Writing a book is a major endeavor that many people tackle with impressive dedication and perseverance. Sadly, few authors carry through with equally important tasks such as book publicity and building an author brand. With today’s crowded book market, gaining publicity and visibility is essential for a book’s success. Marketing and branding are two of the most valuable assets in achieving this. Author branding serves as personal PR, helping you earn greater respect and trust from the media and the public. These factors can directly contribute to better book sales.

Almost everything yields better results when backed by a plan, and author branding is no different. Start by defining your objectives, then take regular, consistent steps to reach them. Publicity professionals recommend engaging in daily, weekly, and monthly activities that support your aims. These might involve blogging, participating in media interviews, or writing bylined articles to increase your visibility. Every author is different, so your most effective approach will be unique to you. The key is to carefully consider your strategy and take the necessary actions, allowing your progress to build gradually.

Author branding is highly valuable for novelists who achieve recognition and fame in a particular genre, but nonfiction authors benefit just as much. Books increase your personal visibility and income, and with a clear brand, you attract readers who want to engage with your future work. Writing your first book means starting from zero, but with one or two books and a solid reputation, your brand helps drive sales of future titles. Your brand also signals to the media and others what you represent and where your skills lie, making it easier to access new opportunities – and they will pay valuable dividends for years.

One of the greatest advantages of personal publicity is its longevity. Publicity for a book typically peaks during its launch and lasts a few weeks, but personal PR can continue indefinitely once you’re recognized as a trusted and valuable media source. The more visible you become, the easier it is to successfully launch new books in the future. This leads to a strong public profile that supports you and your writing career for years to come. It’s also a compelling reason why many professionals write books—to increase their publicity and open new promotional doors.