The rise of the author platform as an industry obsession is a relatively new phenomenon. While industry folks may argue that platform has always mattered, today it’s more important than ever before.
It doesn't matter if you self-publish or you're traditionally published, you need a platform to connect with your audience.
It's All About Connecting With Your Audience
If you were traditionally published your publicist would be in charge of getting you the coverage you need as an author for your books. Of course this all costs money. However if you've already done all of that and you have a following that's something you can continue to build.
Standing-Out From the Crowd is Essential
It's all about branding in today's publishing market. Having the foundation, writing skill, and personality all go hand-in-hand. People will have an idea about who you are and what you stand for, that's all thanks to an author platform.
You do this by creating the books, blog posts and newsletters that tell your readers who you are.
It's All About Book Sales
At the end of the day when publishers are looking for new clients they want people with a platform ready-made to sell books from.
What Does An Author Platform Do?
It allows you to:
- Build your authority
- Connect with your readers
- Build relationships with other writers and like-minded people in your field
- Find the people that really want to read your books
- Go beyond your books and look at other revenue streams
Your Writing Business Needs a Home
Social media is great for connecting with an audience but it isn't the same as a website. Somewhere your readers can find you and get to know you and your writing. If you're in writing for the long haul then you really need a website.
Things to think about when you start a website:
- Keep your design simple
- You start at the bottom, because website's take a few years to mature
- You'll need a Home page, About page, Contact page, Services page (if you're looking to expand your revenue), Books page and Newsletter page if you want to find new readers.
Is An Author Blog Worth It
In a nutshell, yes.
It teaches you:
- SEO
- Copywriting
- Author branding
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