites]

That's so great to hear! I also have a Facebook Group called AuthorTube Academy you're welcome to join if you're interested: bit.ly/2JhamHY

[@wanjiruwarama2016]

Thank you for your clear and to-the-point video. I wonder whether an author can post a video directed at readers. as opposed to fellow authors.

[@SDHegyes]

Love this! It's all info I wish I'd known when I started my channel. Also, I love hearing about the equipment people use to film. ;)

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Awesome, I'll definitely make sure to do a video on it in the future!

[@raziimam.author4909]

Thank you for sharing your tips - this is very helpful starting out as an author on KZbin.

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Glad it was helpful!

[@BrianaMorganBooks]

This is a fantastic video! I've been on KZbin for a few years, but have only just now come around to working on building a community. Thanks for the advice! :)

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Awesome! Love seeing more and more people become part of this community!

[@jessicajurcan3525]

Like always, great video Mandi!

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Thank you!

[@Mymysterybook123]

thanks for sharing this valuable information

[@JaniceSeagraves]

Great tips, Mandi.

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Thanks! If you want more tips, be sure to head over to my AuthorTube Academy Facebook group: bit.ly/2JhamHY

[@KateCavanaugh]

Great advice on focusing on high-level first. People come for the content and then, after a few videos, stay for the personality. Do you have any advice for how to reach out regarding collabs? I've made several authortube friends but it feels like when I'm coming up with new ideas for videos I alwaaaays space on reaching out and seeing if anyone wants to join me. Do you think some videos work better as collabs than others? Oooh, can I second/third request a video for what equipment you use? You're so right about eventually wanting to upgrade what you shoot with. I finally bought a camera instead of using my phone, but am still left stacking books/laundry hampers/whatever to get my camera to the right height. I'd love to hear what tricks and tips you've learned! Even as someone who's already made videos, this was SUPER helpful. Thank you so much! :)

[@MandiLynnWrites]

As far as collab go try choosing a topic where you'll each be able to contribute three different tips (you can discuss what each of you will say beforehand). Or choose a topic where you'll each have a different point of view. I'll make sure to do a video on what I use to film soon, for now, my tip would be to look into a tripod for your camera. Your life will be 100x easier!

[@psych_chick]

Subbed on first video I watched. Great stuff :)

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Thank you!

[@BooksAreMyHart]

Great video. P.S. I love how your bookcase is organized by color :) so pretty

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Thank you! I love it organized by color!

[@aliekat1]

OMG! this was so informative! I seriously wished I would have had this in 2009

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Yeah! So glad you found it helpful!

[@Fbaker04330]

Finally! Some questions answered I've been asking people for about 2 weeks, and nobody would answer me. I have an idea for a channel. I'm not very good with, "How to write good dialogue" kind of videos, so I was thinking about doing a how to on writing with depression, or something along those lines? I just hope I don't stick out like a sore thumb, considering I'm a bit older than a lot of other Authortubers I've seen on here.

[@MandiLynnWrites]

AuthorTube welcomes authors of all ages! What I love about it is how inclusive it is :)

[@Fbaker04330]

Mandi Lynn Maybe it shouldn't be a big deal, however you're response made my night! Thank you so much! 😀

[@Fbaker04330]

Mandi Lynn Growing up, I left excluded from a lot of teenage fun, so I'm glad that the Authortube community is inclusive. Hey, maybe I can go an Authortube retreat, like you and some others did this year! :-)

[@kimberlybartley7694]

Great information. What authortubers do you follow?

[@MandiLynnWrites]

A whole lot! You can see some of my favorites on the right-hand bar of my channel :)

[@ajwinterbooks]

Love this! One of the biggest reasons I joined was to (hopefully) find beta readers because I have an AWFUL time at finding them/having them keep in touch. I found a Critique Partner who is amazing, but I can't always rely on my English Major friends!

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Haha sometimes strangers you meet on the internet are the best people to give feedback on your book!

[@brandonvaladez7250]

Thanks for the great info! I just started a writing KZbin channel, and this video helps a lot!!

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Great to hear! What're some of your favorite subjects to cover on your channel?

[@brandonvaladez7250]

I love subjects that deal with creating the book (characters, plot, setting, etc.) and things that happen in a writer's life!

[@MichaelButlerAuthor]

Great vid. Thanks.

[@ellewelch8488]

I'd love to see what equipment you use and your set up!

