Wednesday, 23 July 2014

TIPS: Six Tips to building an Author Platform:

An 'Author Platform' (a fancy name for a built-in audience) is an essential for the emerging author. Here's six ways to develop one:

1. Blogging. It's easy and free! Sign up with the blog provider of your choice, choose a template and blog away. Link it to twitter and facebook to maximise views, and don't forget to read, like and comment on other blogs to increase your viewership. Example: Neil Gaiman.


2. YouTube. The youtube generation is upon us and you only have to look at the megasuccess of John Green's channel Vlogbrothers to see how it can support your sales and readership. Do your homework though. What will you film about? Will you vlog? Be open and sincere and you can create your own loyal community.


3. Podcasts. This may get a bit techy but can be worth it. Putting out your own podcast of your work or interviews can be a great way to increase your standing in the online market place. Keep it simple and persevere - the most successful podcasters post regularly and have plenty of recordings to their name. Examples: Emma Newman and Cory Doctorow.


4. Public Appearances. It's not all about the internet! Get out to bookshop signings and readings and school visits to show potential audiences what a thoroughly nice person you are.


5. Twitter and Facebook. This is a given. If you're not on these social networks, and many others, then you should be. Get on, get chatting and follow and friend all you can.


6. IRL Networking. Conferences and book launches are great places to meet people and swop business cards. Be friendly and professional, and follow any meeting up with an online 'hello!'.


Image: http://pixelperfectdigital.com/photo/607/colorful-light-pulse-abstract.html Under Creative commons attribution.
Creative Commons Attribution
Creative Commons Attribution

No comments:

Post a Comment