Beyond Social Media: How to Take Control of Your Author Platform

Social media has become a huge tool for promoting yourself and your books. Whether it’s on Instagram, Tik Tok, Facebook or even some of the up and coming platforms, there are readers out there looking for their next favorite book. 

But what happens when the algorithm that’s been getting you in front of those readers changes? What about when a social network goes away completely? While utilizing these third party sites can help you reach a large number of people, the truth is you have very little control over what you can do there.

So what options do you have to gain some control over how you communicate with your readers? Create something that you have ownership over.

CREATE A WEBSITE

The first thing we would recommend is to have your own website. It doesn’t need to be large or complicated but it should be a centralized location for people to find information on you and your books. 

You have complete control over the content you put out on your site, what it looks like and how often you want, or need, to update it.

Types of content you could include:

• Author bio
• Info about your book(s) and where to purchase
• Links to social media
• Newsletter signup form
• Any events or signings

HAVE A NEWSLETTER

We understand that the idea of a newsletter can feel overwhelming to some and sounds like a lot to manage, but it doesn’t have to be. 

Even if you don’t send out regular newsletters right away (or ever) it is invaluable to have an email list. These are people who are raising their hands and letting you know they want to stay connected; they want to hear from you. 

It’s also a list that can’t be taken away from you. If a social media platform goes away, you lose access to all of those followers. When the algorithm changes, those followers may not see your posts. With your own list, you can reach out to those contacts whenever you want.

Things you could include in your newsletters:

• Information on upcoming releases - trope reveal, cover reveal, out of context quotes, release dates
• Promote your backlist
• Updates on your writing, or just your life - It’s completely up to you what you decided to share with your readers
• Upcoming events and photos after it’s over
• ARC sign-up links
• Giveaways
• Reader reviews

PUT THEM TO USE

Now that you have these tools ready to go, put them to good use! 

Replace that old Linktree in your social bios with your website. Tip: you can even create a page on your site that acts as a Linktree and keeps it simple for readers to find the information they want. 

Use newsletter signups for giveaways at events. Doesn’t have to be anything crazy - bonus chapters, exclusive content, sticker pack, a book, whatever you want! 

Do newsletter swaps with other authors. This can help you promote your work with their audience and vice versa. Remember, other authors are coworkers not competition. Readers want to find more books and you helping them find new-to-them authors and books can create trust. 

There are lots of options out there for you to use. Find something that you’re comfortable with a don’t be afraid to dive in!