Online Publicity Tips

Published June 16, 2026

By Jean Alfieri

Want to Be Recognized as an Author?

For some, the author’s life is a passionate side-hustle. For some, it’s our main gig. But either way, what it means to be a writer has evolved over the past decade. Gone is the life of seclusion, never entering the public limelight.

Whether it’s your career or hobby, the title of writer isn’t just about publication credits. To truly be recognized in this profession, you must be seen. The more frequently your name is noticed, the further your ‘reach’ in gaining new readers for your book(s).

Granted, it may take a considerable amount of energy to engage in efforts beyond the scope of your personal writing project. But each of the ideas below I have found rewarding in a different way. They may not all resonate with you, but it may be worth trying one (or three) on for size.

Seven ways to broaden your exposure.

1. Share your knowledge and experience by contributing an article to a magazine or newspaper. Some publications pay; some don’t. Typically, your short bio will be included, gaining you exposure to a new base of readers.
2. Blog interviews are an effective way to make connections and to introduce yourself to a new audience. Review their previously published material to ensure your subject is a good fit. Tailor your message and communicate how your knowledge and experience will benefit their audience.

(Note: As a paid member of PPW, you can suggest a topic and, once approved, can write a post for the PPW blog. Got a helpful craft or marketing tip to share? Let us know.)

3. Host fellow authors on your platforms. If you are a podcast host or blogger, this is a great way to provide more variety to your audience. By highlighting a new topic or genre, you may draw new listeners/viewers. (And you may learn something new too!) Promoting others is a kind and supportive way to boost your own platform.

I don’t have a podcast, but I have enjoyed being a guest on several. It’s refreshing to explore a topic or offer my perspective in a forum that can be edited and shared with others. I’m mindful to thank them for their invitation and to share the links on my social media platforms to promote the episode. You can also add it to your website’s Media page or press kit. It’s a win-win for the host and you.

4. Utilize your newsletter. If you will be running a book special, be sure to promote it to your subscribers. Announce new book releases to this group first. Even better, ask them to spread the word by sharing the news via social media links you provide. You may be surprised at how effective a simple invitation can be.

Bonus Tip: The same is true of your social media followers. They don’t want you to fail. They want you to flourish. Find a way to participate in book-bundle give-away campaigns and make more use of your lead magnet. By participating in author-group campaigns that blanket multiple social media platforms, you can significantly build your subscriber list.

5. Consider getting your name out there by participating in multi-author works like anthologies. The challenge will keep your writing skills sharp, and partnering with other authors can help build key industry relationships.

(Note – PPW publishes anthologies, and members are encouraged to submit their work for consideration. Keep an eye out for this incredible opportunity.)

6. Get more reviews. Remember those subscribers who follow you? Ask them to help others find your book by providing a review on their favorite book platform. Reviews are an author’s best friend, and many readers will help if you ask. Remember to thank them when they do.

I created a ‘thank-you’ ad (on Canva) that called out a special 5-star Amazon review I received. I also reminded readers that it only takes a couple of sentences to help others find the best, next book for them. I posted it on Facebook. Later that day, I received a text from a friend who said she intended to do an Amazon review but kept forgetting. She thanked me for the nudge to get it done, and within the hour, she did.

(Note – as a paid member of PPW, you can announce your book publication in the Sweet Success section of our newsletter. It’s a great way to share your exciting accomplishment and celebrate that key milestone.)

7. Video a short reading. There’s something special about hearing an author’s voice. Pick a chilling, pivotal, or emotionally charged scene from your book and read it to your audience on Facebook Live or record it on Zoom and share it on other social platforms. It may hook a viewer into a sale, or something else…

During Covid, I took to YouTube with my children’s stories starring my often mischievous and always adorable rescue pug named Zuggy. I dressed up my sweet girl-pug in flamboyant tutus and had her join me on camera. We had a blast, and decided to record weekly. After several months, we were invited to do a guest reading for the Humane Society.

In all this, consider your budget. Some of these ideas cost nothing or are less expensive to do than others. You may not be able to tackle it all, but you can explore.

Most of all, enjoy the journey. There’s nothing more special than being among your people, meeting readers, and sharing the experience of the event. Make it fun and SELL, SELL, SELL!

Jean Alfieri is an award-winning author, speaker, and dog fan. She finds joy in her work at the Humane Society and in the lives of her adopted dogs. She is an avid proponent for the adoption of all dogs: pure or mixed breeds, big or small, young or “vintage” (her preference). Jean and her husband joke that although they pay the mortgage of their home in Colorado, it’s really the dogs’ house. More at: www.DogAuthor.com