How I built my author platform from scratch—before selling a book

Ah, the dreaded (for some) online-presence building of authordom. Gone are the days when writers could simply sit in their caves and write. Now, we're expected to market, be the face of our books and projects, and become a social media influencer—while somehow writing a book.

It's been 11 months of my journey to become a published novelist, and I've learned a few things along the way. I'm going to break down for you my timeline, what worked, and what I'm still sorting out after months of experimenting, living, and learning what it means to be an author in today's landscape.

I wrote the book first

Partly terrified to put my work out into the world, partly hellbent on finishing a draft of my novel, I waited until I was done drafting my first novel to start an online presence. I took my time thinking about what my genre was, what I wanted my brand to be, my pen name, etc.

I didn't want to fumble around online in front of an audience, figuring out who I was. However, fun fact: I actually started an author Instagram and newsletter, invited all my friends and family to follow along, and then changed course to a whole new pen name/author brand a few weeks later. *Face palm*

Case in point: Wait until you're ready to "launch," but don't be afraid to start and fully expect to make a few fumbles along the way.

I set up the basics

I knew from my time in marketing and communications that I needed some basics set up:

1. Secure pen name

2. A website

3. Social media platforms under my pen name

4. A newsletter - Subscribe here!

This took a few solid days, but after I got it done, I was able to take a deep breath. Quick dive on each:

• Pen name: Research if it's taken or not, check out social media handles to confirm if they are available, make sure it "matches" your genre

• Website: I used Wix to set up my website. It's come a long way and took hours to get it looking the way I wanted.

• I decided to set up an Instagram because it's the platform I was the most comfortable on, and TikTok, because I know that's where a lot of readers hang out.

• Newsletter: I use Mailchimp, which I also use for my job. I have some familiarity with using the platform, but setting up a newsletter is admittedly the hardest part. It's also the most valuable thing to have (a direct communication line with your readers). I will be prioritizing getting more subscribers in the coming weeks and months.

Case in point: Start setting up the basics and everything else will follow.

I began observing, following, engaging

In my first few weeks on social, I had like 9 followers. I was ashamed, but I knew it would take time to build a brand. I started my Instagram in February, and today, I have nearly 850 followers! Here's what I did to build my following:

1. Comment, engage, and follow other authors

2. Seek out bookish accounts/follow/like

3. Participate in follow-for-follow events

4. Produce content regularly

5. Post a mix of content (book promo, behind the scenes, author doubts, querying updates, editing updates)

6. NEW: Research viral hooks and adapt for author life

I am starting to get more traction out of number 6, which is awesome! I am slowly starting to post more book content now that my book is in the querying stages and I'm a place with the manuscript where I feel comfortable sharing more. I look forward to finding more readers!

Case in point: To get traction, you'll have to spend a decent amount of time on socials...sorry! The good news is, it's fun and slightly addicting!

Experiment with freebies, giveaways

To get folks to sign up for my newsletter, I give away a freebie called The Side Dish, a PDF with a deleted scene, character vignettes, and recipes that match my debut, A Matter of Taste!

In the coming months, I want to prioritize strengthening my mailing list. I'll be launching a giveaway soon over social media to incentivize folks to join my newsletter. Stay tuned for details!

Case in point: A giveaway doesn't HAVE to cost money. My exclusive PDF just took time to write and design, and people love it!

What moves the needle

To be honest, more than marketing acumen, connections, good luck, or anything, it's about showing up consistently. Engaging with other authors. Championing others' work. Rooting for their successes. One day, when I hopefully find success, they will be my biggest supporters as well.

Coming from a background in marketing and communications is extremely helpful, but it wouldn't benefit me in the slightest if I didn't show up consistently. Kind of like working out a muscle group, you won't see progress if you don't put in the work!

That's all for now. Drop a comment if you have any questions!