Do I Have To Have One to Be a Successful Author?
Do you ever wonder how some authors seem to pop up everywhere—at events, in podcasts, on your social feed—while others stay invisible? Maybe you’ve finished your book, or you’re halfway through, but the idea of “building your author platform” feels overwhelming, mysterious, or downright intimidating. You’re not alone.
These days, it’s not enough to write a great story or have a killer idea. Publishers and readers want to know: who’s going to buy your book? That’s where your platform comes in. It’s your way to find readers, share your voice, and make sure your books don’t get lost in the crowd. In other words, yes, you do.
Maybe you think you need tens of thousands of followers or TikTok dances. Actually, you just need the right mix of visibility, real connections, and a spot where your audience can find and follow you. Additionally, anyone—whether introverted or extroverted—can take simple, creative steps to increase their visibility.
In this guide, you’ll see what an author platform really is, why it matters, and how you can build one without feeling like a pushy salesperson. We’ll cover smart, practical habits and provide concrete examples you can follow. Additionally, you’ll learn how to infuse your platform with authenticity, enabling your readers to trust and remember you. Ready to get your writing noticed? Let’s start.
Understanding Your Author Platform: Definition, Purpose, and Its Evolution
Now that you know why having an author platform is key for standing out, let’s break down exactly what an author platform is, why publishers care so much about it, and how things have changed in the last ten years.
What Is an Author Platform? (Key Definitions from Industry Experts and Authors)
You’ve probably seen a lot of confusing answers to the “What is an author platform?” question. As one expert at Booklaunch.com puts it: your author platform is really just “a direct connection to your audience that allows you to predictably and reliably sell books.”
It’s not just your website. It isn’t just about social media followers, either. It’s anything that helps you reach readers and move books—from public speaking and blogs to podcasts and even events.
April Dávila narrows it down to this: your platform is your ability to connect with readers. It’s not about being everywhere at once. Instead, it’s about being findable, building trust, and having some way for fans and publishing folks to check you out and engage with you. Your platform might be a polished website, a newsletter, an active podcast, or a single, consistent social channel where you show up for your readers.
According to Jon Friedl from Your Author Platform, it’s all about creating actual engagement—conversations, live streams, emails, and personal interactions—so you’re not just another voice lost in the online “stadium.” You want to be that person people remember and come back to, instead of someone they scroll past and forget.
Why Publishers and Agents Prioritize Author Platform Today
If you want to land an agent or a traditional book deal, your platform matters a lot. Multiple sources mention that in the early 2000s, author platform was barely discussed in publishing circles. But by 2012, it “was the most important factor” in decision-making for nonfiction at places like Seal Press. Post-2020, that’s true for almost all book projects—nonfiction and fiction alike.
Agents want to see you doing “something to build your audience,” even if you aren’t internet famous yet. Why? Because a strong platform means there’s proof you can help your publisher sell books. You have readers who care—maybe you’ve got a podcast, a blog with a following, a readership from another business, or just a reliable, growing email list.
The Shift in Responsibility: From Publishers to Authors
Here’s a reality check: you can’t sit back and hope your publisher’s marketing team will “make you a bestseller.” Things have changed. “The dream of getting a publishing deal and sitting back while your publisher takes care of making you a bestseller is dead.” These days, you’re expected to show up and do the work to get your book out there.
Back in the day, agents and publishers would help grow your audience. Now, it’s on you—they want to see your proven ability to gather fans, communicate, and build excitement for your work. Even the proposal process has changed. Agents and editors ask for details about your audience size, where you’re growing, and how you connect with readers.
The Role of the Platform in Securing Book Deals—Nonfiction and Fiction
You might think this is only important for nonfiction. Not anymore. Literary agent Mark Gottlieb says, “More and more, a platform is becoming important to fiction writing, whereas in the past it was mostly important to nonfiction authors”.
Editors and agents look for signs that you can reach fans: perhaps you have an industry blog, a following from speaking events, or you’re involved with strong communities. Authors like Andrea Robinson and Mark Nepo both landed big deals despite having little social media presence, but they achieved success in other areas, such as expert status, powerful contacts, or grassroots followings. That said, for most authors, platform is what gives a publisher faith in your sales potential.
Remember, your platform isn’t just about numbers—it’s about showing your unique expertise, voice, and ability to execute. The stronger your platform, the better your chances at landing an agent, getting a deal, and launching your book with a splash.
