Why Building Your Author Platform Matters More Than You Think

kaz07899
Oct 30, 2025
2 min read

You’ve written a brilliant book. You’ve edited it, proofread it, formatted it… and now you’re ready to hit publish.

But here’s the reality: if no one knows you exist, even the best book in the world can fall flat.

That’s where your author platform comes in...the foundation for your visibility, credibility, and book sales.

It’s not about vanity metrics or chasing followers; it’s about building connection and consistency.

So what can you do to build your author platform? here are my top tips...

Newsletters: your most powerful marketing tool

Social media algorithms come and go, but your email list is yours. It’s direct access to readers who want to hear from you...these are your fans!

Use your newsletter to:

Share behind-the-scenes updates on your writing journey
Offer value (writing tips, prompts, or sneak peeks)
Build relationships, not just readership

Readers who feel personally connected to you are far more likely to buy your next book, recommend you, and leave reviews.

Networking: don’t write in isolation

Writing can be solitary, but publishing definitely shouldn't be. Networking with other authors, podcasters, and book professionals can open doors you didn’t even know existed.

Engage with others online, join writing groups, attend local events, or collaborate through podcasts and guest blogs.

The more visible you are within the writing community, the more your credibility grows.

Talk about your book...ALOT!

Speaking about your book at every opportunity, whether that be paid speaking gigs, podcast interviews, literary and author events, or business events will raise your visibility...it's not rocket science!

Look for collaborators too - people or organisations who have a bigger audience than you and who can help you to share your book; tap into their resources.

People won't know your book is there or how great you are if you don't tell them!

Visibility: show up consistently

Whether it’s posting on LinkedIn, sharing your progress in a writing group, or recording a podcast episode, consistency builds trust.

You don’t need to shout the loudest, but you do need to show up regularly.

Readers remember authors who keep showing up with purpose and authenticity.

So many authors ask me why their book isn't selling, and ultimately it always comes down to marketing...or lack of it. Marketing is a looooong game! It requires dedication, consistency, and a fair amount of pig-headed resilience.

Don't lose heart; keep going, and your efforts will eventually yield results.