20. Building Relationships with Readers – Your Fanbase

Foster a loyal reader community that will support your writing career for years to come

As an author, your readers are your most valuable asset. They are the ones who support your work, spread the word about your books, and often become lifelong fans - even, potentially, friends (yes, this has happened to me several times).

In an age where interactions can often feel impersonal, establishing meaningful relationships with your readers can set you apart. By investing time and effort into engaging with your audience, you can create a loyal fanbase that not only supports your current work but eagerly anticipates your future projects. Here are some effective techniques for building relationships with your readers.

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1. Engage on Social Media

Social media platforms offer authors a unique opportunity to connect with their readers directly. Choose the platforms that resonate most with your audience, whether it’s Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok, and begin engaging.

• Be Authentic: Share glimpses of your writing process, personal stories, and even your struggles. Authenticity helps readers feel connected to you as a person, not just as an author.

• Respond to Comments: Take the time to respond to comments and messages. A simple acknowledgement can make a reader feel valued and appreciated.

• Host Q&A Sessions: Use features like Instagram Stories or Facebook Live to host Q&A sessions. This invites readers to ask questions about your writing, your books, or even your personal interests.

Ultimately, select one or maybe two platforms to spend your time on - for me it’s Facebook that gets most of my activity.

2. Create a Newsletter

An email newsletter is an excellent way to keep your readers informed about your work while fostering a sense of community. This is, I think, one of the most important tools you can utilise.