Darla G. Denton | Author Platform Coach

If you want your book to succeed, there are a few author platform mistakes you definitely don’t want to make.

You’ve spent so much time writing your book, crafting vivid characters, building a world readers can escape into, and obsessing over every sentence until it’s just right. But if no one knows your book exists, they won’t read it.

That’s where your author platform comes in. And before you roll your eyes and think, Ugh, another thing to add to my to-do list, hear me out. This isn’t about boring marketing tactics or spending hours making TikToks.

Your platform is just how readers find you, connect with you, and—yes—buy your book. And the stronger that connection, the easier everything else becomes.

But a lot of new authors make mistakes that slow them down before they even get started.

• Some wait too long, convinced they should focus on writing first and worry about the platform later.
• Others try to be everywhere at once, bouncing between Instagram, TikTok, and whatever platform is trending this week—without a real plan.
• And some go full-on sales mode, constantly pushing their book instead of actually connecting with readers.

The good news? These mistakes are easy to fix.

Let’s go over the six biggest author platform mistakes, and more importantly, how to avoid them. A few smart tweaks, and you’ll be on your way to building a platform that actually works for you, instead of feeling like another chore.

Does this whole author platform thing still feel overwhelming? Don’t worry, I’ve got you. My Platform Jumpstart Package is designed to help new authors build a solid foundation with a brand, website, and social media strategy. Because the last thing you need is to waste time spinning your wheels when you could be building real connections with readers.

Mistake #1: Not Defining Your Author Brand

Let’s be real, branding sounds like something big corporations worry about, not something authors need, right?

But here’s the truth: your author brand is what makes you stand out.

It tells readers what to expect from your books and helps them remember you.

Too many new authors skip this step, thinking they’ll figure it out later.

The problem? Without a clear brand, your platform feels scattered, forgettable, and… kind of invisible.

If readers don’t recognize your name or know what kind of stories you write, they’re not going to follow you, or buy your books.

But when you do have a strong brand? You build trust, attract the right readers, and create a loyal audience that keeps coming back for more.

How to Fix It

Branding doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Just follow these three simple steps to create an author brand that feels natural, consistent, and unforgettable.

Step 1: Find Your Unique Voice

Your voice is what makes you, you. It’s the combination of your writing style, the themes you explore, and the emotions you evoke in your readers. Ask yourself:

• What genre(s) do I write?
• What themes keep showing up in my stories?
• How do I want readers to feel when they read my books?

Maybe your books are dark and suspenseful. Maybe they’re lighthearted and full of humor. Defining your unique voice helps you create a brand that feels authentic, not forced. unique voice will help you create a brand that feels authentic to you.

Step 2: Create a Simple Branding Statement

A branding statement is like your personal tagline, it sums up what you write and who it’s for in one sentence. Use this formula:

“I write [genre] books that [unique element] for readers who [ideal audience].”

Here are a few examples:

• I write cozy mysteries with humor and heart for readers who love amateur sleuths with a knack for trouble.
• I write heartwarming second-chance romances for readers who believe in happily-ever-afters.

This little sentence gives your website, social media, and marketing a clear focus. When readers see the same message across platforms, they’ll instantly get what you’re about.

Step 3: Stay Consistent Across All Platforms

Your brand should be instantly recognizable across your website, social media, and emails. Here’s how to keep it cohesive:

• Colors & Fonts: Pick a few that reflect your style and use them consistently.
• Messaging: Keep your bio and book descriptions similar on all platforms.
• Profile Photo: Use a professional or high-quality image so readers recognize you.

When readers see the same visuals, tone, and messaging everywhere, they start to trust you. And trust? That’s what turns casual followers into lifelong fans.ge everywhere, they will remember you. Consistency builds trust, and trust is what turns casual followers into loyal fans.

Need help putting it all together? My Author Branding Package walks you through the process step by step—so you can create a brand that’s clear, compelling, and completely you.

Related Reading: Defining Your Author Brand: A Beginner’s Guide for 2025

Mistake #2: Ignoring Your Author Website

A lot of new authors assume they can build their entire platform on social media. They set up an Instagram, fire off a few tweets, and maybe even experiment with TikTok. But when it comes to a website? They put it off, thinking they don’t need one until they have a book to sell.

Big mistake.

Social media platforms are unpredictable. Algorithms change, engagement drops, and worst-case scenario, your account could get restricted or even deleted overnight. If your entire author platform exists on borrowed space, you’re always playing by someone else’s rules.

That’s why you need a website.

