– by Jana Burson
We are often asked: how important is my platform as an author?
The quick answer is that your platform is just as important as the quality of your content and concept, especially in the crowded world of book publishing today.
Most publishing houses take a three-pronged approach when reviewing proposals:
- strong and fresh concept
- stellar content and writing
- platform
If one of these three are weak or missing, it’s not likely that the proposal is going to make it through the process.
There was a time, even a decade ago, when an author’s platform didn’t carry as much weight as the quality of their concept and writing. This was before the power of social media, the change in the way people get news, and the rise of online shopping. Now publishing houses need to know there’s a proven way to reach the core buyer for an author’s message.
WHAT ARE WE TALKING ABOUT WHEN WE USE THE TERM PLATFORM?
Platform refers to your level of visibility or influence, expertise or authority on the subject matter, proof of engagement and your target audience. Editors and agents alike are looking for answers to these questions when reviewing the platform section of your proposal.
So often I hear writers say they are overwhelmed when it comes to their platform because they aren’t marketers by nature. The truth is, you don’t have to have a degree in marketing to put in the time and consistent effort to build and enhance your platform. You simply have to be true to your message and consistent in providing quality content for your followers/readers.
A WRITER SHOULD PUT AS MUCH CREATIVE EFFORT INTO DEVELOPING THEIR PLATFORM AS THEY DO IN THEIR WRITING, BECAUSE IT’S A NATURAL EXTENSION OF THEIR OVERALL MESSAGE.
Platform building is not the same for everyone and it doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a process that involves long-term strategic work and planning … much like writing!
The question is: are you willing to engage the process?
