DISCLAIMER: I receive compensation from the companies whose products I review. I test each product thoroughly and give high marks to only the very best. I am independently owned and the opinions expressed here are my own.
Do you have a publisher or are you trying to get published? Are you struggling to gain awareness for your work? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you need to grow your online presence and learn about author branding.
Authors need to grow their online presence because followers equal fans, which equal potential sales.
Having worked in the publishing industry, I know that publishers won’t consider your work if you don’t have the following available online:
- Notoriety – You need fans/followers to market to.
- Presence – Your profile needs to be available online.
- Skill – This may seem obvious, but you need to be a GOOD writer.
Why do you need these things?
Whether you have a small publisher or you’re an indie author, YOU will most likely be expected to help promote your own books.
Larger publishing houses may have more wiggle room with your online presence. But, it is hard enough to get a publisher’s attention in the first place, soooo…….
Writers Need Fans to Be Authors
It sounds backwards, but it’s just the way it works. Writers need to prove that they have readers who will buy their work if a publishing house will consider publishing your novel.
A publisher doesn’t want to waste time or money investing in an author who won’t be selling books.
As a previous editor and promoter for indie authors, I’ve learned quite a few things about the publishing industry. I’ve worked for an independent publisher, spoken to various authors, and worked with many indie authors.
Obviously, you need to be a good writer to gain fans. But, good writers still need the fans/followers to prove to agents and publishers that their work will sell. You need to commit to author branding.
What Makes An Online Presence
There are different means to use to establish an online presence, but any that you choose will involve conversing with people online and writing (that’s the easy part for writers).
- Social Media
- Small Publications (literary journals, magazines, etc.)
- Blogging
Social media platforms are free and simple ways to grow fans by simply talking about what you guys have in common: books, your genre, writing, inspirations, etc.
Neil Gaiman is a great example of an author who converses with his fans. He’s a big fan of Twitter and Instagram. However, you should find your own social media platform that you’re comfortable using.
Publishing with literary journals, magazines, or newspapers is a great way to Start gaining fans. Those publications also look good on your submission resume, and worth sharing with potential agents and publishers.
Literary journals, magazines, newspapers, etc. don’t usually care about a writer’s notoriety. They already have their own audience, so they just want your writing to be good enough for their publication.
Blogging is another way to communicate with potential fans. As a writer, you can easily share your musings on writing, maybe some short stories or poems, and definitely keep your readers informed with any updates on your books.
If your goal is to earn more sales for your books, you need fans. You can earn followers with dedication and consistency.
Build a Website Or Blog
I know, I know. You’re probably wondering why everyone and their mother (including my own) has to have their own website. Well, not everyone HAS to have a website, but you do if you’re an author trying to grow your profile and notoriety.
I caught on quickly from there and found that WordPress isn’t that much different from any other publisher. Now I’m a WordPress guru!
WordPress is meant to be a tame animal – little did I know… Self-hosting is a whole different beast to tackle.
Your own website doesn’t have to cost much, and some options are even free (though more limited). But, for SEO purposes, you NEED to own/self-host your own website if you want to get found.
When to Self-Host and Why
Are you in complete control of your website? Do you want your content to be FOUND on search engines?
Then you need to self-host your website.
Self-hosting provides complete freedom. If you’re a writer who wants to sell your books on your website, this is how you can.
I required a lot of help when it came to setting up my website, and that’s what the Help section is for.
WordPress recommends Bluehost, and is the most used host with the highest rating. Based on that, I made my choice.
It’s a highly satisfying feeling when you have ownership of your own material and own a live site that the world can see.
Be sure to check back often as I will continue updating this post with more helpful tips.
Ask Amelia!
If you have any questions or need help expanding your online profile, let me know! I’m here to help you out.
Be sure to subscribe to access future author branding tips. You’ll also get a welcome gift to improve your online branding through social media.
[…] Both indie and mainstream authors need a website of their own to promote their books and establish an online presence. […]
[…] Build a Professional Online Profile […]
[…] sure to subscribe below for more writing and author tips, like Author Branding – How to Grow Your Online Presence or check out my virtual Writers Workshop for feedback from other […]
[…] The biggest rule of being a writer is that you MUST write. It is the only way we improve and hone in to our style. However, sometimes the hardest thing for a writer is finding the time to write. (see my blog on Building a Writing Profile) […]
[…] See also, How to Grow Your Online Presence […]
[…] If you’re a published author, learn other ways to promote your author brand: How to Grow Your Online Presence […]
[…] (For more tips, read How to Grow Your Online Presence – Building a Writing Profile.) […]
I’m looking forward to your favorite blogging apps.
Glad I found your blog.:-)
I hope to have it read sooner rather than later. I just like to make sure I cover all bases before sharing 🙂
Thank you so much for following and commenting!
Wow! I had no idea, but after reading your post I must thank you, because you’ve given some very wonderful and helpful tips. So now I know what steps to take to get started. I had no idea where to begin. Thanks!
You are very welcome! I will be updating this post as regularly as possible with new information. Hopefully, others find it useful. Thank you for stopping by and commenting!