One of the biggest challenges that authors and publishers face is building a solid following. A following is a group of dedicated readers that consume material on a regular basis. These dedicated followers will comprise your core group of fans. This group is known as your “tribe.” Your tribe will provide you with the foundation you need to generate regular income while ensuring you produce sustained organic growth.
In this article, we are going to explore three effective ways you can use to build a following while ensuring that you have a dedicated tribe. At the end of the day, your tribe will provide you with the foundation you need for a successful publishing venture.
Add Value to Your Followers’ Lives
Successful authors and publishers build a loyal following when they consistently add value to their readers’ lives. Value can come in any number of ways. Mainly, building a following is about providing readers with the information they can utilize in their daily lives. Moreover, adding value is about giving your readers a clear insight into how that information has made you into the successful person you are. Otherwise, you run the risk of your material missing the mark.
Connect with your Followers
Authors and publishers make themselves reasonably available as much as they can. Now, this doesn’t mean that you need to answer the phone 24/7. To build a following, you can connect with your readers in the following ways:
- Leverage social media as much as possible. Look for the platforms where your followers mostly hang out and engage them there.
- Create a WhatsApp group. WhatsApp is a powerful way to connect with your followers regularly. You can build a substantial following in a short period.
- Exploit your website. Once you build a following on social media, ask your followers to check out your website. Encourage them to sign up to your mailing list by offering freebies that only subscribers can gain access to.
Lots of authors like to hold webinars and Zoom chats with their audience every so often. This type of contact is recommended, especially when you’re looking to get input and feedback from your audience. Some authors love to take fans’ questions regarding their interest in their content.
Offer Support to your Followers
When you build a following, your reader might reach out to you asking for your support. You can do so by sharing your insights on the most common questions your readers ask. For instance, comments on your publications can provide you with the material you need to address questions and concerns from your audience. Don’t be afraid to shout out to individuals who frequently comment. This type of recognition will encourage others to actively participate.
Please bear in mind that your readers look to you to provide them with value through your work. So, don’t be afraid to go the extra mile. Authors can build a loyal following by supporting their readers as much as they can.
