What's so bad about BSP (blatant self-promotion)

[Julie Lomoe]

Right at the top of the Crimespace main page, it says this site is for "discussion only," not blatant self-promotion. Yet what's so bad about BSP? After all, isn't that one of the main reasons we're here? Yes, we have to be subtle about it, but isn't that a hold-over from good manners that were instilled in most of us as kids? Especially in the case of women like me, who are AARP eligible?

This topic is the focus of my post at my WordPress blog today. I hope you'll stop by and leave a comment. And I'll start this discussion in the Schmooze Lounge here, lest I anger anyone who believes modesty is still the best policy.

Julie Lomoe
Julie Lomoe's Musings Mysterioso

[Eric Christopherson]

I believe BSP is sanctioned in certain parts of the site. But I personally hate encountering it unless I'm looking for some. It's like getting a phone call at home at dinner time from a telephone solicitor trying to sell me on a time share in Guatemala.

[Julie Lomoe]

Just as I was reading this, I got a telephone solicitation - at dinner time! I hung up before learning what it was about.

[Toni L.P. Kelner]

I think there are lines. For instance, I don't mind seeing a post like this:

My new book just came out today! A CLOSE SHAVE is the third in my series, and there is nothing quite so exciting as seeing a new book on the shelf.


Then we're all celebrating good news. What gripes the tar out of me is a post like this:

Please help support a new writer. This is my first book, and I'll know you'll love it! I really want to sell enough copies to get another contract.


Then it's begging, and it's assuming that I'll like the book--by no means a certainty. And of course the author wants another contract. We all do. Why should I buy yours? Have you bought mine?

All a matter of style.

[Julie Lomoe]

I agree totally, Toni. I especially like the last two sentences. There should be some reciprocity. In person, I like to trade books with other authors, and they're usually happy to do so. Online, it's a little trickier, but I keep a list of books I'd like to buy or get from the library.

[Dana King]

I second what Eric and Toni have said. My contribution is to add the frustration that builds when blatancy becomes repetitive. I don't mind seeing notices like those already described, but when an author posts them daily if gets old, as they tend to push blogs and discussions that will actually encourage discussion off the page, and those are why I'm here.

[Julie Lomoe]

Once again, I agree. I try not to get repetitive.

[Deirdre]

There is a time and place for everything. Like the others, a celebratory comment is fine. Otherwise I'm not interested.

Now, if I go looking for a new author I want to check out. Their comments are okay. But we are usually self deluded. We all think our own writing is great. I appreciate the comments of someone else who read the book and if they enjoyed, then I may pick it up and read it.

[Julie Lomoe]

That's why writing groups are good - if it's the right mix of writers. They help keep us from self-delusion. I never tell people my books are great - I just talk about them, and let the potential readers decide.

[B.R.Stateham]

Damn! And I was just about to get on my knees, wring my hands, and cry like a cute gorilla and plead with everyone to read my book! Can't even wallow in self-pity these days without someone getting upset.

[Julie Lomoe]

Now this is the kind of comment that gets me interested in your writing, because of the humor. And it doesn't even include any BSP.

Julie Lomoe
Julie Lomoe's Musings Mysterioso

[I. J. Parker]

I'm absolutely not here for BSP. I wouldn't come here if people posted BSP exclusively.

[Julie Lomoe]

Neither would I - but I don't mind a little BSP now and then, interspersed with the discussion.

Julie Lomoe
Julie Lomoe's Musings Mysterioso