An Author Platform
An Author Platform
Building an author platform is essential to your marketing strategy. It helps to establish credibility, connect with your readership, and promote your work effectively.
An author platform is a bridge between an author and readers, and the broader literary community.
It’s about your presence as an author both in the internet space and away from the internet.
It’s not just about writing and publishing your book. Nor is it about getting lots of publicity and promoting your book to make sales.
Yes, you do sell your books, but you sell books because of who you are and the audience that you can reach.
It’s about your name, your reputation, and the connections that you have.
Building a robust author platform requires strategic planning, consistent effort, and authenticity. Here are six key steps to creating an effective author platform.
1. Identify Your Brand
Your author platform begins with a clear understanding of your brand. Define what makes you unique as a writer. Consider your genre, themes, writing style, and personal story. Craft a compelling author bio that highlights your expertise and resonates with your target audience. Authenticity is key—your brand should reflect your genuine personality and values.
2. Create a Professional Website
A website is the cornerstone of any author platform. It should include an engaging homepage, an author bio, a blog, and a dedicated space for your books.
It needs to be visually appealing, easy to navigate, and mobile-friendly.
Integrate an opt-in form to start building your email list—one of the most valuable tools for maintaining direct communication with your readers.
3. Leverage Social Media
Choose social media platforms that align with your target audience and writing style. Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), Pinterest and TikTok are popular options. Post regularly, share updates about your writing journey, engage with followers, and participate in conversations relevant to your genre.
Use social media to showcase your personality while subtly promoting your work.
4. Build Relationships with Readers and Industry Professionals
Engaging with your readers and networking with fellow writers and bloggers is vital. Respond to comments and messages, join online writing communities, and attend literary events or webinars.
Collaboration and meaningful interactions can significantly expand your reach and credibility.
5. Produce Valuable Content
Offer your audience valuable content beyond your books, such as blog posts, videos, or downloadable resources. This not only builds trust but also establishes your authority in your niche.
6. Establish a Consistent Presence
Consistency in updates, tone, and branding helps you stay top-of-mind. Schedule regular posts, newsletters, or blog updates to maintain visibility and engagement.
Building an author platform is a long-term process. It is not something that happens overnight.
You start small and slowly over time your presence is established. There is no end to it.
You’ve got to work at it and let your presence evolve.
The foundation and starting point for your author platform is your expertise, your personality, and the books you produce.
By following these steps and staying committed, you can create an author platform that effectively showcases your work and fosters lasting connections with your readership.
If you are ready to take the next step to writing and publishing your book reserve your free ticket now for my exclusive online class and kickstart your self-publishing journey.
Register for free right here by clicking the green button below.
Marji Hill
Author and Coach