The Power of Social Networking . . . 219 Host a Facebook Event Email is already outdated in terms of sending out e- vites, or electronic invitations to events. Facebook has taken over, because it is so much quicker and more con- venient. You can create an event, post a photo for it, and immediately invite everyone you know. 吀栀en you can keep track of who is coming, who is unsure, and who cannot make it. As an author, you can start by giving a free book talk, or arrange a signing at a local bookstore when your book comes out. Remember, you’re not just an author; think of yourself as a speaker too. When people see you on a stage holding your own book, an image is imprinted in their minds of who you are. So for the rest of their lives, they are going to think of your book whenever they think of you. You want that! Don’t worry if you create an event and only your mother, your best friend, and your neigh- bor show up. Marketing statistics prove that people need to hear from you six times before they respond. So keep holding events, and I guarantee your e昀昀orts will gather speed and numbers. 吀栀e most important thing is to get out there and have fun with it. Your events don’t need to be perfect. Just create an event and market it on Facebook, and get some practice speaking about your subject. You’ll be surprised—you might enjoy it!