Lela Davidson, SEO For Authors, Workshop Presenter

Welcome to Lela Davidson, whom I was lucky enough to meet at the 2012 Missouri Writers Guild Conference and buy her first book, Blacklisted from the PTA. This year, Lela is back and as a speaker--you will not want to miss her session. She's going to talk about the elusive "SEO" for authors and plus, she's just downright funny. She's also going to have a new book out, Who Peed on My Yoga Mat? She writes about parenting from a "real" perspective, and she's one you won't want to miss! Let's see what Lela had to say when I asked her about her career, her book, and her workshop. Then stay tuned for the link to her website where you'll be able to find more information.  

Margo: Before you tell us about SEO for Authors, tell us a bit about your background as a writer.

Lela: I became very interested in writing in 2003 and got my first paid gig four years later. I started out with online content and freelance copywriting. In 2008, I had my first essay published in the local parenting magazine; and from there, I was off. I had found what I really enjoyed writing most.  

Margo: I think that's what it's all about--finding what you enjoy writing! And about your books?

Lela: My two books are both essay collections. Blacklisted from the PTA was published in July 2011. I didn't really know what to expect, but the book's success encouraged me to get to work on the second collection, Who Peed on My Yoga Mat? which launches on December 4th!  

Margo: Love, love that title, and I can't wait to read it myself. Okay, so what can authors expect from your SEO for Authors talk?

Lela: SEO is a big, scary subject or at least that's how it has felt to me in the past. I want to break down search technology for authors, so that they not only understand how it works, but leave the talk with practical strategies they can apply over time to improve their ranking by search engines. I want writers to know that SEO does not have to be complicated, and it does not have to take over their lives in order to be effective.  

Margo: Sounds great! Sign me up--I need it. Who would be a perfect audience member for your talk?

Lela: Anyone who has a website or anything to sell online will benefit from the talk.  

Margo: That's me! How do you use SEO yourself as an author?

Lela: I pay attention to my analytics and consistently create content with keywords in mind. And if you have no idea what that means, you can find out in my talk ;)

Margo: Sounds perfect! Last year was your first year coming to the MWG conference as an attendee and participating in the book signing. (right?) So, what made you want to come back and be a speaker this year?

Lela: Right, I participated in the signing and enjoyed meeting your friendly group. It was a fun, well-organized, and information packed conference-- who wouldn't want to be a part of that?  

Margo: EXACTLY! (Do you hear that all you writers "thinking about going?") Lela--Give us a couple of your highlights from last year. :)

Lela: I really enjoyed the pre-conference talk and the lunch keynote by Claire Cook. She is a huge inspiration, and I started some new habits based on her advice. I also loved getting to see my longtime writing coach, Christina Katz, in person. And meeting you, Margo! It's been a pleasure getting to know you over the interwebz.  

Margo: Oh, gee, thanks. I'm so glad I met you, too. You are a marketing and brand guru! :) Plus, just a fun all-around, supportive writer!

Okay, writers, to find out more about Lela and her books, you must visit her very informative website at http://leladavidson.com/.