The Author Platform
The prevailing wisdom in the writing world is to establish an “author platform”, a way to build connections with readers.
I’m all in on the purpose of the author platform.
I’m not all in on its execution, though. Social media and me aren’t best friends. Calling up bookstores to beg them to stock my book is not in my wheelhouse. Many experts argue “author platform” isn’t straight-up marketing and publicity—maybe they’re right—only, it takes many of the same skills.
At one time, publishers took care of that aspect of the business. Now it’s up to the author. I can sigh about the “good-ole-days” (which probably weren’t as rose-tinted as I’d like to believe) or I can acknowledge this is the way of the writing world.
BUT that doesn’t mean I have to participate. I don’t have to engage in social media or struggle to find the right audience. I DO have to be aware of the consequences—maybe my stories won’t find the widest reach—but I DO have to be true to myself. I’d much prefer to chat one-on-one with you.
Which means, I’m not going to stress over my author platform, and you don’t have to, either. Be aware of its role, but don’t feel backed into a corner. Write because you love to write, talk about your writing with whom you feel comfortable and let the chips fall where they may. That’s the way to be your full, true, authentic, writer-self.