Developing Your Author Image

You want to be taken seriously as an author, so it’s up to you to make sure that your website, blog and social networking profiles reflect a professional image. How do you achieve this? Using appropriate colors, font size and of course, content. Remember, you never know who’s looking. Your next viewer might be your next potential client, an agent or a business owner looking for a great writer. First impressions count; they can mean the difference between success and failure. 

Watch out for content that contains too much personal information. Such information can interfere with the persona you’re trying to create. Yes, you want your book readers to get to know you, but does it really matter if you like classical or metal? Is it a good idea to let the world know that you spend hours watching Sponge Bob every week? Keep it professional.

Promote yourself without getting too personal. Avoid content that may seem (in any way) off-putting or offensive to anyone. That goes for content that may have a negative effect on your career.

Business cards are easy to make and distribute today. Keep a stack of cards available to hand out at readings, events at bookstores or any other function you can use to promote your work. Look and act like a professional. If you want people to take you seriously, you need to take yourself seriously. Dress the part. Always put your best foot forward.

Regardless of how you decide to promote yourself or market your work, maintain a professional image. Be approachable but avoid giving out too much personal information or overdoing website colors, font styles and inclusion of personal photos or other items. The idea behind marketing and promotion for an author is to get your name and your work out there. Focus on that, not your favorite movies or television shows or music style. Make an impact – the right way.