Authors write books. It's what they do and what they love. Many authors, especially the self-published authors, are falling victim to one of the most dangerous mistakes known to the publishing industry: not having a platform.
As an author, having a platform is crucial to the success of your book. You should use your book to build your platform which in turn will create other avenues in which you can earn money. Most authors fail to take the time to learn what their platform is, and therefore, miss out on hundreds if not thousands of dollars.
What is a platform? An author's platform is what you are doing to reach those people you want to buy your books, or how you plan to reach them. It is that thing you are doing to get people to relate to you. An example of an author platform would be a single mother who has published a book. Though her book may be fiction, the fact that she is a single mom who has accomplished her dream of becoming a published author can be used as a platform to reach other single moms and women in general, whether they be parents or not. This same author can now garner speaking engagements from groups that host events in her area, and may be approached by various radio and television shows for interviews. At the engagements she will most likely be offered an opportunity to sell her books. And during her radio and television interviews, she will be asked to tell people where they can get copies of her book.
Your assignment is to take out a pen and paper and make a list of topics that you have experienced personally or have knowledge of that you would be willing to share with your readers to gain their attention and support. People like to feel that they can relate to someone. This in turn builds trust. Once you have gained the trust of your potential readers, they are no longer just readers; they become fans, and in turn, they become loyal supporters of you and your work.
Until next time,
~Sandra~
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