People are always asking what the “best” marketing tool or tactic is. While marketing tactics can’t be the same for everyone and every purpose, there’s one surefire marketing rule that any writer would benefit from, no matter their style, level, or niche:

Do something to market your writing every single day!

Yes, seven days a week. Even on your days “off,” there’s no excuse not to market your work. It doesn’t mean that you have to spend a lot of time on marketing each day. There are quite a few things you can do in a matter of minutes (at most) that keep your marketing efforts going:

1. Send a brief email to a prospective client.
2. Write a short blog post, or comment on a blog where potential clients hang out (linking back to your website).
3. Make a list of marketing tactics for the next week (or day).
4. Go over your business / portfolio site stats to see what’s working and what’s not.
5. Make a few improvements to your business site’s Web copy if it needs a touch up.
6. Make a few forum posts, making sure to have a link to your business site in your signature.
7. Peruse a few job posting sites to see if any gig openings look appealing. Apply for them while they’re fresh.
8. Pick up a marketing book at your local library.
9. If you meet someone that might have an interest in your work, casually mention what kind of writing you do, and slip the person a business card if you have one.
10. Email or call up a fellow writer to chat. You need to keep in touch with your network if you want to keep word-of-mouth marketing efforts (referrals) strong.