Growing A Social Media Presence As A New Writer.

If you’ve ever stared at your phone wondering what in the world to post next, you’re not alone. That’s exactly where I found myself this week when the title for this blog post popped into my head.

I have to be honest…it isn’t my favorite thing to do.

I made a reel once that said,
“I got into writing because I love public speaking, constant visibility, & sharing my face online. Said no writer ever.”
(Here it is, for your viewing pleasure.)

It’s so true! You’ve probably heard that the vast majority of writers are introverts, and that’s certainly true for me.

I’d rather iron a bedsheet than speak in front of anyone, and I hate ironing with the passion of a thousand suns.

Why Social Media Matters for Writers

But anymore, social media is that new job skill we all need to learn. It is one of the best ways to connect with readers and fellow writers, so we push past the cringe and do it anyway.

Experienced writers (including my writing coach) have confirmed that your social media presence, whether Instagram, Facebook, or your own author’s website, is often the first thing an editor or publisher will check, even before they read your manuscript.

That tells me how important this is.

So How Do We Get It Right?

If you’ll allow me, I’d love to share a few things I’ve learned so far on this journey of social media as a new writer.

1. You’re Not Alone

First, remind yourself you are not alone. You’re not the only one creating reels, stories or updating your website and feeling goofy while doing it, reluctant to put your face on the open internet.

You don’t want to be left in the dust, or the dark ages, while other writers are doing what is necessary to get their name, their brand, and their books out there.

Will you fade into oblivion if you make no effort at all on your social media presence? I can’t answer that. But time will most definitely tell.

2. You’ve Already Done the Hardest Thing

Second, if you’re going to put in all the hard work of writing a book, with the hope of one day seeing it published and sitting on the shelves of your local bookstore, then you’re likely going to need to evolve with the industry and take the next step to learn social media.

I know, it can be uncomfortable to talk to your phone like people are listening, when in fact, no one is.

Yet.

And learning any new skill can be daunting at first.

But practice makes perfect. I promise.

Believe it or not, I can remember life before cell phones, the internet, Instagram, and the need to create scroll-stopping content. (Which I am still trying to master.)

I had NO idea how to create a website, much less what to put on it. I took it step by step and gave myself the room to make mistakes and learn as I went along. It’s still very much a work in progress, but it’s up and running, and that’s a huge win in my book.

(If you’d like to take a look, it’s angelamariabooks.com)

3. Show Up Anyway

I keep showing up every day not because I have to, but because I intend to give my writing my all, and at the moment, that includes social media.

So, finally, if you stare at your phone or computer wondering where to even start with this whole online presence thing, know that you are not alone.

Don’t be afraid to check YouTube for quick tutorials on how to create an Instagram or Facebook reel. Or Google how to create your online presence or how to create a website, and don’t be overwhelmed by all the information.

Take it in bite size pieces and learn one aspect at a time.

If all else fails, find a teenager and ask them for help. After a little teasing about living in the Stone Ages (like I was!), I’m sure they will be glad to help.

Final Thoughts

What is your take on all of this?

Leave a comment on the “Contact” page, I’m so curious to hear your thoughts.

Like it or hate it, it seems to be the reality we’re living in today.

Any writer worth his or her salt has a website and likely an Instagram, Facebook, or X (formerly known as Twitter) account too.

If you find it daunting, don’t let that stop you.

After all, you’re already doing something bold and brave by writing a book. And that is NOT an easy feat.

Why not invite the world to watch it unfold?

Happy Writing!