Can you tell us what an online author platform is and what the benefits are of having one?
An online author platform refers to an author’s presence online be it a website or social media channels. In today’s digital age where most readers communicate and interact online, having one makes it easier for readers to interact with authors. It’s such a different publishing world now and authors need to go where their readers are hanging out.
What are some ways a writer can create an engaged online community?
Be yourself online. Answer queries from your readers — you can answer it publicly or on a private message. Repost it when you get some love from readers of your books. User generated content (UGC) are priceless so don’t ignore them. Don’t be afraid to show your personality — and also, talk about books that you love. It’s a great way to build a community not just with readers but with other authors as well.
What are the common pitfalls writers make when creating their online author platform?
If you’re on social media, you can’t just post once a month. If you’re going to be in it, make sure you do it right. It doesn’t mean you need to post twice a day or everyday, just make sure it’s regular. Twice a week is a good start. Also, you don’t need to be on every single social media platform. My suggestion is a website + a social media account. You just need to figure out which social media channel suits you.
Kristyn M. Levis is a freelance writer, author and photographer based in Sydney. She is currently the managing editor of Her Collective and creative director of 3C Digital. Her first novel, The Girl Between Two Worlds, was published in 2016. Book Two, The Girl Between Light and Dark, was released in May 2018. Her latest book, The Search forAdarna, was published in September 2019.
Join Kristyn M. Levis for her seminar, Create Your Online Author Platform on Wednesday 13 November, 6:30-9pm at Writing NSW.
