Boundaries of Networking with Friends, Family, and Colleagues
Hello All! I am new to the self publishing industry, but dedicated to mastering it. I would appreciate some advice, opinions, and experiences on the boundaries of advertising/marketing to family and friends. I'm not big on social media and I am mostly publishing as a hobby. My goal is a cookbook based my special dietary restrictions.
Will any of the following activities get me suspended:
- I have a large network of family and friends who would love to support me. I also have a Facebook account, but would only post that i published to my network and small, private groups and no major public groups. I wouldn't pay anyone to purchase and review my book. But, I know many people would do it to support me. 2.Telling people at my day job. They would also love to support, but are dispersed all over the world and i am not connected to any of them via social media or linked in.
- Old fashioned boots on the ground advertising! Say it's a Hawaiian cookbook, and there's a Hawaiian food festival happening in my own city. Can I pass out cards or flyers or put something under the windshield wiper of all the cars parked there? Yes, I am aware its old school and ancient history methods. But, some people still appreciate that. Especially if it hits a target market.
- A friend has offered to throw me a backyard book launch party and invite all of her friends. They will likely want to purchase it while attending. I will probably use my authors copies to sell. But, I would feel wierd telling them to not leave me a review if they kindly want to do so.
- I am a member of a series of clubs and groups who meet in person to support each other's dietary circumstances. They will all likely want to support my project.
Bottom Line: Will any of these activities get me kicked off the platform? I'm not paying anyone to purchase or leave a review. It would be hard for me to not share my passion project with my large circle of supportive people. I'm not trying to game the system, just navigate it successfully.
Any kind advice is welcome!
Posted Jul 13, 2025, 5:14 AM UTC
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