The 3 things you need in order to build your author platform on a firm foundation

Chris Robley

November 20, 2014

You’ve probably heard a lot about the importance of building an author platform.

According to publishing expert Jane Friedman, when editors and agents say they’re looking to work with authors who have an existing platform, what they really mean is they’re searching for a writer “with visibility and authority who has proven reach to a target audience.”

But before you get all excited and try to build a taller, wider, shinier platform than the next writer in your genre, consider this: all your platform-building efforts will be a waste of time if you’re not starting off on solid ground.

So what is a solid author foundation?

A sturdy foundation for a writer’s platform is comprised of three things.

4 reasons you should prioritize your author website over social media

Chris Robley

1 Comment

June 3, 2014

Nowadays, “web presence” is a big part of telling your story as a writer. In fact, the majority of your readers will probably discover you and your writing online first.

When publishing industry folks talk about "building a platform," they're often thinking about an author's online presence, email list, social media following, blog activity, and web-based book sales. But as you establish your own web presence, it's important to remember that your author website is more important than any single social media platform.

Here are four reasons why you should prioritize your author website over any social media account:

1. You need design control

Social media = generic profiles plastered with ads and other distractions. With your own site, you create a design that suits your vibe and functions the way you need it to. Plus, the layout won’t change unexpectedly overnight. (I'm looking at YOU Facebook!)

Building Your Author Platform in 10 Hours a Week (Including Writing Time!)

Chris Robley

6 Comments

January 10, 2013

Build your author platform before your next book launch, so you can harness the power of potential buyers, industry contacts, and your entire web community.

Is Your Author Website Ready to Meet the Press?

Chris Robley

5 Comments

June 26, 2012

If you want journalists, critics, and bloggers to take a serious interest in your book, you have to make things easy for them. It starts with an author website that gives them everything they need.

How to Build Your Author Brand

Chris Robley

2 Comments

December 27, 2011

Building Your Brand: how authors can promote their work while protecting their souls

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There are tons of places authors can find information on building a brand or platform. So many that it’s often overwhelming. It’s easy to want to hide in your hermit cave and write the next book.

No worries. Even I feel like that most of the time. As an Introvert, my strength comes from my ability to sit alone and focus, get the job done.