Around now, you should be thinking about your social media strategy and getting your following started.
Social Media is the largest tool that any author can utilize to increase readership and engagement for your book and events. We understand that social media is not for everyone, so it’s completely fine if you only have one of the following social networks. If you are completely adverse to social media, we understand as well, but please know that should you forego social media entirely, you may need to supplement the lack of publicity in this area with other publicity efforts to spread the word about your book.
We recommend selecting the social network(s) that you enjoy using. It is important to have fun with your social media! We also go by the “Thirds Rule”: Content on your social media platforms should be 1/3 book-related, 1/3 events, and 1/3 personal, or content that does not have to do with book promotion. This helps balance your accounts and remind your fans and followers that you’re a “real person”. The purpose of social media is to have fans feel closer and more connected to the people they follow. Think about how much of your personal life you’re willing to share, and how you might be able to do it in a way that is comfortable to you.
For example, Aimee Liu has taken a liking to photography, and shares beautiful photographs in addition to information about her books and events. Kim Stafford’s Instagram has a wonderful formula of alternating between a poem and a nature photograph for a gorgeous and consistent-looking grid.
Here are some points to keep in mind when building your social media strategy:
