An author platform is an area or space where you showcase yourself as a brand that is highly visible and to your audience. Being an effective author also means having and understanding the overarching theme of visibility (virtual or traditional media) to your intended audience.
With today’s technology, an author platform is found essential to get ahead of the curve. There are several advantages as to why tapping on an author platform will get your foot on the door.
Moving and targeted promotion
The advantage of online platforms is their constant move to gaining likes, views, interactions, or responses. Your online presence alone is a marketing strategy that makes its way to online users even if you’re not active. And without spending a dime, you’ll work your way through your targeted or potential audience just by consistently interacting.
Builds a connection with the audience
Constant interaction develops proximity between you and your potential readers. Dropping snippets or creating some buzz around your book will also spike their curiosity, making them anticipate your next content. The last thing you know, you already have a mob of loyal fan base even before you could publish your work.
Visibility to literary giants and professionals
Social media and traditional media don’t guarantee exposure alone but also to a network of literary giants, organizations, authors, influencers, editors, and other groups in the writing pool you can work with. It also increases the chance to interact with seasoned authors, learn tips, or get pieces of advice from professionals in the same circle as you.
Promotes writing routine
Battling with procrastination and writing block is a common predicament for writers. But since your audience looks forward to your response, interaction, or any new posts from you, you will be driven to respond timely to avoid turning them down. One of the basic rules in managing social media accounts is to always stay reachable and accessible in which can only be achieved if you manage to respond to your audience in real-time.
If you’re still hesitant to start your author platform, go over your goals and the type of audience you want to reach. Perhaps you’re writing young adult fiction and that only entails something: you know exactly where the right ocean to fish at.