Attend any writers’ conference and at some point the questions about an online presence will be heard.
- Is a website really necessary?
- Do I have to succumb to the social media craze?
- Should I invest my time in an online presence, or should I just focus on my writing?
Spoiler alert: there are no definitive answers.
However, a website provides a platform, and social media is more than a craze. An online presence can help you make connections, build name recognition, and draw readers to your books. So in short, it’s an investment worth making.
There are multiple ways to establish an online presence, and you don’t need to juggle them all. One strong platform is better than multiple weak ones. Read about some popular options, and if you’re just getting started, pick one that resonates with you.
Website
If interested readers search for you, this is the place where they’ll learn more about you and find easy access to your work. You can hire a professional to create a website for you, or you can create and manage your own with the help of tools like Wix or WordPress.
When you’re ready to begin, come up with a domain name that is short, to the point, and easy to spell. If the domain name is available, you can purchase it, usually for a nominal annual fee. A quick online search will yield lots of resources to guide you through this process.
You can create an effective website without a lot of razzle-dazzle. In fact, the “keep it simple” rule is best. Your home page should direct readers to some basics about you and your work. Add a few eye-catching images, and if you have a book to sell, create a “click to buy” button.
Beyond that, a few tabs can lead readers to additional content. If you want to be a blogger, add a Blog tab. If you have multiple publications, add a Books tab. If you want to provide access to a short bio and some professional photos, add a Media tab. If you want to advertise your professional speaking, editing services, or school visits, you guessed it…add a tab for that!
Social Media Options
Social media is an easy way to establish connections and build name recognition. The most popular platforms are probably already familiar to you. But while you may have personal social media accounts, keep these separate from your professional accounts. Remember, your purpose is to promote your work, establish your brand, and connect with others in your field.
And speaking of connection, remember that social media platforms create an online community. Be a contributing part of that community by promoting the work of other authors, leaving comments, and liking posts.
You can pick one platform or try to juggle several, but a great rule of thumb is to use the same handle for each. And if your social media handle matches the domain name of your website, that’s even better.
Instagram is an easy platform for visual promotion, and while it’s a must for illustrators, it can also work well for authors. Decide what you want your author brand to look like, and tailor your posts to fit that vision.
→ Tip: While you can’t add website links to your Instagram posts, you can put them in your bio and/or Instastory.
Facebook is often looked at as the old grandpa of social media these days, but that doesn’t mean you need to ignore it. One bonus of Facebook is that unlike Instagram, you can embed links in your post.
→ Tip: If you have an Instagram account, you can link it to Facebook so that posts are automatically shared on both platforms.
Twitter is more about words and less about images. The character count is limited, but it’s a great place to put out quick information and engage followers. Also, you can embed links in your posts.
→ Tip: Expand your visibility and connections by learning to use hashtags.
TikTok
TikTok is an app that shares short video content, and within its vast network, BookTok has been an explosive marketing tool for many authors. If you have a flair for the dramatic, a great sense of humor, or some personal charisma, this platform was made for you.
→ Tip: Just kidding. I have no tips because I’m not a champion of the aforementioned attributes!
The great news is that you don’t have to try to establish all of these platforms at once, or at all. Pick one that you feel comfortable with, and have some fun. Be creative. Make connections with others in the writing community, build relationships, support your fellow authors, and let your authentic light shine.