Your website is the only space online that you fully control. It’s your digital home base, a place where readers, agents, and publishers can always find you. Without one, you risk losing credibility, visibility, and direct access to your audience.

If you don’t have a website yet, now is the time to fix that.

How to Fix It

Creating an author website doesn’t have to be expensive, complicated, or time-consuming. You can start small and build as you grow. Here’s how:

Step 1: Set Up a Simple One-Page Website

No need for a fancy, multi-page site right away. A simple one-page website is enough to get started. Here’s what it should include:

• Your Bio – A short, engaging intro about who you are and what you write.
• Contact Info – Make it easy for readers, bloggers, and publishers to reach you.
• Email Sign-Up Form – Even if you don’t have a book yet, start collecting emails now. Your email list will be gold when it’s time to launch.

Step 2: Use an Easy Website Builder

You don’t need to hire a web developer or learn to code. These easy-to-use platforms will help you create a professional-looking site in no time:

• Wix – Drag-and-drop simplicity, great for beginners.
• Squarespace – Sleek, modern templates perfect for branding.
• WordPress – More customization options, ideal for long-term growth.

Each of these platforms has templates designed specifically for authors—pick one that fits your style and start building.

Step 3: Make It Reader-Friendly

Once your site is live, add a few key elements to make it engaging and useful:

• An “About the Author” Page – Share your writing journey and what readers can expect from you.
• Newsletter Sign-Up Form – The earlier you start collecting emails, the better. Your email list is your audience, no algorithms required.
• Links to Your Social Media – Make it easy for readers to find and follow you on different platforms.

Your website should feel welcoming, simple, and easy to navigate. The goal? When a reader lands on your page, they immediately know who you are and how to stay connected.

A website isn’t just for selling books, it’s for building your brand, on your terms. And that? That’s what will set you up for long-term success.

Your website is the one online space you truly own, and it’s a key part of your author platform. Need help creating a site that’s both reader-friendly and effective? I’ve got you covered. Check out my website strategy services!

Related Reading: Author Platform: What It Is & Why You Need One

Mistake #3: Waiting Too Long to Start an Email List

Think you don’t need an email list until after you publish your book? Think again.

A lot of new authors put off building their list, assuming it’s something to figure out later. But waiting too long means missing out on potential fans before your book even launches. By the time you’re ready to publish, you’ll be scrambling to find readers instead of having an eager audience already waiting for your book.

Your email list is the only direct line of communication you fully control. Unlike social media, where algorithms decide who sees your posts, emails land straight in your readers’ inboxes. If you’re not collecting emails early, you’re leaving valuable connections (and book sales) on the table.

The sooner you start, the easier it will be to market your book, build relationships with readers, and create long-term success as an author.

How to Fix It

Building an email list doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Just follow these three simple steps.

Step 1: Sign Up for an Email Marketing Service

You need an email platform to collect, organize, and communicate with your readers. Here are some great options for authors:

• Mailchimp – Free for up to 500 subscribers, perfect for beginners.
• Kit – Designed for creators, with powerful automation tools.
• MailerLite – Affordable, user-friendly, and great for growing lists.

These tools let you send newsletters, set up automated emails, and engage with your audience without spending hours managing it. newsletters, and engage with your audience, all without spending hours managing it.

Step 2: Offer a Freebie to Encourage Sign-Ups

People won’t sign up for your email list just because you ask them to. They need a reason. The best way to grow your list? Offer a lead magnet, something valuable that makes them want to subscribe.

Here are a few ideas:

• A free short story
• A sample chapter from your upcoming book
• A writing guide, checklist, or exclusive content related to your genre

Think about what your ideal reader would love to receive. The more enticing your freebie, the faster your list will grow.

Step 3: Make Your Sign-Up Form Easy to Find

Once your list is set up, make it easy for readers to find. Add your sign-up form:

• On your website – Place it on your homepage, blog, and in your website footer.
• On social media – Link it in your Instagram bio, Facebook page, and Twitter/X profile.
• In your email signature – Every email you send is an opportunity to grow your list.

The more places you promote your list, the faster it will grow. grow.

Not sure how to set up or grow your list? My Platform Jumpstart Package includes an email marketing strategy designed specifically for authors, so you can start building your audience now instead of playing catch-up later.

Mistake #4: Trying to Be Everywhere on Social Media

Social media is a powerful tool for building your author platform, but only if you use it strategically. Too many new authors try to do everything at once. They set up accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Pinterest, thinking they need to be everywhere to reach readers.

The problem? It’s exhausting.

