How You Can Leverage Social Media to Build Your Audience

Mar 11

For new authors, social media is a powerful tool to build an audience, connect with readers, and promote their books. But simply having an account isn’t enough, you need a strategy.

1. Choose the Right Platforms

Not all platforms are created equal. Focus on the ones that best align with your audience and content style:

Instagram: Great for visual storytelling, book aesthetics, and engaging with the #Bookstagram community.
TikTok: A growing space for authors thanks to #BookTok, where short videos and SEO keywords can help books go viral.
Facebook: Useful for author pages, reader groups, and long-form engagement.
LinkedIn: Perfect for non-fiction authors looking to establish expertise.

2. Engage, Don’t Just Promote

Social media isn’t just a billboard, it’s a conversation. Share behind-the-scenes content, writing tips, book recommendations, and personal insights. Interact with readers, respond to comments, and build genuine relationships. If you just keep posting buy my book people will get tired of it. So be yourself and engage while also sprinkling in the bookish content.

3. Follow the Trends

Leverage trends whether it be music, popular voice overs and aesthetics to increase visibility. Join relevant trends and challenges to engage a wider audience.

4. Create a Content Plan

Consistency is key. Plan a mix of content, including:

Personal posts (your writing journey, challenges, and wins)
Promotional posts (book updates, release dates, and sales)
Engagement posts (polls, questions, and discussions)
Behind-the-scenes posts (your writing process, workspace, or inspirations)

5. Collaborate and Network

Engage with fellow writers, book bloggers, and influencers in your genre. Cross-promote content, do giveaways, participate in live discussions, and join online writing communities.

Final Thoughts

Social media is a long-term game, not an overnight success. Stay authentic, be patient, and focus on creating meaningful connections. Over time, your audience will grow, and so will your reach as an author.

E.D. Yates