Building on this understanding of what an author platform really means, the next section will dig deeper into the core pillars that make up a strong, modern author platform—and how you can start building your own foundation.
Why Indie Authors Need a Platform (Even Without a Publisher)
If you’re publishing independently, your platform isn’t a nice-to-have—it’s your distribution, marketing, and customer service rolled into one. A strong platform lets you (1) reach readers repeatedly without paying every time, (2) launch books profitably, and (3) grow an audience that becomes more valuable with each release.
What changes for indies vs. traditionally published authors
- You are the marketing department. No in-house publicist or sales reps. Your email list, website, and communities drive discovery and retention.
- You keep the data. Direct relationships (email + store analytics) show what’s working so you can iterate quickly.
- You control pricing & promos. Run price drops, KU exits/entries, series-starter discounts, and newsletter swaps on your schedule.
- Series economics depend on reach. Read-through rises when you can re-contact fans right after new releases.
- Retailer algorithms reward momentum. Concentrated sales, reviews, and clicks from your platform lift visibility on Amazon, Kobo, Apple, and Google Play.
A sample indie platform may include:
- Home base: A simple site with series order, universal retailer links, and a clear “Start Here” book.
- Email list (the engine): Lead magnet (prequel, bonus epilogue, novella), welcome sequence, and value-first newsletters.
- One community channel you enjoy: Reader group on Facebook/Discord, or a Substack/Patreon for extras.
- Partnership network: Newsletter swaps, BookFunnel/StoryOrigin promos, podcast or blog appearances, and a short list of comparable authors for cross-promo.
- Review pipeline: An ARC team plus a launch checklist (ARC → reviews → reminder email).
Indie use-cases where platform pays off
- Rapid-release series: Announce the next book to your list/back matter and convert launch energy into read-through.
- Going wide or KU pivots: Bring readers with you across storefronts; segment by retailer so they get the right links.
- Direct sales: Higher royalties, bundles, signed copies, and premium editions when you can email buyers directly.
- Backlist resurrection: A themed promo to your list can revive a dormant title better than ads alone.
Core Pillars of an Effective Author Platform
Building on what we just discussed—how your author platform is all about connecting directly with your readers—let’s dig into the real nuts and bolts. Instead of trying to do everything at once or guessing what matters, focus on the actual pillars that nearly every successful author, from Hugh Howey to Stephen King, relies on. Let’s break these down, so you can see where to put your energy for big results.
Direct Audience Connection: The ‘Connection System’ (Outreach, Content, Permission)
You remember that the author platform is about more than being everywhere. At its heart, it’s your “direct connection to your audience that allows you to predictably and reliably sell books.” The most successful authors solve three core problems: getting noticed (Outreach), sharing their ideas (Content), and keeping in touch (Permission).
- Outreach is anything that moves people from not knowing you to knowing you. Think speaking at events, guesting on podcasts, or simply having your work mentioned online. Hugh Howey started small—blogging on his own site and attending conferences. That’s classic outreach.
- Content is the proof of your voice. Blogs, podcasts, serial fiction, and updates show readers what you’re about. Stephen King—well, you know him from his books, but his decades of publishing are an epic example of consistent content.
- Permission is your golden ticket: the ability to reach readers again and again. This is why an email list is so powerful. If you can email your fans when your next book drops, you aren’t relying on luck.
If you want a reliable author marketing plan, ask yourself: Are you visible? Are you sharing valuable content? Can you reach your fans directly, or do you have to start from scratch every time?
Ready to see which channels top authors use to connect with readers? Up next, we’ll break down the essentials: from your website to email lists, social media, podcasts, and live streams. Let’s now examine the channels where these pillars work best, so you can expand your reach without feeling overwhelmed.
Building Visibility and Engagement: Tactics and Strategies That Work
Building on the core pillars we explored—direct audience connection, content, and permission—it’s time to see what actually works in the real world. Visibility and engagement are where your author platform gets tested. Here’s how you can actively grow your presence and connect with the readers who will support your books.
Creating and Sharing Content: Blogging, Videos, Podcasts, Guest Posts
Let’s start with content creation. Earlier, we discussed authors like Hugh Howey, who started with blogging. You don’t need to be a tech wizard or a marketing guru to get started. Think of your platform as an evolving collection of ways to share your voice, your story, and your expertise.
