Author Platform 101: Building Visibility from Scratch

Let’s be honest: the term “author platform” can feel overwhelming. It sounds like something built out of perfectly curated Instagram grids and viral TikToks and the kind of confidence most of us just … don’t have.

But here’s the truth: your author platform is just how people find you, connect with you, and remember you. It’s the bridge between your writing and the readers who need it. And yes—you can build that bridge from wherever you are, even if you're just starting out.

Here’s how to begin, one doable piece at a time.

1. Understand What a Platform Actually Is

Your platform isn’t just one thing—it’s the collective presence you have across different spaces. That might include:

• A website or blog

• A newsletter list

• Social media accounts

• Podcast interviews, guest posts, or YouTube appearances

• Speaking gigs, workshops, or book clubs

You don’t need all of these. You need the ones that feel right for you and your readers. (If you need an expert to create an incredible author website for you, check out our services page!)

2. Start with Your Home Base: Your Website + Newsletter

Even if you’re not published yet, it’s a smart move to claim your space online. That means:

• A simple, clean website with your name, your bio, and a place to contact you

• A newsletter sign-up form (with a welcome note and freebie, if you’ve got one)

• A way to regularly connect with your readers—once a month is enough to start

Pro tip: A newsletter list is yours. You’re not at the mercy of social media algorithms. It’s one of the strongest, most sustainable ways to grow your platform over time.

3. Pick One Social Media Platform to Focus On

You don’t have to be everywhere. In fact, please don’t try. Choose one platform that fits both your comfort level and your genre’s reader habits:

• Romance or YA? Instagram and TikTok might be strong.

• Thriller or nonfiction? Twitter (X) or Facebook could be better bets.

• Not sure? Start small and experiment.

Post consistently, show up as yourself, and remember: it’s about connection, not performance.

4. Share the Right Content at the Right Time

Not sure what to post? Here’s a cheat sheet of content buckets you can rotate:

• Behind-the-scenes of your writing process

• Quotes from your work-in-progress

• Tips or inspiration for fellow writers or readers

• Book recs

• Occasional personal updates (with boundaries you're comfortable with)

You don’t have to share everything. Just share something real.

5. Don’t Wait Until You’re Published to Start

The biggest mistake we see? Writers waiting until they have a book deal or a launch date to start building their platform.
The best time to start? Now.
The second-best time? Still now.

Readers want to go on the journey with you. Let them in.

6. Focus on Community, Not Just Growth

Platform-building isn’t about shouting into the void—it’s about creating a space where people connect with you and your stories. That might mean:

• Replying to comments and emails

• Supporting other authors

• Hosting giveaways or book chats

• Just showing up consistently with value

Even a small, loyal audience will go further for you than thousands of passive followers.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be loud or flashy or viral to build a great author platform. You just need to be consistent, authentic, and willing to show up. Start with what feels doable. Grow from there.

Remember: your platform isn’t about selling a book. It’s about building a readership. One post, one email, one conversation at a time.

You’ve got this. And we’re cheering you on.