9 Reasons Every Author Should Build an Author Platform (And How to Make It Happen)

One thing is for sure and that is for authors to be successful with their book, simply writing a good book isn't enough. The modern author needs more than just a compelling narrative to succeed; they need an author platform. But what is an author platform, and why is it so crucial? Let's dive in.

What is an Author Platform?

An author platform is the sum of all the tools and mediums an author uses to connect with their audience and promote their work. It encompasses everything from social media profiles and websites to email lists and personal branding. In essence, it's the author's public persona and their ability to sell books based on their reach and influence.

Why Every Author Needs an Author Platform:

1. Visibility and Reach: An author platform ensures that more than just your family and close friends know about your work. It amplifies your voice, ensuring your books reach a wider audience.
2. Credibility and Trust: A well-maintained platform establishes you as a professional, making readers more likely to trust and invest in your books.
3. Direct Connection with Readers: Through platforms like email lists and social media, authors can engage directly with their readers, fostering a loyal fan base.
4. Consistent Sales: A robust platform ensures that you don't just get a sales spike upon release, but consistent sales over time.
5. Independence: With a strong platform, authors aren't solely reliant on publishers for promotion. They can take charge of their own marketing and sales.
6. Feedback Loop: Direct communication with readers means instant feedback, which can be invaluable for authors.
7. Flexibility: An author platform is adaptable. Whether you're self-publishing or going through traditional channels, a platform is always beneficial.
8. Opportunities Beyond Books: A strong platform can lead to speaking engagements, workshops, and other opportunities.
9. Leverage in Publishing Deals: Traditional publishers are more likely to invest in authors with established platforms.

How to Build Your Author Platform:

1. Identify and Define Your Brand: Understand what makes you unique. Are you a thriller writer with a penchant for historical settings? Or a non-fiction writer specializing in self-help for parents? Define your niche and stick to it.
2. Create a Professional Website: Your website is your online home. It should be user-friendly, mobile-optimized, and reflective of your brand.
3. Engage on Social Media: Choose platforms where your target readers spend their time. Engage genuinely, share valuable content, and foster community.
4. Start Blogging: Share insights, short stories, or articles related to your genre. This not only showcases your writing style but also drives traffic to your website.
5. Build an Email List: This is a direct line to your readers. Offer incentives (like a free short story) for signing up and provide them with consistent value.
6. Network Offline: Attend writer's conferences, join author groups, and engage in speaking opportunities. The real world can offer just as many opportunities as the online one.
7. Write Guest Posts: This can introduce you to new audiences and establish authority in your field.
8. Engage in Community Activities: Whether it's online forums, local book clubs, or writing workshops, immerse yourself in communities relevant to your genre.
9. Consistency is Key: Building a platform isn't an overnight task. It requires consistent effort and engagement. Stay committed, and over time, your platform will grow.

Building an author platform is no longer optional; it's a necessity. In a saturated market, it's your platform that will set you apart, ensuring your voice is heard and your books are read. The good news is you have already found eBookFairs and we have a sure fire way to build or add to your author platform with our online book fairs. The average author will receive at least 100 email addresses with every fair that they submit their book to. That’s a great way to start quickly building your audience and reach. If you aren’t using our book fairs right now, hopefully this article will help you understand why you should join our community.