Blogging is a classic, reliable method. You control your website and content, so new readers always have a place to “find” you. April Dávila, for example, built her basic website and blog as her first step, which paid off when her book was released years later. Don’t worry if your posts aren’t perfect—you’ll get better with time.
Video is another huge opportunity. Kevin Barhydt hesitated at first, unsure whether a YouTube channel about his memoir subjects would find any viewers. But he stuck with it. His early videos were shaky, but he got better, and so did his audience numbers. Over the course of two years, he created more than 70 episodes, drawing in real engagement by being authentic and vulnerable.
Podcasts are another path. Jon Friedl shares that launching a podcast takes time—the first episode rarely explodes, but consistency pays off. He now reaches thousands of listeners across platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Even one targeted episode can introduce your work to new crowds.
Guest posting expands your reach. Writing for respected sites or participating in interviews puts your name in front of audiences who may never come across your site or social media feed. For example, being a guest on a podcast or writing for a genre blog allows you to connect directly with readers who are already interested in your topic.
What matters is finding the content format that matches your strengths. Enjoy writing? Try regular blogs. Love talking? Start a podcast or short video series. Like helping other writers? Guest blog or appear on panels. The point isn’t perfection—it’s consistency and showing up where readers hang out.
Next, let’s dig into how you can leverage social media platforms to amplify this content and start interactive, loyal communities—even if you’re not a natural “influencer.”
Leveraging Social Media: Facebook Groups, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, Reddit
Now that you have some content out there, where should you share it to achieve real impact? Social media helps you build connections beyond your own website. However, it isn’t just about accumulating followers, it’s about being findable and interactive, not shouting into the void.
Facebook Groups are a standout tool for authors. Jon Friedl built a Facebook Group of nearly 18,000 members, offering a space for discussion, support, and sharing updates. It’s a place to test book ideas, ask for feedback, or post event invites. Honestly, it’s like having your own team of cheerleaders.
Twitter (now X) is great for quick updates, conversations, and connecting around topics using hashtags. Although it may not be as fast-growing, it remains a space where writers and readers gather daily. For Kevin Barhydt, Twitter became the spot where his YouTube and blog updates gained traction, fueling engagement on other channels.
Instagram and Threads are more visual, making them perfect if your writing process involves imagery, short videos, graphics, or story snippets. Readers love behind-the-scenes looks—think writing desks, book stacks, or daily routines. You don’t have to post every day, just regularly enough that your audience trusts you’ll show up.
Reddit deserves a special mention. It has numerous niche communities (subreddits) for every genre, writing topic, and reading interest imaginable. Being active here means joining conversations, giving advice, or posting updates—without being spammy. Posting on r/selfpublish or r/books could get your work in front of thousands, organically.
The real benefit of these platforms is that you can interact instantly with your audience. Post a chapter sneak peek and ask for thoughts. Share the struggle of editing and invite encouragement. Respond personally to comments, and people will remember you.
Still, don’t try to master every single network at once. Pick one or two that match your personality and stick with it. Kevin Barhydt recommends joining existing communities related to your genre or themes. This way, you’re not starting from scratch—you’re joining conversations already happening.
Before you know it, those interactions turn into book buyers, event attendees, or even advocates for your work. Next, let’s look at how reviews, events, and interviews can take your organic reach even further—no advertising budget required.
Utilizing Reviews, Literary Events, and Interviews for Organic Growth
So, you’ve started sharing content and building connections on social media. What’s next? Harness the power of reviews, literary events, and interviews. These opportunities can send your name rolling through new circles, often with a level of credibility that’s hard to get with ads or cold emails.
Let’s start with reviews—these aren’t just for Amazon or Goodreads. Tiffany Hawk suggests writing and posting reviews for other authors as a way to get noticed. By supporting your peers, you build goodwill and often receive reviews in return when your book is published. Additionally, posting reviews on your blog or sharing them on Instagram Stories helps your name gain recognition within the writing community.
Guest reviews also matter. Contributing to popular book blogs or journals like the Los Angeles Review of Books exposes you to new readers and signals to publishers you’re engaged in the literary conversation. Don’t overlook small genre blogs or newsletters—sometimes their devoted fans make the best advocates.
