8 Tips for Building a Killer Platform

Let’s talk about the P-word.

I’ve got to be honest with you – the vast majority of the authors I meet have no interest in joining their platform. They will resist delving into that world with every fiber of their being.

I’m going to be honest again – I get it. I do. I am an introvert, and a writer myself, and nothing makes me happier than helping people from the privacy of my own office, doors closed, camera off, comfort food close at hand.

However, the world we live in is not a private one. The internet has changed everything, as has the colossal growth of self-publishing.

I’m sure at this point you are probably comfortable calling yourself an author.  But are you comfortable calling yourself a salesperson? As mentioned above, this is rarely a favorite part of an author’s journey – but it’s an important one.

Yes, your book is your baby, but in the end it is a product that needs to be bought and sold, just like clothing or cell phones or toothbrushes.  It sounds cold, but it’s the truth.  And the quicker you embrace the idea, the less scary or stressful it is, and the quicker you can start differentiating yourself from other books and authors in the marketplace.

And keep in mind, editors buy authors, not just their books – they want to establish long-term relationships with their authors, but they also want to know they are going to get a return on their investment in your book.  They want to know that you’re bringing a quality product to the table and that you will be a motivated partner in getting it into the hands of your customers, the readers.

But wait, you might say, I write fiction! Platform’s just important for nonfiction authors, right? Wrong. Regardless of what genre you write, you need to be able to illustrate what YOU are bringing to the table. Demonstrate your expertise, and show that you are bringing a built-in audience of potential book buyers who are actively interacting with your content.

What counts as a platform?

• Your social media following – how engaged your audience is

• Your ability to get yourself interviewed on radio, television and in print – before the book is published!

• The size of your personal mailing list the fans with whom you keep in regular touch and who consider you a worthy supplier of information on your topic.

• Your public appearances – paid speaking, workshop, seminars, live events that you do – or should be doing – to raise your profile

• Your expertise – your qualifications to share this material or write this book

Ready to take the leap with me? I’m going to share with you 8 Tips for Building a Killer Platform.

Tip #1: Have an Author Website

It doesn’t have to be fancy, in fact it can just be a placeholder, but you want to make sure you have your name, what project you are currently working on, and a way to have people contact you.

• Make sure to include links to your social media pages, blog, etc. 

Tip #2: Find Your Strength

What do you naturally like to do (and do well)?

• If you say writing, it might be blogs, e-books, or social media posts

• If you’re a skilled public speaker, it might be hosting workshops, seminars, paid or free speaking, classes, or webinars

• If you’re a natural perform, then you’ll be looking at radio/podcasts, TV, videos, vlogging, hosting, etc.

Try things out until something clicks for you – and your audience

Tip #3: Be a Media Darling

You want to show:

• That you are delivering content that can attract journalists – and will therefore attract more when your book comes out

• That you can handle yourself on media – you’d be amazed how many people suddenly become wallflowers or know-it-alls or boorish when they get close to journalists

• It proves that your content is interesting to the world – at least, in theory.

Issue press releases, and find ways to connect yourself and your book to current events

Be relentless

Check out sites like HARO, SourceBottle, PitchRate, which allow you to respond to reporter queries and pitch yourself as a source for articles they are working on 

Tip #4: Don’t Procrastinate!

This is not something that is done AFTER the book is published – while it is being written and edited, while it is being published, AFTER it is being published, on and on

 Tip #5: Understand Your Genre and/or Market

• Research, research, research

• Ask yourself what is working for other authors/experts in your field – you’re going to do a lot of copying before you are going to be completely innovative

Tip #5: Understand Your Audience

• What do they want?

• How do they want to receive it?

• Use tools like Google Keyword Analyzer

 Tip #6: Free is Good

• Write blogs, share excerpts from your book, share content and resources that your audience enjoys/and or can benefit from

• You may worry that giving things away for free is bad, but really, readers are thinking, If they’re giving this away for free, I can only imagine what I’ll get from their book!

• Freebies can also include webinars, workshops, speaking engagements, newsletters, and e-books 

Tip #7: Think Outside of the Box

• What can you be doing differently?

• How would YOU like to be reached out to (as a reader)?

Tip #8: Never Stop

Always remember this acronym: ABP – Always Be Platforming

To you and your book!

Megan

Marketing Yourself and Your Book Projects Isn’t as Scary as You Think

As an author, the thought of marketing yourself and your book can feel overwhelming and intimidating. Many writers, especially those just starting out, believe that marketing is something reserved for business-savvy individuals or social media influencers, not for them. But here’s the truth: marketing doesn’t have to be a scary monster lurking in the shadows. In fact, it’s an opportunity to share your work with the world and connect with readers who are waiting for your story.

