So you wrote a book. That’s an accomplishment that many people never achieve. For some people just knowing that they completed such a monumental task is enough, but for the majority of authors, it’s just the beginning of an even bigger goal. If you have decided to embark on the self-publishing journey, the ultimate destination is most likely recognition and financial freedom. Who doesn’t imagine the life of a successful novelist? These are colossal goals, but they are not out of your reach, especially if you are willing to work hard and put the effort into creating a brand.
Be honest. When you think of branding, you probably associate the word with grocery store aisles stocked with brand name foods or clothing stores jam-packed with items affixed with labels from top-designers like Calvin Klein, Vera Wang, and such. But self-published authors are not immune to marketing and establishing a brand early on in your writing career not only gets you noticed but lends credibility to your voice, relaying the message to your target audience that you are an authority in your field. This goes a long way in getting you the attention you need to sell books over a long period of time.
Branding doesn’t have to be expensive. Sure, there are plenty of marketing companies out there that can help you with this task, but most self-published authors, especially new authors, have a limited budget. The good news is that you don’t need a lot of money to start developing your brand. You just need a plan of action.
Start with Your Website
Every author should have a website, blog, or landing page. This is your virtual calling card. When you begin marketing your books (your brand), you need to have a place that the people you meet, whether virtually or in person, can go back to and learn more about you and what you have planned for the future. You don’t have to build a fancy site. Sticking to the basics is great for self-published authors. A crisp, to-the-point layout with your bio, social media links and email contacts is perfect.
Uniformity Generates Instant Recognition
Authors do not generally have logos like cereal boxes or shoe brands. Instead, they rely on their physical image to garner recognition across the board. Instant recognition is created when you use the same photo and bio from one place to the next. The consistency in which your image and bio is distributed across social media platforms has a direct effect on how quickly readers recognize you as an author they like. Remember, you can easily forget a name, but most people won’t forget a face.
Network, Network, Network
One of the biggest favors you can do for yourself is to put yourself out there and connect with other authors. Networking isn’t just for executives. It’s for every single type of entrepreneur or business owner. Writers often have a difficult time imagining themselves as entrepreneurs, but we are and we have to accept that a portion of our job needs to be devoted to networking with other authors and individuals in the publishing industry, not just readers.
When networking, remember to give back and create honest connections. Don’t expect others to spread the message about your brand, if you are not willing to do the same. Win-win relationships in business are always built on mutualism.
Help other self-published authors right now. . .
In the spirit of mutualism, share with readers how you’ve found success in building your author brand. Leave your website in the comments and let’s get connected! And if you like what you read, please hit those share buttons and pass along the message to your fellow self-publishing friends and colleagues.
***