Attending, volunteering at, or speaking at literary events is another proven growth tactic. Whether it’s a local book club, a virtual panel, or a large conference (think Writers Digest or WorldCon), being present allows you to meet readers one-on-one. If big events feel overwhelming, start by volunteering—handing out badges or moderating a panel is a friendly way to network with less pressure.
Interviews are golden for organic reach. Many podcasts and small publications seek out new authors, and they love enthusiastic storytellers. Kevin Barhydt experienced a significant increase in engagement following podcast interviews and local newspaper features. Each appearance sent readers hunting for his book and website.
But don’t let imposter syndrome stop you from reaching out. Even if you’re unpublished, interviewers want people with a fresh story and genuine passion. Start with small blogs or podcasts focused on your genre or topic—these often have loyal, attentive listeners.
Combining these methods—peer reviews, event participation, and interviews—not only increases your visibility, it also leaves a trail for readers to follow back to your primary platform, whether that’s your website, email list, or most active social feed.
Ready for wider reach? Next, we’ll cover outreach strategies, including public speaking, book clubs, conferences, and creative partnerships—all ways to take your author presence into the world with confidence.
Outreach Methods: Public Speaking, Book Clubs, Conferences, Partnerships
By now, you’re getting good at sharing your message online. However, for even greater reach, it’s essential to step into the real (or virtual) world with proactive outreach. Here’s how authors like you create lasting impressions, even without huge budgets or famous names.
Public speaking is powerful. Seriously, nothing beats the credibility and connection you get from sharing your story face-to-face. Kevin Barhydt, for instance, started with small talks and grew into regular podcast and event appearances. Whether you prefer libraries, schools, or writing workshops, a fifteen-minute reading or Q&A can bring new fans straight to your email list or social profiles.
Book clubs are another friendly way to spread the word. Being a featured guest—either in-person or via Zoom—is lower-pressure than attending a big conference and allows you to connect deeply with readers. You get to answer questions, sign books, and chat about your writing process. Some authors even start their own themed book clubs to create a steady stream of engagement.
Conferences (in-person or digital) are everywhere these days. Tiffany Hawk highlights big ones like Bouchercon, WorldCon, and Writers Digest for their networking potential. But honestly, volunteering at these events is especially great for introverts—you’ll have a job, meet people easily, and get to know the community without the awkward “small talk” guesswork.
Partnerships and collaborations can expand your reach faster than solo efforts. This includes cross-promoting with other authors, hosting joint webinars, or exchanging newsletter mentions. For example, guesting on a friend’s podcast or sharing their book in your newsletter creates a win-win for both audiences.
Don’t forget literary organizations. Volunteering with groups tied to your genre (think SCBWI for children’s books, or Romance Writers of America) positions you as a contributor, not just a self-promoter. As Tiffany Hawk says, “Our industry needs it! Plus, it feels really good to be helping rather than promoting. It’s a win-win.”
The magic isn’t in a single outreach event, but in showing up over time—at library events, on podcasts, in book clubs, or at conferences. You become familiar, then trusted, then essential to your audience.
With these practical strategies, you’re well on your way to building a vibrant, engaged author platform by combining meaningful content, smart social moves, organic relationship-building, and active outreach.
Next, let’s move beyond numbers and tactics to explore a side of platform-building that’s often forgotten—but makes all the difference: authenticity, vulnerability, and contributing to the literary community.
Beyond the Numbers: Authenticity, Vulnerability, and Literary Citizenship
Now that you’ve seen practical ways to boost your author presence—think content creation, social media, events, and outreach—let’s go deeper. It’s not just about bigger numbers. What keeps readers sticking around and opens new doors? Honesty, human connection, and supporting fellow writers matter every bit as much as your newsletter stats or Instagram following.
The Value of Vulnerability and Personal Storytelling
Earlier, we discussed how showing up is more important than being everywhere at once. Well, how you show up is even more critical. Kevin Barhydt’s story delivers this lesson with heart. Early in his platform journey, Kevin felt that the whole “visibility” game was just a set of dull tasks—blog, website, social media. It wasn’t until he faced his fear of vulnerability that things truly began to click.
Instead of only pushing his book, Kevin started a YouTube channel where he shared personal stories about abandonment, addiction, and the healing process. “It was tough enough to imagine people reading my memoir,” he admits, “but the idea of talking about my life on video? That’s a long way beyond vulnerable!” Yet, as he made raw, unpolished videos, the responses poured in. He realized, “The funny thing about being vulnerable and putting yourself out there… people actually find you interesting.”
