One of the most challenging aspects of self-publishing is growing your author platforms in a way that attracts your ideal audience.
This sometimes daunting task is probably the first you should tackle if you’ve decided to venture down the indie road even before the book is written.
Many indie authors who are just starting think they must have a book published or on the verge of release to attract followers. This belief is not only untrue, but it can also put a dent in your success as a self-published author.
Connect with Your Ideal Audience Before Releasing Your Book
Growing and connecting with your audience online is an aspect of being an indie author that I don’t touch on as much in my blog, even though it’s just as crucial as strategy and mental health.
I’m not a social media marketing and/or marketing expert of any sort, and nothing in this blog post is meant to act as professional advice in those fields.
What I wish to divulge here is the why.
There are three non-writing pillars that can be the difference between success and failure for a self-published author, all of which can be established by building online relationships through your author platforms.
There are three non-writing pillars that can be the difference between success and failure for a self-publishing author, all of which can be achieved by building online relationships through your author platforms.
The three online pillars of success for indie authors
Peers
Forming a genuine connection with other indie authors in your genre is, in my opinion, the most important pillar. Community is what gets you through the rough patches, it’s where you find the most reliable information, and these are the people that have your back when you’re still just little old you, before you make it big. On a more practical level, connecting with your peers offers you the best kind of exposure to new readers through newsletter swaps, release parties, collaborations, and a variety of other cross-support methods.
Reviewers
Reviewers is a bit of a generalized term since these exceptional individuals I’m referring to do so much more than just review.
I’m talking about the bookstagrammers, Booktokers, and book bloggers of the indie world, the people who are the ultimate bridge between writers and readers.
The sooner you connect and grow your relationship with them, the better.
They will be the first in line for shout-outs, blitzes, ARCs, and street team sign-ups. Some have ten-of-thousands of followers looking to them for recommendations.
Bonus? They are probably the nicest people you will ever meet (I mean, you can’t go wrong with book lovers, right?) as long as you respect them and their boundaries.
Readers
This one goes without saying, but I’m still going to spell it out—your online platforms are where most of your readers will find you.
Starting early and attracting your ideal readers, hooking them on your book even before it’s out, letting them into your writing cave, and connecting with them authentically translates into a loyal audience that will become super fans.
Conclusion? Set yourself up for success by starting as early as possible.
