5 Things Every Author Should Be Doing on Social Media (Even If You Hate Social Media)

Let’s be honest: most authors didn’t start writing books because they dreamed of creating Instagram reels or crafting captions.

Yet today, social media can play a meaningful role in how readers discover new books and connect with authors. The good news? You don’t need to be everywhere, post constantly, or become a marketing expert overnight.

You just need a simple, sustainable approach.

Here are five things every author should be doing on social media, even if you’d rather be writing.

1. Pick One Platform (and Commit to It)

You don’t need to show up on every platform. In fact, trying to do too much is one of the fastest ways to burn out.

Instead, choose one platform that feels manageable and aligns with your audience:

• Love visuals? Try a photo-based platform.

• Prefer writing? A text-forward space might suit you better.

• Comfortable on camera? Short videos could work.

Commit to showing up consistently in one place before expanding elsewhere. Even one thoughtful post per week is far better than sporadic bursts across multiple platforms.

Remember: consistency beats volume every time.

2. Share the Process, Not Just the Product

Many authors only post when they have something to sell. But readers don’t just want to see your book- they want to see you.

Try sharing:

• A peek into your writing routine

• A favorite quote from your current project

• A photo of your workspace

• What inspired your story or characters

• A small win (finished a chapter? submitted edits?)

Behind-the-scenes content builds connection and keeps your audience engaged long before launch day.

3. Talk With People, Not At Them

Social media is called “social” for a reason.

Instead of treating it like a billboard, use it like a conversation:

• Respond to comments

• Thank readers who share your posts

• Follow other authors and engage with their content

• Ask simple questions (What are you reading right now?)

These small interactions build genuine relationships- and relationships are what turn casual followers into loyal readers.

4. Reuse Your Content (Yes, Really)

If you’ve written a blog, newsletter, or book description, you already have social media content.

Repurpose what you’ve created:

• Turn a paragraph into a post

• Pull out a quote and share it as text or an image

• Summarize a blog into 2–3 short posts

• Share snippets from your author bio or book jacket

You don’t need to reinvent the wheel every time you post. Smart marketing is about working smarter, not harder.

5. Be Yourself- That’s Your Superpower

You don’t have to be trendy, overly polished, or perfectly on-brand.

Readers connect with authenticity.

If you’re thoughtful, be thoughtful.
If you’re funny, be funny.
If you’re quiet and reflective, let that shine.

Your voice is what makes your work unique. Let it show.

A Final Thought

Social media doesn’t have to be overwhelming or time-consuming. With a focused approach, a bit of consistency, and a willingness to show up as yourself, it can become a powerful tool for building community around your work.

Start small. Stay genuine. And remember, every post is simply an invitation for readers to get to know you better.

Ready to take the next step with your author marketing?
If you’d like support with social media, email marketing, or promoting your book, feel free to reach out to me directly. I’m always happy to help authors find simple, sustainable ways to grow their audience and share their stories.

Contact me anytime at kcressman@sunburypress.com.