Building an author platform is a bit like setting up a cozy little bookstore right in the heart of town. It’s your special place where readers can browse, learn, connect, and get to know you. This platform isn’t just about a website or social media page; it’s your hub for sharing your voice, ideas, and the works you’re passionate about. Done right, it’s where you gather your tribe, those loyal readers who support and connect with you.
Here, we’ll break down everything you need to know and show you how to build an author platform that’s authentic to you, meaningful to readers, and sustainable in the long term. Ready to get started?
Table of Contents
1. What an Author Platform Consists Of.
2. What Content to Prioritise.
3. Keeping People Coming Back.
4. Managing Website Visitors and Email Lists.
5. Direct Selling vs. Third-Party Selling.
6. Scaling Your Platform.
1. What an Author Platform Consists Of
Creating a space for your readers starts with knowing what parts make it whole. Let’s start with the main elements your author platform needs.
A good author platform has several core components, each serving its unique purpose. Imagine it as building a house: each room has a different function, but they’re all connected under one roof. Here’s what each “room” of your platform looks like:
– Your Website: Your website is the backbone of your platform. It’s a space you fully control—no algorithms, no rules but your own. This is where you establish your brand, share the story of who you are, and host critical components like a blog or shop. It’s essential to make sure your site reflects your personality and genre—if you write horror, let’s see some dark, spooky vibes. If you write cozy romances, maybe it’s pastel and warm. Make sure it feels like you.
– Social Media Presence: Social media is like the social club attached to your main house. It’s where you casually chat with readers, build relationships, and give updates in real time. The trick here is not to spread yourself too thin—pick a platform or two that fits your audience and style best. Remember, you don’t have to be on every platform. If your readers hang out on Instagram, go all in there.
– Email List: An email list is the goldmine of any author platform. Think of it as your loyal VIP group. Social media algorithms are fickle, but your email list is a direct line to readers. Here, you can share news, updates, and special content just for them. Your subscribers are likely your most loyal fans, so nurture them well with valuable and personalised content.
– Brand Identity: Here’s where you show off your unique vibe, personality, and voice. Whether it’s a quirky sense of humour, a love for gritty sci-fi, or a whimsical fairy tale vibe, your brand should be consistent and recognisable across your platform. Readers should feel they’re entering your world every time they interact with any part of your platform.
2. What Content You Should Prioritise
So, you’ve got your platform pieces in place. Now, what do you actually put on it? Here’s how to make your content resonate and keep readers hooked.
Content can make or break an author platform, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the possibilities. But fear not—here’s a guide on what content will give you the best bang for your time and effort:
– 1. Blog Posts: Your blog is where you can really get personal with readers. Share stories from your writing journey, insights into your creative process, or even anecdotes from your life. Blogging gives readers a sense of who you are beyond your books and makes them feel like they’re part of your world. Aim to publish regularly, whether it’s weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly—just be consistent.
– 2. Book Updates and Excerpts: As an author, your books are your biggest draw. Sharing updates or sneak peeks creates excitement around your upcoming releases and gives readers something to look forward to. You could even do a “countdown to launch” series, with teasers, character spotlights, or exclusive first looks. Keep it fun and interactive!
– 3. Exclusive Email Content: Give your email subscribers a little something extra—exclusive content they won’t find anywhere else. It could be a free short story, a behind-the-scenes look at your next project, or even an invitation to a private Q&A. Make them feel like they’re getting the VIP treatment. And don’t forget to personalise your emails—it goes a long way.
– 4. Social Media Snippets: Social media is all about those bite-sized moments. Share quotes from your books, updates from your writing desk, or snapshots of your life as a writer. Keep it authentic—people love seeing the “real” you.
Prioritise content that gives readers a glimpse into your world while also keeping them excited for what’s next. It’s about sharing a bit of yourself, not just promoting your work.
3. How to Keep People Coming Back
Once readers discover you, the goal is to make them want to return again and again. This is where engagement really counts.
Creating a platform is only half the journey. To keep readers coming back, you need to make it engaging and worth revisiting. Here’s how to do just that:
– Be Consistent: This is huge. Whether it’s blog posts, social media updates, or newsletters, a steady flow of content builds familiarity and trust. Readers know when they can expect to hear from you, and it makes your platform feel alive and active. Think of it as building a routine readers can rely on.
