As an editor who’s seen countless manuscripts cross my desk, I can tell you one thing with absolute certainty: the key for writers, whether self-published or traditionally published, is building your audience. It’s not just about writing a great book—it’s about creating a community of readers who are excited to hear from you, who feel seen and heard through your words. Success hinges on connection, and that starts with showing up authentically and vulnerably. Let’s lean into that process together and talk about how to build a readership with courage and heart.

The Heart of It: Building a Community

Your book is a piece of your soul, a story or idea you’re daring to share with the world. But for it to land, you need people who are ready to receive it. That starts long before your book hits the shelves. It’s about showing up and inviting others into your journey. Share snippets of your work on social media, in newsletters, or with a writing group. Let people peek behind the curtain. When you’re vulnerable enough to share your rough drafts, your fears, your wins, you’re not just building an audience—you’re building trust. And trust? That’s what turns readers into buyers, cheerleaders, and lifelong fans.

What Publishers Want: A Partner in the Arena

If you’re pitching to traditional publishers, they’re not just looking at your manuscript—they’re looking at you. They want a partner who’s willing to step into the arena, to show up with courage and a plan. Here’s what they’re hoping to see, straight from an editor’s perspective:

A Website That Tells Your Story

Your website doesn’t need to be a dazzling, high-budget production. It just needs to be you. A place where readers and publishers can feel your heart, learn your story, and see what you’re about. Work with a designer to make it easy to find—SEO is your friend here. When someone Googles your name and your site pops up, that’s a moment of connection. It’s like saying, “I’m here, and I’m ready to share my work with the world.”

Real Connections in the Writing World

You don’t have to know everyone in the industry, but showing you’re part of a community matters. Join a group like ACFW, Word Weavers, or AWSA. These aren’t just networking opportunities—they’re places to find your people, to share your struggles and dreams. You don’t need a list of big-name endorsers in your proposal. What matters is that you’re building relationships and growing alongside others. That’s where the magic happens.

A Newsletter That Feels Like a Conversation

An active newsletter or blog is your chance to talk directly to your readers. You don’t need thousands of subscribers to make an impact—just a handful of people who are excited to hear from you. Right now, the industry loves a newsletter that feels like a warm, honest chat. Share stories, insights, or a sneak peek at your work. When your readers feel like they’re part of your journey, they’ll show up for you when your book launches.

Speaking Your Truth

For nonfiction writers, speaking engagements can amplify your voice. Publishers want to know how many people you’ll reach through talks or workshops next year. It’s not about being a rock-star speaker—it’s about showing you’re a trusted voice on your topic. Every time you share your message, you’re building credibility and connection. That’s powerful.

Showing Up on Social Media

Pick one or two platforms where you feel at home—maybe it’s Instagram, maybe it’s Twitter—and show up consistently. Share your heart, your process, your quirks. It’s not about going viral; it’s about being real. When you engage authentically, you build a community that’s ready to cheer for you.

Self-Publishing and Traditional: Same Heart, Different Paths

Whether you’re self-publishing or chasing a traditional deal, the core is the same: connection. Self-published authors, you’ve got the freedom to build your audience your way, but it takes the same courage to show up consistently. Traditional publishers want to see that you’ve already started that work, that you’re ready to partner with them. Either way, it’s about putting yourself out there, even when it feels scary.

The Courage to Begin

Building an audience isn’t about perfection. It’s about sharing your story and inviting others in. Create a website that feels like you. Join a writing community where you can grow. Write newsletters that spark connection. Speak your truth. Engage online with heart. As an editor, I can tell you that every step you take toward building your audience is a step toward a community that’s ready to embrace your book. Your readers are waiting.