April Dávila takes a similar approach. Her early blogs and newsletters provided her a place to reflect upon her writing journey, not just pitch her work. That sense of realness is what attracts loyal readers. It’s not just about selling a book—it’s about sharing moments and struggles.
So if you’re nervous about revealing your struggles or quirks, remember: your personal truth is a magnet. As you dare to be open (yes, even a bit uncomfortable), you create a space for readers to see themselves and build real trust. That trust? It’s the backbone of any sustainable author platform.
Let’s take this spirit one step further—how can you give back, build relationships, and be a true citizen in the book world, not just a self-promoter?
Building Relationships: Promoting Other Authors, Volunteering, and Good Literary Citizenship
Drawing inspiration from the vulnerability we just explored, you might wonder, “How do I deepen these connections?” The answer: literary citizenship. Tiffany Hawk suggests this is one of the most effective—and surprisingly rewarding—ways to grow your author platform.
So, what does good literary citizenship look like? It means showing up for other writers, not just for yourself. Promote their books and share honest reviews—on Goodreads, your blog, or social media. Even a short Instagram post or a thoughtful tweet can make someone’s day and get your name circulating in author circles.
Volunteering is another underused but powerful tactic. If you’re an introvert or don’t love social media, jump in behind the scenes! Help at conferences by greeting attendees or moderating panels, as Hawk recommends. Volunteer for a local literary group or a relevant genre association (like SCBWI for children’s books). Not only are you helping others, but you’re steadily building a reputation as someone who gives, not just takes.
Why is this so effective? People remember those who lift them up. Authors you’ve supported are more likely to mention you, review your book, or invite you to collaborate. Additionally, agents and editors tend to look favorably on writers who contribute to the broader community. It shows you’re serious, professional, and active in the book world.
Honestly, it feels good too. As Hawk puts it, “Our industry needs it! Plus, it feels really good to be helping rather than promoting.”
Of course, these efforts only work if they come from a sincere place. Next, we’ll talk about how to keep it real—and why readers can always tell the difference between authenticity and hustle.
Authenticity Versus Profit-Driven Efforts: Building Trust with Readers
After exploring how lending a hand can expand your reach, let’s talk trust. Building a true author platform isn’t a numbers game—it’s about genuine connection. Readers have strong radar for insincerity. As Jon Friedl explains, “Credibility is crucial… It’s clear when someone focuses solely on making money rather than building a genuine relationship.”
Put simply, your audience can easily distinguish between authentic sharing and constant sales pitches. April Dávila recalls missing out on supporting writers she admired—just because she couldn’t find a real way to connect. That’s a powerful lesson: it’s not about mass marketing. It’s about being findable and showing you care.
Want an example? Friedl built communities where the goal wasn’t just profit, but honest exchange. He created over 1,000 YouTube videos (with five million views) and hosted over 200 live streams—and much of his business came from helping, not hustling. His audience grew because they knew he was accessible and cared about their experiences.
You don’t have to be all business, either. Sharing a favorite book, spotlighting a debut author, or being honest about your own struggles with a manuscript—all of these things build a foundation of trust. This authenticity keeps readers engaged and willing to follow you beyond just a single book launch.
Still, you might ask, “Isn’t promoting my work important?” Absolutely. The trick is balance. Let’s explore how you can promote your own books while still giving back and maintaining a platform that aligns with your values.
Balancing Promotion with Community Contribution
Tying all these threads together, here’s the final secret: strong platforms blend promotion with contribution. Yes, you need to tell people about your books. But if your platform is only about YOU, it won’t last.
Think of the 80/20 rule we touched on earlier. Spend 20% of your time on self-promotion—book launches, email blasts, pre-order links. Dedicate the rest to building and serving your community. This could involve sharing another writer’s success, offering tips to someone starting out, or responding to emails from readers with genuine care.
Kevin Barhydt found that as he gave back to his communities—by responding to every comment, collaborating on podcasts, and volunteering for local literary boards—interest in his work grew naturally. He stayed visible as a human, not just a marketer. Similarly, April Dávila’s newsletter gained loyal readers because it shared stories, not just announcements.
Where can you start? Maybe feature an “Author of the Month” in your newsletter. Or host a giveaway of someone else’s book. Volunteer for a conference panel or mentor new writers in your genre’s association. These small acts build goodwill and open doors—often in surprising ways. Editors and agents appreciate authors who support one another and foster a thriving literary community.
