What Is an Author Platform?

Your author platform is your presence online and offline — where readers find you, get to know you, and become fans. It’s more than just social media; it’s how you connect, share, and grow your audience over time.

Step 1: Choose Your Main Platform(s)

You don’t have to be everywhere. Pick 1-2 places to focus on where your ideal readers hang out:

• Instagram: Great for visual storytelling, quotes, writing process, and connecting with book lovers
• TikTok (BookTok): Huge for viral book clips, quick tips, and relatable content
• Twitter: Perfect for joining writing communities and sharing updates
• Facebook: Still works for groups and events, especially for older readers
• YouTube: For in-depth videos, writing advice, and book trailers
• Your Own Website/Blog: A home base where you control the content and collect emails

Step 2: Share Valuable & Authentic Content

People follow authors who feel real and offer something useful or entertaining.

Ideas include:

• Behind-the-scenes writing process
• Sneak peeks or exclusive excerpts
• Book recommendations or reviews
• Personal stories related to your writing themes
• Writing tips, prompts, or challenges
• Q&A sessions or live streams

Be consistent. Even 2-3 posts a week build trust and visibility.

Step 3: Build Your Email List

Email is your most valuable tool because you own the list and can reach readers directly without algorithms.

• Offer a freebie (short story, sample chapter, writing checklist) in exchange for emails
• Send monthly newsletters with updates, personal insights, and exclusive offers
• Keep your emails friendly, brief, and valuable

Step 4: Engage & Network

Don’t just post and ghost. Engage with your followers and other authors by:

• Replying to comments and messages
• Joining online writing and reading groups
• Collaborating with other creators (guest blogs, podcasts, giveaways)
• Attending virtual or local book events

Step 5: Keep Growing & Adapting

Building a platform is a marathon, not a sprint.

• Track what content your audience loves
• Try new formats (videos, reels, podcasts)
• Stay true to your voice, but be open to evolving
• Celebrate small wins and be patient