– Engage with Your Audience: Interaction is key. Respond to comments, answer questions, and thank people for sharing your work. The more you engage, the more connected readers feel. People love to feel heard, and when you actively engage, they feel like part of the journey.
– Offer Value: Every post, email, or article should give readers something valuable—be it entertainment, insight, or inspiration. Think about what your audience is looking for and deliver it in ways that are unique to you. Offering value keeps readers interested and invested in following you.
– Create Exclusive Content for Loyal Fans: Consider creating exclusive “members-only” content for loyal followers. This could be anything from a secret short story, a writing tip, or early access to book chapters. Exclusive perks make readers feel appreciated and keeps them invested in your journey.
4. Managing Website Visitors and Email Lists
As you start attracting readers, managing them can feel like herding cats. Here’s how to keep things organised and professional.
It’s great to have lots of readers checking out your work, but managing them effectively helps you build relationships that last. Here’s how to stay on top of it:
– Analytics Are Your Friend: Tools like Google Analytics let you track what’s happening on your site. You can see which pages are popular, where visitors are coming from, and what they’re clicking on. This gives you insights into what’s working and what needs tweaking.
– Segment Your Email List: Not all subscribers are the same. Some might be interested in your books, while others are here for writing tips. Segmenting your list lets you tailor content to specific reader groups, making them feel like you’re talking directly to them. Tailored content is always more engaging.
– Automate When You Can: Save time by using email automation for welcome messages, event reminders, or even a monthly newsletter. Automating basic tasks frees up your time for more creative work.
– Protect Privacy: Always be transparent about data privacy. Make sure readers know their info is safe with you. A good privacy policy builds trust and makes your readers feel secure.
5. Direct Selling vs. Third-Party Selling
Once you’ve built your platform, how do you actually sell your books? Let’s break down the pros and cons of selling directly versus using third-party sites.
When it comes to selling your books or other merch, you have a few choices. Each option has its strengths, so let’s compare:
– Direct Selling (Through Your Website)
– Pros: Selling directly means you keep 100% of the profits, control your prices, and can even offer special extras like signed copies or personalised notes. You can create a unique experience for readers, which can boost loyalty.
– Cons: It takes a bit more work to set up. You’ll need a reliable payment system, and you’ll be in charge of handling customer service. But for some, the rewards are worth it.
– Third-Party Selling (Amazon, etc.)
– Pros: With third-party sites like Amazon, you get access to a huge audience right off the bat. They handle logistics like shipping, returns, and payment, making things easier for you.
– Cons: Amazon and others take a cut, which means less profit for you. Plus, you’re subject to their rules and algorithms, which can make things unpredictable.
My Recommendation: Do a bit of both! Use third-party platforms for reach and visibility but offer direct sales on your website for loyal fans who want a more personal experience.
6. How to Scale Your Platform
When you’re ready to take things to the next level, scaling your platform is how you reach even more readers.
Scaling doesn’t happen overnight, but it’s how you keep your platform fresh and growing. Here are some steps to consider:
– Expand Your Content: Try adding video content, a podcast, or interactive posts. Each format gives readers new ways to engage, and expanding content lets you tap into different preferences.
– Invest in Ads: Ready to reach a bigger audience? Consider targeted ads on social media or search engines. Ads are an investment, so do your homework and make sure you’re reaching people who are likely to connect with your work.
– Collaborate: Partnering with other authors or influencers in your genre can help you reach new audiences. Guest posts, joint events, or even a shared giveaway can boost your visibility and build connections with other writers.
– Publish Consistently: Consistency is key, even as you scale. Regular posts or updates keep your platform active and engaging for new and returning readers alike.
Scaling is about taking what you’ve built and expanding it in a way that’s still true to you. Remember, you’re growing your community, not just your follower count.
How to build an Author Platform – The Right Way
Creating an author platform takes time, love, and a bit of strategy. You’re not just promoting your work—you’re building a space where readers feel like they’re on this journey with you. By focusing on your strengths, being consistent, and putting your readers first, you’re creating a community that values you as much as your work.
And remember, it’s all a process. You’re not in this alone, and there’s no single “right” way to build a platform. Just keep showing up, sharing your passion, and inviting readers into your world. They’ll be glad you did.
Want to learn more? Check out my other article: The Realities of Promoting Your Book On Social Media
