How Authors Build Their Public Profiles

In today's digital age, building a public profile is essential for authors. An engaging public persona can attract more readers and enhance credibility.

Author Profile

An author profile is more than just a biography. It showcases an author's personality, story, and works. This profile serves as a vital tool for readers, publishers, and media outlets. A strong author profile builds connections and invites readers to engage with the author's content.

To create an effective author profile, consider these key components:

• Personal Story: Share your journey in writing. Readers connect with personal stories, so outline what motivated you to become an author.

• Professional Background: Highlight your experience. Include any notable achievements or qualifications that enhance your credibility.

• Writing Style and Themes: Describe the genres you write and the themes present in your work. This information helps readers understand what to expect from your books. You can use this section to promote your works effectively.

Define Your Author Brand

Your brand is more than just your genre—it's your voice, values, and vibe.

• Ask: What themes run through my books? What do I want readers to feel?

• Choose 2–3 consistent topics beyond writing (e.g., mental health, true crime, seaside towns).

• Maintain a cohesive tone across platforms—mysterious, warm, witty, bold, etc.

Building an Online Presence

In the modern world, having a robust online presence is crucial. Most readers are likely to seek information online before purchasing a book. Building an effective online presence involves using various platforms and strategies.

Create a Dedicated Website

Your website serves as your central hub. Ensure it’s visually attractive, user-friendly, and filled with useful information. It should contain:

• A biography section with your personal story and professional background.

• A blog to showcase your writing skills and promote discussions.

• A list of your published works, with links where readers can purchase your books. You might consider linking to your books for easier access.

  
  

A woman on a laptop.

Leverage Social Media

Social media platforms are indispensable for authors. They allow you to connect with readers directly. Utilise different platforms to share updates, insights into your writing process, and engage in conversations. Here are some tips for effective social media use:

• Choose the right platforms: Booktok, Instagram, and Facebook are great for authors. Identify where your target audience hangs out most.

• Post consistently: A regular posting schedule keeps your audience engaged.

• Engage with your followers: Respond to comments and messages. This builds a loyal community around you.

How to engage readers on TikTok

TikTok is fast-paced, and users scroll quickly. Start each video with a strong hook:

• “You won’t believe what this thriller is about…”

• “POV: You find out your mother isn’t who she says she is…”

• Use curiosity, emotion, or bold claims to grab attention.

Hop on popular audio, formats, and hashtags—but tailor them to your book or brand.

• Recreate trending POVs with your characters.

• Use trending sounds and overlay your plot/character themes.

• Hashtags to use: #BookTok, #ThrillerTok, #IndieAuthor, #ReadThisBook

Readers connect with you, not just your book cover. Build trust by showing behind-the-scenes:

• Talk about why you wrote the book.

• Share struggles and wins as a self-published author.

• Use storytelling to make people care before they click.

Stack of old books

Engage with Your Audience

Building a public profile also means engaging with your audience. Consider these approaches:

Host Events

Organising book signings or participating in workshops showcases your personality while promoting your works. It encourages real-life interactions, building strong reader relationships.

Participate in Online Forums

Platforms like Goodreads allow you to engage with readers. Participate in discussions, answer questions, and share insights about your works or writing process.

Utilise Email Newsletters

Creating a newsletter can effectively keep your most dedicated fans updated. Share news, upcoming events, and exclusive content. Personalised messages can make your audience feel special and valued.

Collaborate with Other Authors

Collaboration can greatly enhance your profile. Here are some approaches:

• Be a supporter: Support other authors - there is strength in community.

• Guest Blogging: Write guest posts on other authors' blogs or invite them to write on yours. This fosters a sense of community and can lead to mutual promotion.

  
  

Collaborating in these ways encourages sharing ideas and expanding visibility within the literary community.

Adapt and Refine Your Strategy

Creating a public profile is not a one-time effort. It requires ongoing adaptation and refinement. Pay attention to feedback from readers and shifts in the market. Analyse what works and what doesn't.

Regularly update your profile and website to reflect your latest achievements and publications. This shows you are active and committed to your craft.

It’s also wise to keep an eye on authors in your genre or niche. Learning from their strategies can inspire new ideas for building your own profile.

Please leave any other tips in the comments - we are stronger together.