Top Three Tips to Build Your Profile as a Writer

I’ve always resisted the idea that authors — especially aspiring authors — need a huge following, whether that’s on social media or elsewhere. If a book is great, I say, then it will find its way in the world, even if the person who wrote it is a recluse with no online presence at all. ‘Instead of thinking about your next TikTok video, concentrate on writing a brilliant book,’ has always been my advice.

But, I have to concede, that’s a rather optimistic view, and as traditional publishing becomes more risk-averse it can be a huge benefit to build your own profile, whatever stage of the game you’re at. Here then, are my top three tips for doing just that.
 

1. Build a Home On The Web
   
   An author needs a presence on the web, and ideally one curated and managed by them. Whether it’s a dedicated site, or a Substack page or similar, there needs to be some place where people searching for you can land, and from where they can get information direct from the horse's mouth.
   
   Put a bit of time into both the look and content of your site. It needs to look professional, with a design that reflects you and the book(s) you write. A well-crafted website serves as a virtual hub where you can showcase your work and engage with your readership. Include your biography, and summaries of your book(s). Remember to include ‘buy’ links if appropriate, and you might want to offer contact forms for readers to get in touch. 

2. Write a Blog Or Newsletter

   These are powerful tools through which you can connect with your audience on a regular basis. Through them, you authors can share insights, stories, and updates. It’s up to you! They require a fair bit of work, with consistent posting of relevant and interesting content. But they’re fun too, and through them you’re building a following which will stick with you. 

   There are several sites available, which will handle the design and distribution, allowing you to focus on content. I use Substack, and you can take a look here. (sjwatson.substack.com)
    

3.  Engage
   
   X/Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok etc. offer great ways of interacting with your audience. But do you have to engage on everything? My top tip is to do only what you enjoy. Otherwise it can seem forced and wooden, plus it can be a massive drain on your time. So find a way to engage that suits you. I post a ‘good morning’ photo every  day, for example. It’s not difficult and people tell me they enjoy the connection. 
   
   But remember it’s social media. Engage in conversations. No one likes those who only self-promote, so be funny, entertaining and a valued member of the community. By harnessing the power of social media, you can reach a wider audience, build a strong author brand, and cultivate a loyal community of readers. But have fun!