Without a clear strategy, managing multiple platforms quickly becomes overwhelming. Instead of creating meaningful engagement, you spread yourself too thin, struggle to keep up, and end up frustrated with little to show for your efforts.

Here’s the truth: You don’t need to be everywhere. You just need to be where your readers are and show up consistently.

How to Fix It

The key to social media success? Focus, consistency, and engagement. Here’s how to make the most of it, without burning out.

Step 1: Choose 1-2 Platforms That Fit Your Genre

Not all social media platforms work the same way, and not all of them will be the right fit for you. Instead of trying to be active on every platform, choose one or two where your ideal readers already spend time.

Here’s a general guide:

Fiction Authors

• Instagram – Great for visually engaging content, bookstagrammers, and writing updates.
• TikTok – The #BookTok community is huge for authors, especially in romance, fantasy, and YA.

Nonfiction Authors

• LinkedIn – Perfect for networking, establishing credibility, and sharing expertise.
• Facebook – Great for building community and engaging in deeper discussions.

Pick the platforms where you feel comfortable, where your readers are most active, and where you can show up consistently.

Step 2: Post Consistently (3-4 Times Per Week)

Random posting won’t help you build an audience. Instead, create a simple content plan to keep things organized and engaging.

What to Post?

• Behind-the-scenes looks at your writing process
• Writing tips, book recommendations, or industry insights
• Questions and polls to encourage reader interaction
• Personal updates to make your platform feel authentic

Pro Tip: Batch your content ahead of time to stay stress-free and consistent. ahead of time can save you stress and help you stay consistent.

Step 3: Engage Daily (Even If You Don’t Post Daily)

Social media isn’t just about posting, it’s about building relationships. The most successful authors don’t just talk at their audience; they connect with them.

Here’s how to stay active without spending hours online:

Spend just 10-15 minutes a day:

• Reply to comments & messages – Make your readers feel heard.
• Use relevant hashtags – Helps new readers discover your posts.
• Join conversations – Participate in book discussions, author chats, and trending topics. minutes a day engaging with readers can make a big difference in how fast your audience grows.

Need help developing a strategy that works for you? My social media coaching services can guide you step-by-step so you can build an engaged readership without the stress.

Related Reading: Must Have 18 Author Platform Tools for Simplifying Your Writing Life

Mistake #5: Over-Promoting Instead of Engaging

Of course, you want to sell books. That’s the goal, right? But if all you do is promote, readers will start tuning you out faster than you can say, “Available now on Amazon!”

Nothing makes people scroll past quicker than another post screaming, “Buy my book!” Readers follow authors because they feel connected, to their stories, their personalities, and their journey. If you don’t build relationships first, you won’t build a loyal audience. And without an engaged audience, selling books gets way harder.

Here’s the truth: The key to selling more books isn’t more promotion—it’s more engagement.

Readers buy from authors they know, like, and trust. When they feel a real connection with you, they want to support your work.

How to Fix It

If you want to sell books without coming across as pushy, focus on building relationships first. Here’s how to strike the right balance:

Step 1: Follow the 80/20 Rule

A good content rule of thumb:

• 80% engaging, valuable content
• 20% promotional content

That means if you post 10 times, only 2 should be directly about your book. The rest? They should entertain, inspire, or connect with your audience.ly about your book. The rest should be engaging, entertaining, or inspiring your audience.

Step 2: Share Your Writing Journey

Instead of constantly saying, “Buy my book!”, let readers into your world. Share the behind-the-scenes moments, the highs, the struggles, and the creative process.

• Work-in-Progress Updates – Share snippets of what you’re writing.
• Behind-the-Scenes Stories – What inspired a certain character or scene?
• A Day in the Life of a Writer – Readers love seeing how writers work.

When you let readers be part of your journey, they become emotionally invested in your work. And that? That leads to more interest and more book sales, without you even having to ask.

Step 3: Ask Readers Questions & Start Conversations

Social media isn’t just a place to post, it’s a place to connect. Instead of just talking at your audience, talk with them.

Try asking:

• What book are you reading right now?
• Who’s your favorite fictional character of all time?
• If you could have coffee with any author, who would it be?

These types of posts spark real discussions, boost engagement, and build relationships. And the more readers interact with you, the more they’ll remember and support you when your book is ready.

Marketing your books shouldn’t feel overwhelming, it should feel natural and authentic. My coaching services help authors craft engagement-driven strategies that attract and retain readers. Let’s find the best approach for you—schedule a consultation today!

