Build A Platform

I've been reading this really great book about building a writers Platform. It's geared towards traditional book publishing but I think the info is valuable for any writer looking to grow a fan base.

The book defines a writers platform as:
"all the ways you are visible and appealing to your future, potential or actual readership. Your Platform includes your web presense, public speaking, teaching, your publication credits, and any other means you have for making yourself known to a viable readership."

I think for me, I do have an advantage when it comes to this. I've learned a lot of valuable lessons over the years promoting bands on the internet. This may give me some what of an unique approach to how I build my platform and market myself.

The book suggestion narrowing down your niche and naming your expertise as specific as possible. Punk book marketing just might be my niche. Now I just have to apply the lessons I've learned with my bands to my books and prove they can be successful.

Keep in mind that my goals are not to be a world famous Author. I'd rather have one thousand devoted fans who devour everything I put out, than have ten thousand casual run of the mill fans. This, I suppose, also narrows down my niche and expertise just a bit more.

What have you done in your past that can be useful towards your career as a writer? Take the lesson you learn from outside the self-publishing world and see how they can benefit you with in it.

Check this wonderful book out for your self. Get Known before the Book Deal - Use Your Personal Strengths to Grow an Auhtor Platform by Christina Katz