Establishing your personal brand as an indie author is key to finding readers and selling books in a crowded market. With no major publisher marketing budget behind you, you must become your own publicity machine. Building an author brand takes time and effort, but it allows you to directly connect with your target audience. This article will explore the essential steps every indie author needs to take in order to create a distinctive and memorable brand identity.
Build Your Author Website
Your author website is the cornerstone of your indie author brand. It’s where readers can learn about you, find your books, and sign up for your mailing list. Make sure your website looks professional and is easy to navigate. Include an author bio with a portrait photograph or logo, books page, press page, contact page, and opt-in form for your mailing list. Use high-quality author photos taken by a professional portrait photographer and book covers. Update your website regularly with new content like book releases, events, and articles.
Engage on Social Media
Social media allows you to connect directly with readers and build an audience for your books. Choose 1-3 platforms to focus on like Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok. Post regularly sharing writing tips, book recommendations, behind the scenes of your writing life, as well as promoting your new releases. Engage with readers by responding to comments and questions. Join Facebook author groups and participate in writer hashtags on TT and Instagram. Just remember social media works best when the engagement is authentic.
Create Shareable Content
Blogging, videos, and podcasts are great for sharing your knowledge while also introducing yourself as an author. Blog posts can give readers a taste of your writing style as well as your expertise. For videos and podcasts, cover topics related to your book genre or about the writing craft in general. Include your book titles and website link as part of your author branding. Promote this content on your website and social media to maximise reach.
Build Your Mailing List
An email mailing list allows you to contact your readers directly whenever you have a new release or announcement. Include a call-to-action on your website inviting visitors to join your list. Offer a free e-book as an incentive. Send regular newsletters with book updates, sales promotions, events, and more. Just make sure you only send content your subscribers will find valuable.
Partner with Other Authors
Connecting with other indie authors can help gain exposure for your books and brand. Join a professional organisation like the Alliance of Independent Authors for support and resources. Seek out collaborations like multi-author box sets, cross promotions, and joint book launches. Participate in blog hops, takeovers, and other online events to expand your reach. Always be professional and reliable when partnering so you continue to build positive relationships.
Attend Events and Conferences
Look for opportunities to meet readers in-person at local book fairs, literary festivals, and writing conferences. These events allow you to sign and sell books directly while networking with fellow authors and influencers.
With dedication and care, you can build an author brand that supports your indie publishing career.
