Feeling Invisible as a New Author? You’re Not Alone.
If you’ve published (or are about to publish) your first book and feel like you’re shouting into the void, this post is for you.
Here’s the truth: You don’t need 10,000 followers to start building an impactful author platform. What you need is a clear, sustainable system—and that’s what we’re outlining today.
This guide uses the Author Visibility Method and the OTTO Framework (One Topic, Three Offers) to help you start from zero in 2024 and grow with confidence.
🎯 Step 1: Define Your Author Identity
- What genre(s) do you write?
- What themes or experiences make your stories meaningful?
- Who is your ideal reader—and why will they love your work?
Your platform is not about selling books—it’s about building connection around your message.
🌐 Step 2: Set Up a Simple, Searchable Home Base
Your author website is your online home. In 2025, it doesn’t have to be complicated.
What you need:
- A homepage with your photo, mission, and book(s)
- A free lead magnet offer to grow your email list
- A blog or resources page to improve search visibility
Bonus: Use WordPress + ConvertKit for a beginner-friendly, low-maintenance setup.
📥 Step 3: Create a Reader Magnet (Lead Magnet)
If you want to build a list, give readers a reason to join. Great ideas include:
- Free first chapter
- Character cheat sheet
- Behind-the-scenes bonus scene
- Mini workbook based on your nonfiction
Deliver your lead magnet with an email sequence that builds trust and gives value.
🗓️ Step 4: Publish Weekly Content with Purpose
You don’t need to be on every platform. Start with one of these content formats:
- 📝 Blog posts (great for SEO + Pinterest)
- 🎥 YouTube Shorts (great for nonfiction and genre fiction)
- 📌 Pinterest (searchable visibility that grows over time)
Use OTTO to plan one pillar topic, three lead magnets or mini offers, and consistent weekly content that links back to your platform.
📈 Step 5: Build Trust Before the Next Launch
Before your next book comes out, you’ll want to:
- Warm up your email list with storytelling emails
- Use past content to generate launch buzz (repurpose!)
- Invite readers to a private ARC or street team
Audience = people who care. And you can start building that right now.
📥 Free Resource: Author Platform Starter Kit
Download the Author Platform Starter Kit for templates, branding worksheets, and email scripts to help you get started with confidence in 2024.
You don’t need to go viral. You just need to get visible—strategically, consistently, and in your own voice.