[@MandiLynnWrites]

I have an online class called AuthorTube Academy where I go in-depth with everything I do for my KZbin channel, including what equipment I use. If you'd like a coupon, just message me! bit.ly/AuthorTubeAcademy

[@lovefromhannahday]

thanks!! this was super helpful!!

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Glad it was helpful!

[@MaryKGowdy]

I really want to start a youtube channel, but I just feel so awkward in front of the camera. I'm trying to remind myself that it gets better with practice. Thanks for the encouragement!

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Absolutely! Good luck with your channel if you start one!

[@MaryKGowdy]

Thank you. I've already posted two videos. Let's hope I can keep this up!

[@EricThomasBland]

Great video

[@alinasartcafe]

Great vid, Mandi. I agree, the longer you're on youtube, the more quality obsessed you might get :D I'd say tag videos work just great at first. Maybe better than how-tos that a. you don't know much about or b. you're already competing with more prominent videos from larger youtubers. Tags are a fun way to introduce yourself to people and network with other authors at the same time.

[@MandiLynnWrites]

That's true! I also forget about tag videos! Great way to collaborate with others as well!

[@jchanniganbooks]

Create video! Thanks for the tips!

[@AuthorJanaeMarie]

I'm doing a three part series on How To Write A Book.

[@mickeymiles9394]

Great tips!

[@psyche8646]

Really nice video can u tell me how to create a authortube channel?

[@Kelly-Martin]

I would love to see what sort of equipment you use to make your videos. :)

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Awesome! I'll make sure to do a video on it :)

[@ellewilson5396]

I know that I am a year late, but is it okay to combine different types of videos as long as it relates back to writing and reading? Or should I stick to a certain niche?

[@MandiLynnWrites]

I'd saying reading and writing is your niche. From a marketing standpoint, it's usually best to pick one main topic and stick with it, but reading and writing is so closely related you can't talking about one without talking about the other

[@Shireishou]

Ah... I use my pen name and my channel theme (Free Writing tutorial). And... I wish I can have confidence to shoot my face on camera. And I don't know Indonesian author tubbers. I follow many author tube... But 99% is English. T_T I wish I can do collab

[@richardcranium6081]

Is there a space for key words on youtube to try and and attract people to our channels? This is all still pretty new to me. I have a channel as does my wife who is also an author.

[@MandiLynnWrites]

I like to think there's always space for more people :)

[@thegeekylibrarian360]

I wanted to start a writing channel, but my english is soooo bad xD I have norwegian channels allready, but don't want a writing channel in norwegian :P

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Haha so do you read and write in English or Norwegian?

[@thegeekylibrarian360]

I read both (also swedish and danish), but write mostly in norwegian :)

[@newtoatheism5968]

What if you start with progress videos

[@mysticbrady]

Thank you so much for that. I watch all of ur videos and all of them are tres cool! Please explain exactly how I can be on author tube..I am old school and old.lol I'm a children's book author and artist, My 1st book is called WHEN IS MOMMY COMING HOME..BY KATHLEEN BRADY SIMPSON..HOPE U CAN HELP ME XO

[@MandiLynnWrites]

I've got a fun project coming out soon talking all about Authortube, so if you want to stay up to date with that, subscribe to my newsletter: bit.ly/2F87SYG

[@WriteHollyDavis]

I had fun watching this even tho I already have a channel. Lol

[@MandiLynnWrites]

What's your favorite type of videos to do on your channel? :)

[@WriteHollyDavis]

Mandi Lynn The videos where I can just talk, give advice, and be real are my favorite, so there will definitely be more in my Real Talk series! What about you? :)

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Oh! I'd have to say videos on marketing/social media for authors!

[@Tale-Spinner]

Good vidio

[@DebbieChristina]

Amazing tips! Thank you for sharing them!

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Thanks for watching!

[@crystalfontanez3740]

How to do a collab?

[@TheOffGridAuthor]

Thanks for this video. I'm probably going about things all wrong. Definitely, if you look at my subscriber count. Anyway, on my channel. I'm trying to let potential readers get to know me as a person, so I do videos not just on writing related topics, but on other things I'm interested in. To tell the truth, I'd like to do advice videos, but I don't consider myself an expert by any means. I just know what works for me.

[@MandiLynnWrites]

Sometimes all you need to know is what works for you. You'll notice that everyone goes about things differently in terms of writing and self-publishing, so it's always helpful to share your opinion with others. Best of luck with your KZbin channel!