Building Your Author Platform: How to Grow a Fan Base and a Presence Online and Off

You’ve probably heard the phrase “author platform” before. And you probably know you’re supposed to build one. But exactly what is a platform and how do you go about growing it?

According to Christina Katz, author of The Prosperous Writer, “The word platform simply describes all the ways you are visible and appealing to your future, potential, or actual readership.”

That’s a good start. Another way to put it is this: The bigger your reach, the more books you are likely to sell. It’s that simple.

Authors with platforms sell books!

You might say that Bob Baker, SLPA’s past president and our September speaker, has built a platform. With 15,000+ people on his email lists, more than 525,000 YouTube channel views, nearly 17,000 Twitter and 5,500 Facebook followers, this indie author has established an online presence.

At the Sept 9 meeting Bob will cover:

• Exactly what an author platform is and why you need one
  
• His top platform-building essentials, based on 20+ years of publishing activity
  
• Your two primary platform options: use the media or be the media
  
• The four modes of online communication (and how to determine which one is right for you)
  
• How to build credibility using the “association formula”
  

Bring a pen and notebook and be prepared to do some fun, interactive exercises. After this meeting, you’ll know how to create a magnetic platform that attracts readers and will help you sell more books.

Bob Baker helps musicians, authors and creative entrepreneurs use their talents and know-how to make a living and make a difference in the world. He is the author of the highly acclaimed Guerrilla Music Marketing Handbook (which appeared in the movie The School of Rock starring Jack Black).

Bob’s other books include The Empowered Artist, The Guerrilla Guide to Book Marketing, 55 Ways to Promote and Sell Your Book on the Internet, Unleash the Artist Within, and more. Check out Bob’s free blog, podcast, video clips, and more at www.FullTimeAuthor.com and www.TheBuzzFactor.com.

Also, be sure to attend Bob’s Creative Entrepreneur Summit, where you’ll learn 7 Steps to Building a Thriving Career in the Arts. It will be held Saturday, November 14, in Webster Groves, MO. Visit http://bob-baker.com/buzz/creative-entrepreneur-summit/ for details.