Create and Maintain an Author Brand
Building name recognition is an important goal for many authors. Successful novelists
like Stephen King have built such a name for themselves that their book titles no longer
matter as much. For example, someone would probably be more likely to say, “Have you
read the latest Stephen King book?” than they would to ask about the book by title. In
fact, many fans may buy the book without knowing the synopsis, simply because it’s by
Stephen King. In short, his brand is so strong that people believe they will get consistent
quality and a story they’ll like without knowing anything other than his name.
That kind of brand takes a lot of work to create, but it is doable with perseverance.
Building Your Brand
Emotional Connection: In order to create a successful brand, you must find a way to
emotionally connect with your readers and offer them something that they can’t get from
another author. Repeatedly offer readers work that they can connect with and feel that
they’re a part of. This builds the right kind of emotional connection that they can count
on with every one of your novels, short stories, or articles.
Consistent Quality: Providing consistent quality is an extremely important piece of
gaining your readers’ trust and keeping them coming back. Awards and accolades are a
great way to display that your writing is worth reading. Enter writing contests as often
as you can. If someone recognized in the literary world likes your work, ask them to
review it. Never underestimate the importance of writing solid work. One subpar book
or article could reduce your readers’ loyalty to your brand, so be sure to be conscious of
quality, no matter what you write.
Clear Messaging: In order for your name to be recognizable, readers have to get a clear
and consistent message, no matter where they hear about your book. Once you know
how you want to define yourself (i.e. horror fiction writer, romance novelist, etc.), make
sure you define your name in that way, no matter who you’re talking to or what you’re
writing.
Creating Brand Awareness
Building a brand is really all about connecting with people, so you’ll want people to take
notice that your name is a quality brand that provides the emotional connection they’re
looking for. Creating a buzz isn’t always easy, but it always starts with value. Don’t
market work that isn’t as great as it can be. Once you’re sure that your work is the caliber
that you want to promote, start working on publicity.
When starting out with promotion, word-of-mouth makes a world of difference. You can
create a buzz through social media, blogging, and recommendations by respected opinion
leaders (such as successful writers or book reviewers). Also, work to get airtime on local
radio and TV stations, and ask newspapers and magazines to review your book. Make

attainable goals (starting with local media as opposed to national media) and work your
way up to larger hopes.
Brands take time to build, but with consistent messaging and attention to quality, your
authors will recognize your name as a promise of writing they’ll love.
To learn more about how self-publishing can build your personal brand, visit
www.AuthorHouse.com .
HU UH