In recent months, I have been thinking a lot about the need for a platform as an author. There is a fine line between how many platforms you need versus having one that doesn’t work with your writing.
Yet, today, as I write this post, one of the writers I have looked up to for years came out with an article stating that platforms aren’t necessary. As I read his article, I agreed and disagreed all at once.
On the one hand, the platform is about ego. On the other hand, the platform is part of helping you put your books into the hands of people that it could help. So yes, if you want to build a platform for fame, I get it. But, if you want to do it to help, I get that too.
The author, Jeff Goins, puts it like this:
“Personally, what I want is to let go of what I’ve made so that I can be what I know I already am. I want to tear down the structures and strictures of human approval and see what my art is really made of, to be fully and unequivocally me.”
While I understand it completely, many people need a platform to help them move their books and get them seen by people they could help.
An Introduction to Author Platform Building
Building an author platform is a crucial component of becoming a successful author.
In today’s digital age, an author’s platform is their digital presence that can showcase their work, engage with readers, and establish credibility in their field.
In this essay, I will discuss the importance of building an author platform, the key components of a successful author platform, and the steps an author can take to build their platform.
Why do you need an author platform?
Firstly, it is important to understand why building an author platform is so important. An author platform allows writers to reach a wider audience and establish themselves as a trusted authority.
With the rise of digital publishing, traditional publishing houses are no longer the only way for authors to share their work.
Self-publishing has become increasingly popular, allowing authors to reach readers directly through online platforms such as Amazon Kindle, Barnes & Noble Nook, and Apple iBooks.
An author platform helps build an author’s credibility, making it more likely that readers will trust and invest in their work.
Where should you start with your platform?
Secondly, there are several key components that an author should consider when building their platform.
One of the most important components is a website. A website is the hub of an author’s online presence and provides a centralized location for readers to learn more about the author and their work.
A website should include an author bio, a list of published works, and links to purchase their books.
It should also include a blog or news section where the author can share updates about their writing, upcoming events, and other relevant information.
What about social media?
Another important component of an author platform is social media. Social media allows authors to connect with readers more personally and share information about their work in real-time.
The key to success with social media is choosing the most relevant platforms to an author’s target audience.
For example, if an author writes primarily for young adults, they may want to focus on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, whereas if an author writes for an older demographic, they may want to focus on Facebook and LinkedIn.
Don’t forget email!
Email marketing is another crucial component of an author platform. Email marketing allows authors to communicate directly with readers who have expressed an interest in their work.
It can promote new releases, offer exclusive content, and keep readers up to date with the author’s writing progress.
Building an email list takes time and effort, but it can be one of the most effective ways to build a loyal fan base.
One last thing about your platform…
Finally, an author’s platform should also include outreach and networking efforts.
This can include attending book fairs and conferences, participating in writing groups, and collaborating with other authors.
These efforts help to build relationships with readers and other professionals in the industry and can lead to new opportunities for the author.
What do you think? Share in the comments below!
Learn more about Self-Publishing with J.R. Heimbigner on Substack!
J.R. Heimbigner is a #1 Bestselling Author on Amazon who loves helping people grow in their faith and helping writers become authors. You can connect with him on Medium, his website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Substack!
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Are there other books to read? Sure, are. I have two short lists of them in my Writer’s Starter Pack on Gumroad (It’s free, you should check it out). The only other book I want to highlight is my own.
It’s called Transform Your Medium Stories.
Initially written for writers on the Medium platform, the content of this book works for any online content. And it is a great short guide to help you write and publish your first book. So grab your copy today!
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