Mistake #6: Not Networking with Other Writers

Writing feels like a solo journey, but building your author platform shouldn’t be. Too many new authors try to go it alone, not realizing that connections are one of the biggest keys to success.

Here’s the truth: the most successful authors aren’t just great writers, they’re part of a strong, supportive community.

If you’re not networking with other writers, you’re missing out on valuable opportunities, collaborations, and insider knowledge. Writing groups, author partnerships, and networking events can boost your visibility and open doors you didn’t even know existed.

Think of it this way: It’s not just about what you know—it’s about who you know.

Building relationships with fellow writers can lead to:

• Beta reading exchanges (so you get fresh eyes on your work)
• Cross-promotion (where you help promote each other’s books)
• Guest blogging & podcast invites (to expand your audience)
• Publishing & marketing insights (so you don’t have to figure it all out alone)

How to Fix It

You don’t have to navigate the writing world alone. Here’s how to start networking and building meaningful connections today.

Step 1: Join Writing Groups & Online Communities

One of the easiest ways to network is to find your people. Writing groups are filled with authors who share resources, give feedback, and support each other.

Where to Join?

• Facebook Groups – Search for “writing groups for authors” or “book marketing groups.”
• BlueSky (#AuthorSky) – Follow and interact with other writers.
• Reddit (r/writing, r/selfpublish) – Join discussions and ask questions.
• Discord & Slack Groups – Some writing communities have private chat spaces for deeper conversations.

These groups are goldmines for networking, learning, and support. Don’t just lurk, engage, ask questions, and contribute!

Step 2: Engage With Other Authors

Networking isn’t just about joining groups, it’s about participating. Instead of just promoting your own work, focus on building real relationships.

• Comment on posts & discussions – Offer encouragement & share insights.
• Collaborate on guest blogs, podcasts, or social media takeovers – This expands your reach and boosts your credibility.
• Cross-promote – Share another author’s book or content (and they might return the favor).

The more you support other writers, the more likely they’ll support you in return.

Step 3: Attend Virtual or In-Person Writing Events

Writing conferences and workshops aren’t just for learning, they’re fantastic networking opportunities.

Where to Start?

• Virtual Writing Summits – Connect with authors and industry pros from home.
• Local Writing Groups – Check Meetup.com, your library, or writing centers for events.
• Industry Conferences – Events like Writer’s Digest Conference, 20BooksVegas, and local book fairs are great for networking.

You never know when a single conversation will lead to a game-changing opportunity.

Want to connect with a supportive author community while building your platform? I can help. Explore my coaching options and start growing your network today!

Related Reading: Author Platform Goals 2025: How to Set Achievable Goals and Grow Your Audience

Final Thoughts

Building an author platform takes time, but avoiding these common mistakes will help you grow faster and connect with the right readers. Many new authors struggle with where to start, burn out from lack of strategy, or focus too much on selling instead of engaging.

If you’ve made some of these mistakes, don’t stress. You’re not alone. Every successful author has had to learn, tweak, and adjust along the way. The good news? These mistakes are fixable.

Small, intentional changes can make a big difference in strengthening your brand, attracting loyal readers, and increasing your book’s visibility.

And the best time to start? Right now.

Whether you’re just beginning or gearing up for a book launch, taking consistent action, even small steps, will set you up for long-term success.

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. Keep showing up, keep engaging, and keep building. Your readers are out there, waiting to connect with you.

Build a Strong Author Platform with Confidence

Starting your author journey is exciting, but without a clear platform, it can be challenging to connect with readers and grow your audience. The Author Platform Jumpstart Package gives you everything you need to establish a professional and engaging online presence.

This package includes:

• New Author Website Strategy – Create a website that showcases your brand and attracts readers
• New Author Blog Strategy – Develop compelling blog content to build authority in your genre
• New Social Media Strategy – Choose the right platforms and grow an engaged audience
• Author Brand Strategy – Define your unique voice and messaging for consistency across all platforms
• Email Marketing Strategy – Start building your email list to connect directly with your readers
• Coaching Calls & Emails – Get personalized support and expert guidance every step of the way

Take the first step toward building a platform that works for you.

Share Your Thoughts and Join the Conversation

Building an author platform comes with challenges, but you are not alone. Every author’s journey is unique, and your experiences can inspire and help others in the writing community.

• Have you made any of these common author platform mistakes?
• What has been your biggest challenge in building your platform?
• What strategies have worked best for you so far?

Drop a comment below and let’s discuss. Your insights could help another writer take the next step with confidence.