[bctt tweet=”I want to serve as a bridge between readers & writers- Mariam Sule, founder of @TheBookDealerNG” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”]
Mariam Sule is a writer and educator. Her fiction and nonfiction have appeared in the Ake Review, Brittle Paper, Ebedi Review, ITCH Creative Journal and Litro Magazine UK.
She was a writer-in-resident at the Ebedi International Writers Residency. TheBookDealerNG is her tech startup that provides a platform where book lovers can access titles published by writers of color. Mariam currently lives in Ilorin, Nigeria.
What inspired your decision to start selling books?
I have always really loved books. I love being around them. The scent of a book makes me happy.
Also, I discovered that many other readers found it difficult to find books particularly African Literature and other books by people of color. I recognized a wonderful opportunity and I was happy to invest in it.
What are the three key things you consider while trying to promote your brand online?
Readers, publishers, and writers. I think carefully about what the readers see when they go through my pages. I make sure what I am offering is appealing.
Also, I want to make sure that writers and publishers see me as a great outlet to distribute their content and that I can serve as a bridge between writers and readers. I achieve this by starting conversations on my pages.
How has social media been able to help increase your productivity?
Social media exposes me to a wide range of readers. Because of social media, I can keep people engaged by talking about books and writing and also collecting orders.
[bctt tweet=”I haven’t encountered fraud on social media – Mariam Sule ” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”]
What was the major social media campaign/experience/incidence that put you into the limelight?
The very first giveaway I hosted was in December 2016 and it was a Christmas-themed giveaway. A classic buy-one-get-one-free promotion.
Free books were given out to people and TheBookDealerNG received a lot of positive publicity including a blog feature.
How have you been able to cope with social media fraud?
So far I haven’t encountered fraud on social media. I am careful when I interact with people and I ensure that my transactions are transparent.
Apart from social media, are there any online methods you use for promotions?
Not at the moment. TheBookDealerNG’s site is still under construction.
What’s your perfect one-line statement for young women trying to build a brand via social media?
Go girl, I’m rooting for you!
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