Building an Author Platform: Why It Matters
The phrase “author platform” gets thrown around a lot. If you’re a writer, especially one pursuing publishing, chances are you’ve heard that building a platform is “essential.”
But what does that actually mean? And more importantly—why does it matter?
Whether you're writing fiction or nonfiction, agented or self-publishing, understanding and building your author platform isn’t about becoming internet-famous. It’s about creating connection, cultivating trust, and building a foundation to support your long-term career as a writer.
Let’s break it down.
What Is an Author Platform, Really?
At its core, an author platform is your visibility, reach, and influence—especially with the audience who will eventually read and buy your book. Think of your author platform as the story you want to tell about yourself and your writing.
An author platform is the answer to this question: If you released a book tomorrow, who would know about it—and why would they care?
Your platform is made up of multiple pieces that might include:
Your story of becoming an author
Why you write
An engaged social media presence
An email list
A blog or website
Speaking gigs or podcast interviews
Previous publications
Media coverage
Professional networks or communities
Partnerships or collaborations
A strong platform signals that you’ve already done the work of finding and nurturing your audience—which, in turn, makes agents and publishers more confident in your potential.
Why Your Author Platform Matters (Even Before You’re Published)
You don’t need to have tens of thousands of followers to get a book deal. But you do need to show that you understand how to connect with readers—and that you’re building momentum.
Here’s why your platform matters:
1. It Helps You Reach the Right Readers
Your platform is how people discover you and your work. Whether you’re sharing writing tips on Instagram, building an email list of people who love women’s fiction, or speaking on a podcast about motherhood and identity—these touchpoints create familiarity.
And when your book comes out? These are the people most likely to support, share, and buy.
2. Agents and Publishers Consider It
Especially for nonfiction, your platform can be a major deciding factor. But even for fiction, many agents and editors want to see that you’re building a foundation. A query letter that includes “I’ve grown a newsletter of 1,000 subscribers” or “I co-host a podcast with 5,000 downloads/month” tells them you’re invested in your success—and not relying solely on them to promote your book.
3. It Gives You Creative and Career Autonomy
An author platform gives you choices. With a growing audience of your own, you’re not dependent on a publisher’s marketing budget or social media algorithms. You get to speak directly to your readers, test ideas, build community, and create your own opportunities.
4. It Builds Trust and Connection
People buy books from authors they feel connected to. Whether you're sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of your writing process or curating a monthly newsletter with personal notes and book recommendations, your platform becomes an extension of your voice and values.
Readers want to know the person behind the pages. Your platform helps them do just that.
What Your Platform Doesn't Have to Be
Before you run to open five social media accounts, take a deep breath.
Your platform doesn’t need to be:
Viral
Built overnight
Built on every platform
Inauthentic to who you are
A full-time job
Sustainable platforms are built slowly, through consistency and genuine connection. And you get to decide what pieces feel good and aligned based on your values and where you want to focus your efforts.
How to Start Building Your Author Platform
Ready to begin? Here’s how to build a platform with intention:
1. Define Your Message and Audience
What do you write about? Who are you writing for? What themes, ideas, or stories connect your work?
This will guide everything—from your Instagram bio to your blog content to the tone of your newsletter.
2. Choose 1–2 Channels to Focus On
Pick the platforms you enjoy and where your readers are likely to spend time. A few examples:
Email list: Ideal for building deep, direct relationships
TikTok or Instagram: Great for storytelling through visuals
LinkedIn: Ideal for nonfiction authors, professionals, or business-focused content
YouTube or podcasting: Great for thought leadership, how-tos, or long-form content
Start with one or two. Grow from there.
3. Create Valuable, Consistent Content
Think about what your readers would genuinely enjoy or find helpful. This could be:
Writing updates or excerpts
Reflections on creativity, life, or identity
Book recommendations
Behind-the-scenes of your writing process
Thoughtful essays or opinion pieces
Consistency is more important than frequency. Start with once a week or even once a month—and stick with it.
4. Engage and Connect Authentically
Social media (and all platforms) work best when you treat them like a conversation, not a one-way broadcast.
Respond to comments. Celebrate others. Share what inspires you. Show up like a person, not just a writer trying to sell something.
5. Build an Email List Early
An email list is one of the most powerful tools you can have. Social platforms come and go, but your list is yours.
You can start with:
A simple sign-up form on your website
A free resource for writers or readers (like a short story, a word count tracker, or a reading list)
Monthly updates or personal notes to stay in touch
Over time, this list becomes your warmest, most loyal audience.
The Long Game of Being an Author
Building an author platform isn’t about chasing trends—it’s about building a sustainable, long-term connection with your readers.
It might feel slow at first. But every post, newsletter, and conversation is a brick in the foundation of your writing career.
You don’t have to do it perfectly. You just have to keep showing up. Because your voice matters. And your audience is out there—waiting to hear from you.
