“A book doesn’t just need a reader; it needs a stage from which to be seen.”
You’ve poured your heart and soul into writing your book. Every word, every chapter is a reflection of your thoughts, insights, and expertise. But before your book can make an impact, it needs an audience. Building a platform before your book is published is essential for ensuring that your message reaches the people who need it most. In today’s digital age, a strong platform can mean the difference between a book that sits unnoticed on a shelf and one that becomes a bestseller.
1. Understand Your Target Audience
The first step in building your platform is understanding who your target audience is. Who are the people most likely to resonate with your book? What are their needs, interests, and challenges? Understanding your audience will help you tailor your platform-building efforts to attract the right people.
Start by creating a detailed profile of your ideal reader. Consider factors such as age, gender, occupation, education level, and spiritual or personal development interests. What types of books do they typically read? What are their pain points, and how does your book address them?
Once you have a clear picture of your target audience, you can begin to craft content and messages that speak directly to them. This targeted approach will make your platform more appealing and relevant to the people you want to reach.
2. Build a Website or Blog
A website or blog serves as the central hub of your online platform. It’s where potential readers can learn more about you, your book, and your message. It’s also a place where you can share valuable content that positions you as an authority in your niche.
Your website should include an author bio, a description of your book, and a blog where you regularly post articles related to your book’s topic. For example, if your book is about spiritual growth, you might write blog posts about prayer, meditation, and other practices that support spiritual development.
In addition to blog posts, consider offering free resources such as eBooks, checklists, or guides that your audience can download in exchange for their email address. This will help you build an email list of potential readers who are interested in your book.
3. Leverage Social Media
Social media is a powerful tool for building a platform before your book is published. It allows you to connect with your target audience, share your message, and build a community around your book.
Choose social media platforms where your target audience is most active. For example, if your book is aimed at a younger audience, Instagram and TikTok might be the best platforms to focus on. If you’re targeting professionals or a more mature audience, LinkedIn and Facebook may be more effective.
Once you’ve chosen your platforms, start posting regularly about topics related to your book. Share insights, ask questions, and engage with your followers. Use a mix of content types, including text posts, images, videos, and live streams, to keep your audience engaged.
Don’t just focus on promoting your book—use social media to build relationships with your audience. Respond to comments, participate in discussions, and show genuine interest in your followers. The more you engage with your audience, the more invested they’ll become in your message and your book.
4. Start an Email Newsletter
An email newsletter is one of the most effective ways to build a platform before your book is published. It allows you to communicate directly with your audience and keep them updated on your progress, upcoming events, and book launch details.
Start by creating a signup form on your website or blog, and offer an incentive for people to join your email list. This could be a free eBook, a discount on your book when it’s released, or access to exclusive content.
In your newsletters, share behind-the-scenes updates on your writing process, insights related to your book’s topic, and tips or advice that your audience will find valuable. Use your newsletter to build anticipation for your book launch by sharing snippets of your book, announcing the cover reveal, and offering pre-order opportunities.
Consistency is key when it comes to email newsletters. Aim to send out regular updates, whether it’s weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. The goal is to keep your audience engaged and excited about your book.
5. Network with Influencers and Bloggers
Connecting with influencers, bloggers, and other authors in your niche can help you expand your reach and build credibility before your book is published. These individuals already have established platforms and audiences that may be interested in your book.
Reach out to influencers and bloggers who share your target audience and offer to collaborate. This could involve guest blogging, podcast interviews, social media takeovers, or joint webinars. By partnering with others in your niche, you can tap into their audience and introduce your book to potential readers.
When reaching out, be sure to offer value in return. This could be in the form of promoting their work to your audience, offering to contribute content to their platform, or providing them with a free copy of your book once it’s published.
6. Speak at Events and Webinars
Speaking at events, conferences, and webinars is a great way to build your platform and establish yourself as an expert in your field. Look for opportunities to speak on topics related to your book, whether in-person or online.
When you speak at an event, you have the chance to connect with potential readers and showcase your expertise. Be sure to mention your upcoming book and direct people to your website or social media for more information.
If you’re hosting your own webinars, use them as an opportunity to share valuable insights from your book and build your email list. At the end of the webinar, encourage attendees to join your email list or follow you on social media to stay updated on your book launch.
7. Gather Testimonials and Endorsements
Testimonials and endorsements from respected individuals in your field can add credibility to your book and help you build your platform before it’s published. Reach out to colleagues, mentors, or influencers in your niche and ask if they’d be willing to read an advance copy of your book and provide a testimonial.
These endorsements can be featured on your website, social media, and book cover to build trust and interest among potential readers. When asking for testimonials, be sure to provide a clear and concise summary of your book, along with any specific points you’d like them to address in their endorsement.
8. Create a Pre-Launch Marketing Plan
As your book’s publication date approaches, it’s time to create a pre-launch marketing plan to build momentum and excitement. This plan should outline the steps you’ll take in the weeks leading up to your book launch, including:
- Teaser Campaigns: Share snippets, cover reveals, and other teasers on social media to build anticipation.
- Pre-Order Campaigns: Offer exclusive bonuses or discounts for readers who pre-order your book.
- Book Launch Events: Plan virtual or in-person events to celebrate your book launch and engage with your audience.
- Content Countdown: Share blog posts, videos, or social media content that ties into your book’s theme, counting down to the release date.
By having a well-structured pre-launch marketing plan, you’ll be able to generate buzz and ensure that your book reaches as many potential readers as possible.
Conclusion
Building a platform before your book is published is essential for ensuring its success. By understanding your target audience, creating a website or blog, leveraging social media, starting an email newsletter, networking with influencers, speaking at events, gathering testimonials, and creating a pre-launch marketing plan, you’ll be well on your way to building a strong platform that will support your book launch and beyond.