Marketing as an author is far more approachable than it seems. Here are some simple, manageable steps to successfully market your book and yourself as an author:

1. Shift Your Mindset: Marketing Is Not Self-Promotion

One of the biggest fears authors face when it comes to marketing is the idea of "selling out" or being seen as self-promotional. We often associate marketing with pushy salespeople, infomercials, or those dreaded “buy my book” posts that flood social media. But here’s the key: Marketing is not about selling yourself; it’s about sharing what you’ve created with people who will appreciate it.

As an author, you’re offering something valuable – whether it’s an escape in the form of fiction, helpful information in a nonfiction book, or a unique perspective. Marketing helps you find the right audience for your work. Think of marketing as an invitation to potential readers to get to know you and the world you’ve created, not as a hard-sell.

2. Start Small and Build Gradually

You don’t need to become an expert marketer overnight. In fact, it’s perfectly fine to start small and scale up over time. Begin with one or two simple strategies and gradually build upon them as you grow more comfortable. Here are a few starting points that won’t overwhelm you:

• Create an Author Website: Having an online presence is essential in today’s digital age. Your website is your “home base” where potential readers can learn more about you, your books, and your writing journey. You don’t need to be a web designer to get started – platforms like WordPress, Squarespace, or Wix offer easy-to-use templates that you can customize with your own content.

• Start a Blog: Blogging is a great way to establish your authority and engage with your audience. It doesn’t need to be long or frequent – just share insights about your writing process, behind-the-scenes details about your book, or thoughts on topics related to your book’s themes. By offering valuable content, you’ll build trust with readers and create a community around your work. 

• Social Media: Pick one or two social media platforms that align with your audience and start engaging. You don’t need to be everywhere, but consistency is key. Whether it’s Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn, share updates about your writing journey, snippets from your book, or general thoughts related to your genre. Social media isn’t about constant self-promotion – it's about connecting with others and building relationships.

3. Engage with Your Audience, Don’t Just Talk At Them

One of the best things about modern marketing is the ability to connect with readers on a personal level. Instead of seeing marketing as a one-way street where you constantly talk at your audience, think of it as a conversation. Engaging with your readers fosters loyalty and creates a community around your work. 

• Respond to Comments and Messages: Whenever readers comment on your posts or reach out to you, take the time to engage. Whether it’s a simple thank you or answering a question, making that connection builds goodwill.

• Ask Questions: Let your readers be part of the journey. Ask questions like: “What’s your favorite character trope?” or “What’s one topic you’d like me to write about next?” Encouraging interaction invites people to feel involved and valued.

• Share Personal Stories: Readers love to connect with authors on a personal level. Share stories about your writing process, the struggles you’ve faced, and the victories you’ve celebrated. The more authentic and relatable you are, the more your readers will connect with you and your work.

4. Leverage Free Tools to Help You Grow

You don’t need a massive budget to market yourself and your book. There are countless free tools available that make it easier to get started:

• Mailchimp: Build an email list to keep your readers informed about your latest projects, book launches, and events. An email list is one of the most direct ways to communicate with your audience.

• Canva: Create eye-catching graphics for social media, your website, or promotional materials. With a free account, you can easily design engaging visuals that attract attention without needing graphic design skills.

• Goodreads: Goodreads is an invaluable platform for authors to connect with readers. Creating an author profile, sharing your books, and interacting with readers on the platform helps you build your following. You can also encourage readers to leave reviews of your book, which can have a significant impact on your visibility and sales.

5. Focus on the Long-Term

Marketing is not a “quick fix” that will instantly sell thousands of books. It’s a long-term strategy that requires patience and persistence. Your goal is to build a loyal audience over time, not to make a single sale. Here are a few long-term strategies to keep in mind:

• Consistency Is Key: The more consistently you show up online and share your writing journey, the more your audience will grow. Set a realistic schedule for posting, blogging, and engaging with your audience. Don’t burn out by trying to do it all – just aim for steady progress.

• Build Relationships with Other Authors: Collaborating with other authors can be a great way to expand your reach. Participate in author interviews, share each other’s books, or host joint giveaways. Building a supportive network of authors can be a game-changer when it comes to marketing your books.

• Celebrate Milestones and Successes: Whether it’s the completion of your manuscript, the release of your book, or hitting a certain sales goal, celebrate your accomplishments with your audience. Sharing these milestones allows your readers to be part of the journey and reinforces the idea that your success is also their success.

6. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

Marketing doesn’t have to be a solo venture. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or just don’t have the time to focus on marketing, consider asking for help. Hiring a freelance publicist or marketing expert can provide you with the guidance and expertise you need. Or, partner with other authors or bloggers who can help promote your work.

Marketing doesn’t have to be a scary or overwhelming task. Remember that marketing is just a tool to help you share your passion with the world, and with time, you’ll find your groove. You’ve already written a book – now it’s time to share it with the world. And trust me, the world is ready to hear your voice.