Ultimately, blending promotion with contribution makes your author platform both satisfying and sustainable. Your readers don’t just buy your story—they join your story.
Next up, let’s translate these big ideas into practical steps. You’ll receive clear, realistic advice on starting, growing, and tracking your platform success—no matter where you’re starting.
Practical Steps to Create and Sustain Your Platform
Building on everything we’ve discussed—from connecting authentically to blending promotion with contribution—it’s time to roll up your sleeves. Let’s get practical about building your author platform in a way that works for real life, not just theory. I’ll walk you through how to actually start, what routines to try, how to tell what’s working, and ways to evolve as your career grows. You don’t need a huge marketing budget or thousands of followers. You need to develop a few smart habits and the willingness to persist.
Start Small: Launching a Website, Newsletter, or Social Channel
So where do you start? Honestly, the first step is often the hardest, but it’s also the most important. April Dávila’s experience is a perfect example: she built a basic website and started a monthly newsletter long before her debut novel hit shelves. That small digital home became a huge asset when her book (142 Ostriches) launched—her audience was already there, ready and waiting.
Don’t worry about launching everything at once. A single, findable place—a clean website with your bio, a contact form, and links to your social or email list—is enough. Sites like WordPress or Squarespace make this super doable, even if you’re not tech-savvy. You can try using a free author website template to get going quickly.
Newsletters are gold for long-term growth. You own that audience—it’s not subject to social media algorithms or platform changes. Even if only a handful of people sign up at first, those are your first true fans. Share your journey, small updates, or helpful resources each month.
Finally, if you feel comfortable, choose one social media channel where you can consistently show up—Facebook, Instagram, or even a private Facebook Group, as Jon Friedl did with his group of nearly 18,000. The point isn’t to go viral, but to start real conversations and be reachable.
Take the first small step this week: claim your domain, set up a simple landing page, or send your first email update. Remember, you’re not shouting into the void—you’re inviting readers into your creative world.
Now, once you have your starting base, the real progress comes from showing up again and again. Let’s talk about how consistency—not perfection—wins the day for authors like you.
Let’s wrap up your author platform journey. Building a strong, visible presence as a writer isn’t about having a huge following or mastering every social app. It’s about showing up where your readers are, connecting through genuine content, and consistently inviting people into your creative world. We’ve seen that genuine engagement—such as email lists, supportive communities, and honest storytelling—trumps empty numbers every time. Authors like Hugh Howey and April Dávila demonstrate that even simple steps, such as launching a basic website or sharing one’s journey, can pay off significantly when it matters most.
Infusing your platform with authenticity and literary citizenship doesn’t just help your book; it builds deep, lasting loyalty. Balancing self-promotion with supporting others is how you move from being just another name to a valued member of the writing community.
So, what’s next? Start small: claim your digital space, connect with your audience, and be consistent. Your voice matters, and the world is waiting to hear it. Take that first bold step—your readers (and future self) will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Got questions? You’re not the only one—we’re all in the same boat, navigating platform-building while trying to write great books. The FAQs below tackle the most common sticking points so you can chart a clear course and keep your momentum.
Absolutely! Many introverts have thriving author platforms. You can focus on strategies that suit your comfort level, such as writing blog posts, participating in small online groups, or connecting through a newsletter. Good platforms are about real connections, not being “everywhere” or super outgoing.
Yes, you can—and it’s smart to start early. Share your writing journey, insights, or book-related interests through a website, social media, or a newsletter. Authors like April Dávila began connecting with readers long before their first book came out, which built support for launch day.
Definitely. You don’t have to be on every social media site. Many successful authors choose the channel that suits them—such as a single website, a podcast, or an email newsletter—and appear there regularly. Consistent, quality engagement is more important than spreading yourself thin.
Yes! Social media isn’t everything. Some authors grow their platforms through podcasts, newsletters, guest posts, public speaking, or even live events and book clubs. Building an email list is one proven way to connect directly with your readers, even if you’re not active on social networks.
Yes, and it’s important! Track simple numbers like email signups, website visits, or responses to your posts. Notice what brings new readers or engagement and do more of that. Many authors use the 80/20 rule: focus your energy on the few tactics that get the biggest results for your unique audience.
